Epirus Car Hire

Guide of Epirus

Geography

Epirus lies in northwestern Greece, squeezed between the Pindus Mountains and the Ionian Sea. It is a mostly rugged and mountainous region, characterized by dramatic gorges, alpine pastures and crystal-clear rivers. The highest point of the region is Mount Smolikas, which soars to an altitude of 2,637 metres above sea level.

Epirus is rich in flora and fauna, particularly in Vikos Gorge (also known as Vikos Gap) and the glorious Pindos National Park thanks to high rainfall throughout winter. But beach lovers are in for a treat too, with dozens of sandy shores, small bays and hidden beaches dotted along the Epirot coastline.

Climate in Epirus

The climate in Epirus varies considerably and temperatures depend on where you are staying. The mountains experience heavy winters with snow and rain. Temperatures can drop as low as -11°C ins some areas of Zagoria. Temperatures tend to remain cooler in the summertime too. Over on the coastal plains, temperatures are much higher. Summers are hot and dry, with little rain and endless days of sunshine.

Culture

Epirus boasts a rich history. It has been inhabited since the Paleolithic times and many of its settlements were founded during the Mycenean era. The ancient site of Dodoni is one of the most ancient oracles in Greece and is dedicated to Zeus. The region is also home to magnificent monasteries, ancient archaeological sites, the castle of Ioannina and an impressive Byzantine museum. Today, Epirus is also well-known for its traditional craftsmanship, particularly stonemasonry and silversmithing.

Things To Do in Epirus

Meander around a collection of mountainous villages

Zagori (also known as Zagoria) is a spectacular region encompassing over 40 traditional villages set on mountain slopes and interconnected by 18th-century bridges. Surrounded by verdant peaks, the area is prime hiking territory. Papigo is the best-known village, thanks to its spectacular views of the gorge and gently flowing river that cuts through its heart. Other picturesque villages include Mikro Papigo, Monodendri and Vitsa.

Explore the second-deepest canyon in the world

The Vikos Gorge is one of the deepest gorges in the world, second only to the Grand Canyon. Part of the Vikos-Aoos National Park, a UNESCO Global Geopark, the area is a haven for extreme adventure enthusiasts, where trekking, rock climbing and whitewater rafting opportunities abound. Nearby, there’s the lovely Monastery of Agia Paraskevi.

Dive into the region’s ancient past

Epirus is brimming with archaeological sites, but the most famous of these is Dodona. Thousands flock here every year to see the oldest Hellenic oracle, which dates back to the second millennium BCE. Other renowned sites include Necromantion, said to be the site of the Gates of the Underworld, Nicopolis and Cassope.

Visit the vibrant capital city

Ioannina, the capital of Epirus, is a vibrant university town set on the shores of the Pamvotida Lake. Its historical heart is brimming with traditional houses, cool cafes, storied monuments and fascinating museums. Don’t miss the Ottoman Mosque of Veli Pasha or the House Matei Hussein. The island in the lake is crammed full of Byzantine architecture too.

Beach hop across secluded bays and hidden coves

Epirus is best known for its spectacular mountain scenes, but the region is home to some brilliant beaches too. Parga and Sivota, with their bustling beach bars and excellent facilities, are two of the most popular beaches. The laidback town of Preveza (not far from the airport) boasts some beautiful sandy stretches too, like Alonaki.

Take a trip to an Ionian fjord

Syvota is considered one of Greece’s most unusual destinations. Facing the southern tip of Corfu, the tiny village boasts long sheltered beaches, tiny coves and luscious green islets.

Eating Out in Epirus

Epirus is a pastoral region, which means plenty of delicious local meat and dairy products. There’s a staggering variety of local cheese, from top-quality feta cheese to the famous smoky metsovone cheese, a semi-hard rich cheese found in the peaks of northern Epirus. Pies are popular too, stuffed with everything from meat and fish to macaroni and vegetables.

There are hundreds of koutouki (small, traditional eateries) to choose from, as well as restaurants, tavernas and bars. Molos, in Ioannina, is located right by the lakeside and serves up a mouthwatering selection of local delicacies. In Parga, you’ll find excellent eateries like Hellenikon and Ponte too. It’s hard to eat badly in this region though, so we recommend following your nose and sampling as much as you can.

Transport

Airport

There are two airports in Epirus. Ioannina International Airport is the gateway to northwestern Greece, located four km from the city centre of Ioannina. It’s a small airport mostly served by domestic airlines, though there are seasonal charter flights from a small selection of cities in Europe. Aktion National Airport (also known as Preveza Airport) is located 1.5 hours south of Ioannina. Numerous airlines offer direct flights to the airport from across the UK, Italy, Germany and other European countries, though there are fewer flights during the winter months.

Getting Around Epirus

Buses serve the largest towns in the region, but for more flexibility, we recommend hiring a car. Many of the region’s best attractions are not connected to a regional bus network and transfers can be extremely expensive. The roads in Epirus are in good condition and drivers are more laid-back than in Greece’s more touristy destinations.