This location is #53 on our Best Travel Destinations In Greece & Greek Islands Map!
The Tzoumerka National Park, located in the Pindus mountain range of northwestern Greece, spans approximately 317 square miles across the regions of Ioannina, Arta, Karditsa, and Trikala. Established in 2009, the park encompasses the rugged Tzoumerka (or Athamanika) mountain range, with its highest peak, Kakarditsa, reaching 7,969 feet. The landscape features dramatic gorges, crystal-clear rivers like the Arachthos and Acheloos, and cascading waterfalls, such as the Kefalovriso Waterfall, set against a backdrop of lush forests and alpine meadows. The park’s climate is cooler than Greece’s coastal areas, with temperatures ideal for hiking from mid-May to October, when snowmelt feeds the rivers and trails are accessible. Its remote location, about 186 miles from Thessaloniki and 250-280 miles from Athens, makes it a less touristy destination compared to parks like Vikos-Aoos, offering a serene escape for nature lovers.
Interesting Facts: Tzoumerka National Park is a haven for biodiversity, hosting rare wildlife like the chamois and soaring eagles, alongside diverse flora ranging from mixed forests to coniferous woodlands and high-altitude tundra. The park’s cultural heritage is equally rich, with over 45 traditional villages, such as Syrrako and Kalarrites, featuring stone houses, cobblestone alleys, and historical sites like the Plaka Stone Bridge, a single-arch marvel from the Ottoman era. These villages, largely untouched by mainstream tourism, preserve a rustic charm and were once connected by ancient mule tracks called kalderimia. The park also holds historical significance, with villages like Vourgareli playing roles in the Greek Revolution and Civil War, and landmarks like the 13th-century Red Church and St. George Monastery adding cultural depth.
Hiking and Trails: Tzoumerka offers an extensive network of hiking trails catering to all skill levels, winding through forests, gorges, and peaks with breathtaking views. Popular routes include the Tzoumerka Trail, a 31-mile path through alpine meadows and villages like Theodoriana, and the challenging ascent to Katafydi Summit (7,851 feet), which offers panoramic vistas and starts from Kataraktis Refuge or Theodoriana, covering 6.9 to 9.9 miles with elevation gains of 2,824 to 4,468 feet. The Peristeri Gorge route provides a moderate trek through lush forests, while the Arachthos River trail features waterfalls and turquoise pools. Trails often start from villages like Vourgareli, Syrrako, or Pramanta, with the eastern slopes being gentler for winter hiking. Hikers should bring sturdy gear, including backpacks, tents, and water bottles, as some trails are remote, and facilities are limited.
