8 Day Mountain Bike Epirus Tour

Total Duration

• 8 Days

Full description

Immerse yourself in the breathtaking beauty of mountainous Greece with our 8-day Mountain Bike Tour. Prepare to explore the legendary Zagorochoria, a hidden gem tucked away in the rich mountains of the Epirus Range. This untouched region is a surprising revelation, showcasing the rugged beauty of the Pindos mountain range, often referred to as the “spine of Greece.”

Embark on an unforgettable adventure as you traverse a vast complex of mountains, peaks, plateaus, valleys, and gorges. Experience the thrill of crossing the imposing Vikos Gorge, one of Greece’s most remarkable natural wonders. Enjoy the blissful sensation of a cool breeze, even during the summertime, beneath the majestic Greek blue sky. Discover picturesque small villages, indulge in delicious homemade meals, and engage with the friendly locals, revealing the lesser-known yet unique side of Greece. Our Mountain Bike Tour, starting from the village of Samarina and concluding at Ioannina Airport, is tailor-made for active travelers seeking an authentic and exhilarating experience.

Activities / Schedule:

Day 1: Arrival in Samarina

Arrive in Samarina, a unique nomadic village situated at an elevation of 1,400 meters, nestled beneath the highest peak of Mt. Smolikas. Settle into a cozy guesthouse in the village and savor a delightful dinner at the bustling square.

Overnight in Samarina.

Day 2: Samarina to Distrato

Begin your journey from the main square of Samarina, crossing the water wood saw and making your way to the ancient Monastery of Agia Paraskevi, the protector of the blind. Explore the forest road that leads to Valia Krna, known as the “Devil’s Valley” in Vlach. Enjoy a scenic ride of approximately 10 km, surrounded by the peaks of Smolikas, until you reach the stream of the valley. A short detour of 3 km will reward you with a visit to beautiful waterfalls. Continue along the main road to Distrato, cycling through meadows with awe-inspiring views. Before entering the village, take an optional swim in the river. Complete the day’s ride and arrive at the guesthouse for an overnight stay.

Total Distance: 27 km Dirt road: 19 km / Asphalt road: 8 km Altitude: 1,440 m – 948 m

Overnight in Distrato.

Day 3: Distrato to Vovousa (East Zagori)

Embark on a captivating cycling journey through the foothills of Mt. Vasilitsa, immersing yourself in an amazing forested landscape. These areas hold tales from the Second World War, where fallen airplanes, alpine brigades, and partisans once fought. Begin with an uphill ride, followed by a joyful downhill stretch on a well-paved forest road. Revel in the untouched beauty of nature and the breathtaking mountains of Aoos Valley as you reach the banks of the Aoos River and the village of Vovousa, an entrance to the remote Zagori area and the Valia Calda National Park.

Total Distance: 41 km Dirt road: 41 km Altitude: 948 m – 1,466 m – 985 m

Overnight in Vovousa.

Day 4: Vovousa to Laista (East Zagori)

Embark on an exhilarating cycling adventure, starting directly from your hotel and crossing the Morfa pass, one of the most impressive and challenging routes in the area. Ascend nearly 600m to reach the pass and be rewarded with magnificent views of the surrounding mountains, including Timfi and Smolikas, as well as the rest of the Zagori area. Begin the thrilling downhill ride along the forest road towards Laista, one of the most beautiful villages in Zagori. Relax and unwind at a guesthouse located directly in the village square.

Total Distance: 27 km Dirt road: 27 km Altitude: 1,534 m – 950 m

Overnight in Laista.

Day 5: Laista to Negades

After a delightful breakfast, set off on a cycling adventure through the most beautiful mountain landscapes in Greece. Ride on paved roads until you reach the Giftokampos area, where you’ll have the opportunity to visit the houses of the nomadic folk known as the “Sarakatsani.” Continue on a scenic forest road to the “Templitses” plateau, a summer grazing area for shepherds. Traverse thick forests and enjoy the picturesque route to the village of Negades, where you’ll spend the night.

Total Distance: 48.2 km Tarmac: 19.9 km / Forest road: 28.3 km Altitude: 950 m – 1,075 m – 1,285 m – 1,000 m

Overnight in Negades.

Day 6: Negades to Vitsa (Central Zagori)

Embark on a sightseeing tour of central Zagori, where numerous fascinating attractions await. Discover old arched bridges, monuments, monasteries, and the region’s natural wonders. Begin your journey from Negades towards Kipi village, where you’ll encounter several arched stone bridges, once the only connection between these villages and the outside world. Continue to Monodentri to enjoy stunningviews of the Vikos Gorge from the Oxia viewpoint. Descend back to the village and visit the Agia Paraskevi monastery.

Distance: 27.7 km (until Monodendri) Altitude: 1,000 m – 750 m – 1,100 m – 1,376 m

Overnight and farewell dinner in Vitsa.

Day 7: Vikos Gorge Crossing

Early in the morning, transfer to Monodendri (a 10-minute drive) to begin your hiking adventure. The Vikos Gorge is one of Greece’s most popular hiking destinations, featuring limestone and dolomite formations dating back 150 million years. With walls reaching heights of up to 1,700 meters, it is the world’s deepest canyon in proportion to its width. Embark on an ascending and descending trail surrounded by steep mountain peaks, dense forests, and a rich variety of plant species. Transfer back to Vitsa for a farewell dinner at a local restaurant.

Level of Difficulty: Moderate

Overnight in Vitsa.

Day 8: Departure

Transfer from Vitsa to the airport.

Not Included:

• Arrival and departure transfers to Samarina and from Vitsa
• Drinks during meals
• Anything not mentioned below

Suitable Seasons: April – October

4-7 participants  1310€/pp
2-3 participants 1950€/pp

What to Bring

• Large, comfortable rucksack (40 – 50 liters) with padded straps and waist belt, internal frame preferred; waterproof liner recommended keeping clothing, etc. dry inside

• Good waterproof top with hood

• Warm clothes, both for windy / cold daytime conditions and for the cool evenings (fleece tops or similar)

• Shorts and long trousers for walking, preferably quick-drying material (cotton or poly-cotton not denim)

• Sweatshirts or T-shirts for walking, at least one with long sleeves and collar (against sunburn)

• Sheet sleeping bag or similar (e.g. duvet cover), for the overnights in the refuge, although blankets will be available

• Sunglasses, towel, sun hat or cap, sun block

• Your own personal water bottle. As part of our environmental policy and actions, we are committed to eliminating the use of plastic water bottles.

• Wash bag and simple first aid kit (plasters or blister kit, aspirin or similar, antiseptic)

Includes

• 7 overnights with breakfast sharing a double room in traditional guesthouses

• Meal Plan Full Board: 6 x lunches & 7 x dinners

• English speaking Guide

• 5 days of biking + 1 hike in Vikos Gorge

• Support vehicle throughout the tour

• Mountain Bike Rental for 5 days

Itinerary

• Day1 : Arrival in Samarina
• Day2 : Samarina to Distrato
• Day3 : Distrato to Vovousa (East Zagori)
• Day4 : Vovousa to Laista (East Zagori)
• Day5 : Laista to Negades
• Day6 : Negades to Vitsa (Central Zagori)
• Day7 : Vikos gorge crossing
• Day8 : Departure

Meeting point

Cancellation Policy - Moderate

• If you cancel 10 days or earlier before the booked activity start date, you'll get a full refund.
• If you cancel within 4 and 10 days before the booked activity starting date, you'll get 50% back.
• Cancellations made 4 days or beyond, before the booked activity starting date, are treated as last-minute cancellations. There will be no refunds.