Three unique excursions from Grevena

If you're looking for an escape from routine, the region of Grevena with Valia Kalda and its stone-built villages is ideal. Discover hidden corners and authentic beauty through recommended routes.

1. Grevena – Valia Calda

Starting from Grevena, a magical escape awaits you into the heart of Valia Calda. The route offers a unique opportunity to enjoy the autumn splendor of the mountainous landscape and explore the hidden gems of the area. Plan your journey to include stops at picturesque villages such as Ziakas and Spilaio, and discover the legendary stone bridges, like the impressive Portitsa Bridge and the Aziz Aga Bridge – the tallest in Macedonia.

If you are a fan of driving on winding mountain roads and want to elevate your experience to another level, you can head toward the remote Vlach villages of Avdella and Perivoli. There, you will get a close look at the authentic charm of two of Greece’s most mountainous settlements, overflowing with tradition and natural beauty.

Before starting your adventure, it is essential to carefully plan your route and check the weather conditions, as they can significantly affect your journey. The length of the route and the time you will need depend on the stops you choose to make and the detours you include in your itinerary. Don’t rush – this route is an experience worth savoring to the fullest.

2. Dotsiko – Kalloni

Using the city of Grevena as your starting point, you can explore the northeastern part of the region, an almost untouched area with rugged terrain and unique natural beauty that borders the Kozani region. Your first stop along the way will be the stone-built village of Dotsiko, famous for its impressive stone bridge. Many consider this bridge to be the only arched bridge at such a high altitude in Greece. Next, don't miss visiting the stunning waterfall in Mesolouri – provided, of course, that weather conditions allow it and you're up for a short hike.

On your way back, depending on how much time you have, it’s worth making a small detour to the "Western Macedonian Zagori." There, you’ll come across the villages of Kalloni and Dasyllio, which keep alive the tradition of stone-built settlements. These villages are among the few remaining "Mastorochoria" (Craftsmen Villages) of Western Macedonia, a living testament to the craftsmanship of the region's stone builders.

3. Grevena – Deskati

Departing by car, you head towards the southeastern borders of the Grevena region, heading for Deskati. Before reaching the area, however, it is worth making a brief stop at the Zavordas Monastery, located almost exactly at the border with the Kozani region. The monastery, founded in the 16th century following a divine vision experienced by Saint Nikanoras, is one of the most historic and significant monasteries in northern Greece. Inside, it houses valuable relics and manuscripts that document the fascinating and turbulent history of the area over the centuries.

Moreover, just a 15-minute walk from the back of the monastery, you can reach the hermitage of Saint Nikanoras, built atop an impressive cliff that highlights the wild beauty of the landscape. Leaving the monastery behind, and if your vehicle's condition allows, you can enjoy a relaxing coffee at the Deskati refuge, situated at an altitude of 1,500 meters. Before departing, don’t miss the opportunity to try the region’s traditional dairy products, which epitomize the local gastronomy.

Information sourced from: Travel.gr
https://www.travel.gr/experiences/3-road-trips-me-afetiria-ta-grevena/