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Beautiful Monodendri village offers Greece like many tourists have never seen it (Image: Getty) If you're searching for a Greek destination as stunning as Crete or Rhodes but without the crowds, look no further than the Zagori region in northern Greece. This gorgeous area was recently awarded the title of UNESCO World Heritage site in 2023. Nestled in the heart of Epirus, this area is home to the Zagorochoria National Park, an expansive and lush ecosystem renowned for its breathtaking beauty.

Zagori is a hidden gem composed of 46 traditional villages, known collectively as the Zagorohoria. These villages are scattered across the rugged landscapes of the Tymfi, Pindos, and Mitsikeli mountain ranges. Unlike Greece's more popular tourist spots, Zagori offers a tranquil retreat where visitors can immerse themselves in nature and experience a way of life seemingly unchanged for centuries.



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Log('[Load] OVP flagTcfLoaded',new Date())}else{document.addEventListener("tcfLoaded",()=>{loadOvpScript()ExpressApp.Log('[Load] OVP tcfLoaded',new Date())})}},1500)}) The villages themselves are architectural masterpieces, with structures built from local stone, wood, and slate.

Each village is typically centered around a picturesque square shaded by a large plane tree, with narrow, cobblestone streets winding through clusters of stone houses. Don't miss..

. European hidden gem featured in classic film is far less touristy than Santorini The historical stone arched bridge of Konitsa (Image: Getty) These charming villages are complemented by the surrounding natural beauty, featuring dense forests, jagged mountain peaks, and crystal-clear rivers. One of the region's most impressive features is the Vikos Gorge, often referred to as the Greek Grand Canyon.

This awe-inspiring natural wonder offers some of the most spectacular views in the country, with hiking trails that lead to stunning vantage points. For those exploring Zagori, the journey itself is part of the adventure. The villages are connected by scenic roads and ancient stone bridges, such as the iconic Plakidas Bridge, which has become a favorite spot for photography enthusiasts.

Driving through this area, you'll encounter a series of breathtaking landscapes, from verdant forests to serene rivers, making it an ideal destination for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts. Don't miss..

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You can unsubscribe at any time. Read our Privacy Policy While many visitors to Greece flock to the well-trodden paths of Meteora, those who venture into the lesser-known Zagori region are rewarded with a peaceful and authentic experience. Whether you're wandering the tranquil streets of Megalo Papigo, admiring the panoramic views from Monodendri, or hiking along the trails of the Vikos Gorge, Zagori offers a slice of Greece that feels wonderfully untouched by time.

With its remote location and unspoiled beauty, Zagori is the perfect escape for travelers seeking a more serene and off-the-beaten-path destination in Greece..

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