OVERVIEW
Meteora is the perfect place for a 3 day hiking experience. It is certified as a World Heritage Site by UNESCO and it will definitely mesmerize the travelers.
During this trip the hiker will have the chance to see this unique geological phenomenon as the trail cuts across gigantic rock pillar formations with monasteries on top.
For the hiker this trip will be a journey back in time as parts of the trail were used by the local monks more than fourteen centuries ago.
These paths lead to the cave like hollows in the rock face where, at the beginning of the 20th century, solitary monks used to live.
The trip continues through a beautiful scenery with plane trees and gets to a height that offers the chance to see from up above this impressive geological phenomenon and the monasteries built on top of them, that give the impression they levitate.
Meteora lies in the center of Greece, only four hours away from Athens. The combination of its rich cultural heritage and its unique landscape make it a must visit destination for the lovers of hiking.
Tour Facts
Total Distance: 18km
Duration: 3 nights, 2 days walking
Minimum Daily Distance: 6,7km
Maximum Daily Distance: 11,3km
Code: MTS01 Grade: Easy / Moderate
Season: March to November
Start of holiday: Kastraki
End of Holiday: Kastraki
Distance from Athens: 356km Approx. 3h 55min
2
Days Walking & Trekking
18 km
Total Distance
9km
Average Daily Walking
Highlights
- Mountain landscapes of Meteora
- Great Meteor Monastery
- Sunset of Meteora Rock
- Delicious traditional cuisine with local dishes
Meteora Trail
Trip Code: MTS010
Self-Guided
2 Days Hiking
Walking & Trekking
March to November
Easy / Moderate
EASY / MODERATE
4 Days from
300€
DAY 1 ARRIVAL TO KASTRAKI VILLAGE
Transfer from Athens to Kastraki by private Car. Approximately 4 hours 15 min
DAY 2 CIRCULAR WALK FROM KASTRAKI CIRCLE 1
KASTRAKI CIRCLE 1
Length: 6,7km
Ascent: 299m
Descent: 301m
Flat walking: 1,5km
Ascent Length: 2,8km
Descent Length: 2,3km
Duration(approximately): 2hours 30min
Difficulty 2/5
This beautiful circular route starts from the picturesque village of Kastraki, located at the foot of the Meteora Rocks. After crossing the country road we will follow the path that passes by Doubiani a rock that is offered for climbing. Then the path leads us to a beautiful area, having the Rocks on our right until we reach the impressive monastery of “Ypapapntis” which is literally built in the rock. After admiring the monastery, we continue uphill until we reach the plateau with the amazing view of the rocky complexes. We continue our walking and we reach the monastery of the “Great Meteoro”, we enter its courtyard and we follow the path that starts form the left of the stair. We hike on a paved path and after a while we reach the crossroads, where we actually see the “Barlaam” Monastery hanging over the rock. We have the option to visit it (about 10 minutes walk) or continue. The path then crosses the asphalt road and continues to the village of Kastraki from where we started.
DAY 3 CIRCULAR WALK FROM KASTRAKI CIRCLE 2
KASTRAKI CIRCLE 2
Length: 11,3km
Ascent: 490m
Descent: 480m
Flat walking: 1,43 km
Ascent length: 2,02 km
Descent length: 0,79 km
Duration(approximately): 4hours 15min
Difficulty 2/5
From Kastraki we take the same path as yesterday and go up to the monastery of Megalo Meteoro. Then we follow the uphill route that leads us to a place with panoramic view. After continuing our hike, we reach the monastery of “Agios Stefanos”. From there we pass a downhill paved path walking among the huge Rocks. At the end of this wonderful path we reach the city of Kalambaka. From there, reaching the edge of the city, we follow a new path that leads us to other equally beautiful and unique Rock formations. Continuing we reach the ring road that ends in Kastraki where we can admire the panoramic view of the village.
DAY 4 RETURN TO ATHENS
After a hearty breakfast, we return to Athens by private Car. Approximately 3 hours 55min.
Please note that the length of the trip does not include the distance from the path to your overnight accommodation.
About Route
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The trail of this trip is cyclic. Every day the trip starts and then ends at Kastraki. The trail is described as moderate with an average daily mileage of 12 km, well-marked and with sufficient path maintenance.
The track is mostly uneven footpath . In case the travelers want to visit some of the monasteries they should know that the access is by means of stair like steps that could be slippery in case of rain, so extra care is needed.
Time of Year
Hikers will enjoy Meteora regardless of the season. The colours of the nature are so different and so unique, that it is worth visiting, be it spring or autumn. In winter hikers will admire the wild beauty of the landscape but they should also be aware of the fact that there may be snow which will make hiking quite difficult. Hiking here in summer has its own advantages.Long days offer the hikers the chance to take their time and enjoy the walking, and it is also the best period to enjoy the sunset here with all its grandeur. During the day though, hikers must be careful as temperatures can get high.
Navigation
The package you will get from us includes maps of the region and tour details that will help you find your way. The paths are very well maintained and there will be no missing signs or marks.
Experience & Fitness
This route is suitable for people with a basic physical condition. It is considered moderate as it implies walking for more than 20 kms. Also the average daily trail is of about 15 kms on tracks that are not particularly challenging. In order to visit some of the monasteries, hikers should keep in mind that the access there is done by means of stairs carved in the rock.
Travel Insurance
Insurance does not included in the price. We strongly advise you to purchase one which covers you for the activity, emergency evacuation and hospital care.
Equipment
For this trip you don’t need to have some special hiking equipment with you.All you have to do is take the basic stuff that you will find listed in the information pack that will be sent to you.
Meals
Breakfast is included. For lunch you can either make something easy with the things you can buy at the local markets and just take it with you or maybe stop in a taverna en route.For dinner you can eat at local tavernas in the villages where you will be staying, or even enjoy a traditional dinner at the place of your accomodation. During this trip you will have the opportunity to try tasty local specialties such as the scrumptious traditional pies there.
How far in advance do I need to book?
Since some destinations are quite popular during high season finding an accomodation may be a bit difficult so we would advise you to do the booking as soon as you know your holiday plans.
What happens if I can’t walk a stage?
If you want to skip a part of the trail you can call a local taxi and go straight to the next spot where you have arranged for your accomodation.The staff at the hotel can help you with that.
For this trip, our primary choice is the traditional Archontiko Mesohori Hotel. A 4* hotel that highlights the local architecture of the destination. It is α family-run hotel, very comfortable, fully equipped with heating, en-suite bathroom/shower, air-conditioning, telephone, and television and provides exceptional service to its customer.
In case this accommodation is fully booked, we will find a similar or better alternative for you.
Extra overnight:
You can book additional night(s) at Kasrtaki village. If you wish we can also book for you before and/or after the trip a hotel in Athens.
Single Rooms & Solo Walkers
Prices per person are for the double room. If you wish single rooms we would be happy to accommodate you although there is a single room supplement payable.
Solo walkers are also welcome for an additional charge.
Suggests you:
If you are interested in a short break walking holidays then your choices are not limited. You can check any trip and customize it your needs. An excellent option for customizing short break hiking vacation can be Andros Trail.
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MTS010 Meteora Trail (3 nights, 2 days walking) 300€ per person |
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WHAT’S INCLUDED
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WHAT’S NOT INCLUDED
- Meals not mentioned above
- Trip Insurance (strongly advised to buy one) / (required)
- Tickets for Monasteries