Vikos & Voidomatis: Two Sides, One Epic Hike in Zagori
The wider area of the Vikos-Aoos National Park offers two main, spectacular hiking experiences, depending on the level of difficulty you are seeking: the gentle Voidomatis route and the challenging traverse of the main gorge.
The Gentle Route: Along the Banks of the Voidomatis
Hiking along the banks of the Voidomatis River constitutes the most characteristic and accessible experience. The path follows the river’s flow through the lower section of the ravine.
Feature | Description |
Traverse Points | Aristi Bridge → Klidonia Bridge |
Length | Approximately 6 kilometers |
Duration / Difficulty | 3-4 hours / Low (1/5) |
Story Behind it
The hiking route next to the Voidomatis is a journey through the region’s history and geology. Here you will find shallow caves and rock shelters where traces of human habitation were found dating back 40,000 years. Along the route, you will encounter the charming, stone Chapel of Agioi Anargyroi (16th century) and conclude at the emblematic single-arched Klidonia Bridge, a masterpiece of Epirote folk architecture.
Why we love it
We love this route because we walk next to the cleanest river in Europe, where the visibility of the riverbed is complete and the waters have a unique, turquoise colour. The path is covered by enormous plane trees, creating a “green tunnel” atmosphere, while the sound of the river offers complete serenity.
The Great Traverse: Inside the Vikos Gorge
Traversing the main gorge constitutes a classic mountaineering challenge and offers a unique connection with the world’s deepest gorge in relation to its width.
Feature | Description |
Traverse Points | Monodendri → Vikos (or vice versa) |
Length | Approximately 12-14 kilometers |
Duration / Difficulty | 6-7 hours / Medium to Demanding (2+/5) |
Story Behind it
The traverse was formerly the traditional communication road between the villages of Central Zagori, before the construction of vehicular roads. The route passes through the core of the National Park, where the vertical limestone walls reach 1,000 meters in height. The path primarily moves beside and within the riverbed of the stream that crosses the gorge (the stream is usually dry in the summer, which is when the traverse is safe). The main rest stop is at the Voidomatis Springs, before the final ascent towards Vikos village.
Why we love it
We love this traverse because it offers a deep sense of accomplishment and the opportunity to experience the magnitude of a global geological phenomenon. We walk on the floor of the ravine, among rocks millions of years old, in a landscape of absolute awe and striking geomorphology.
Fresh Tips
- Seasonal Importance: The Vikos Traverse (Monodendri – Vikos) is recommended from late May to mid-October to avoid flooded waters in the riverbed.
- Physical Condition: The great traverse requires very good physical condition and hiking boots with ankle support and good traction.
- Water: On the Monodendri-Vikos traverse, there is only one reliable water source halfway through the route (at the Voidomatis springs), so you must carry sufficient quantities.
More Experiences
