Vikos Gorge: Monodendri

After a rather tiresome drive through the northern part of Albania, we set up our campsite somewhere south of Durres (Kolonje/Vajkan) on a gravel road. The night there was very quiet.

The journey from there to the Greek border, as well as the border crossing, goes surprisingly smoothly. By around 11:30, we are already in Kalpaki, the gateway to the Vikos-Aoos National Park, enjoying a cappuccino at a café.

At the information center of the national park, we get an overview of the potential destinations for the coming days.

Well-informed, we first head to Monodendri, one of the many so-called Zagori villages in the national park. From this well-kept village, we initially take a walk to the Paraskevi Monastery. It clings like an eagle's nest to the steep walls of the Vikos Gorge and offers us breathtaking views into the depths.

Back in Monodendri, we directly take the footpath to the Oxya viewpoint. This path leads us through dense oak and maple forests upwards. However, after about 45 minutes, we turn back, as dark clouds are rolling in, and thunder can be heard in the distance.

We return just in time and find refuge in our Nuggy, who has been patiently waiting for us 😉

Soon the rain subsides, allowing us to drive up to the Oxya viewpoint to gaze into the deepest gorge in the world (according to the Guinness Book of Records). Especially the path behind the viewpoint, narrow against the rock walls, fills us with awe.

Unfortunately, it is quite cloudy this afternoon, with the sun only appearing sporadically. Based on the forecasts from the past days, we are glad that we managed to do so much in the end! Ultimately, a tiring, exciting, and thrilling day.