The Vikos Gorge

The Vikos Gorge is located in the Pindos Mountains and stretches for nearly 10km in length. It is the deepest gorge in the world and is therefore in the Guinness Book of Records. One of its features is the almost vertical rock walls of about 1000m. In other sources, it is claimed that they are only 600m. Unfortunately, we couldn't measure it ourselves due to a lack of measuring tape. The gorge has an almost untouched flora and fauna. Vultures and eagles as well as bears, wolves, and wildcats live here. That's why the residents also protect their properties with electric fences.

The gorge extends from the village of Monodendri to the village of Vikos, as does the eponymous river Vikos. You can hike through the gorge from both villages. It takes 6 to 8 hours for the distance. However, it is not quite easy for inexperienced hikers, as you have to climb a lot. Accordingly, good footwear and sufficient supplies are important.

Therefore, we decided to enjoy the view from above. First, we drove to the most visited place, Monodendri, where there is a tiny little monastery within about 1km walking distance. However, since most tourists visit this place, it was correspondingly crowded. With the usual souvenir shops and restaurants, we didn't particularly like it there. So we decided to drive to the village of Vikos, which turned out to be the best decision. Hardly any tourists get lost in the small sleepy village with a handful of houses. Also because the journey is considerably longer. On the way, we found a pretty village church on the side of the road, which unfortunately was not accessible. Nevertheless, we took a photo stop. When driving to Vikos, you have to pass through the Stone Forest. It got its name from the stacked rocks on which the forest grows.

In Vikos itself, you can enjoy a meal in one of the two taverns and visit the viewpoint. There is another small café hidden there. The view from here over the gorge is magnificent. We were allowed to spend the night at the small village church. Of course, we asked.