Active Adventures in Epirus, Greece

Throughout the region of Epirus, situated in the north west of Greece, there are many exciting activities on offer that will draw you away from the lure of the coast and into the beautiful interior of the country. If you are looking for an active holiday in Greece, why not consider doing one or more of the following (each of which is offered by many different companies:

Take your time and paddle down the beautiful Acheron River. The wildlife and natural beauty are enough to commend this area, without the pleasant ache you with have at the end of a long day's paddling. Whether you hire the kayaks and make your own way, or take a guided tour with someone who can tell you all about the area and what you are seeing, this could just be the perfect combination of relaxation and exercise for your next adventure holiday.

There are three ski centres in the area, of which this is the most comprehensive. Located around 4 km from Mestovo, this ski centre is fairly small but does have a range of slopes for beginners and intermediate skiers. Kids and big kids will enjoy the 72m tubing course too.

The dramatic Vikos Gorge is in the Guinness World Records as the deepest gorge and is a popular location for all sorts of adventure sports, from rafting, to kayaking, hiking and biking and canyoning. There is a variety of rare wildlife to be found here, and some truly impressive and dramatic scenery.

You can raft down the Vikos river through the imposing Vikos Gorge, or down the smaller Aoos river which bisects it, or down one of the other impressive rivers in the area. You will be spoiled for choice and there are many companies offering such experiences based in Ioannina and elsewhere throughout Epirus.

There are so many wonderful places to hike in Epirus that it can be difficult to know where to begin. One idea is to base yourself in Ioannina. From there you can hike into the Vikos, Vikaki and Aoos Gorges, or around the lovely trails that lead throughout the areas pristine forests, between rivers, hills and lakes. Ioannina is a very popular area for hiking. One of the most challenging and yet rewarding paths in the area is that which leads up Mount Tymfi. The path takes you past the legendary 'dragon lake' to the high mountain village of Tsepelovo, giving the option for walkers to continue on up the mountain past the Astraka refuge to the unique Dracolimni mountain lakes. You will almost certainly see large birds of prey en route.

There are just a few of the many outward bound activities you could choose in this area. If you are looking to do something a little different for your Greek holiday, consider the interesting and varied region of Epirus.