Evritania: In the villages of Potamia
In the heart of Greece, surrounded by the mountains of Pindos, lies Evritania, a mountainous region with unique natural wealth. A land of wild and refined beauty and abundant greenery – a color inextricably linked to tranquility. The mountains of Evritania offer visitors countless opportunities for hiking, mountaineering, skiing, rafting and other sports. Apart from its natural beauty, Evritania is also famous for its rich cultural heritage. Its traditional villages, with their stone-built houses and cobbled squares, still retain their authentic atmosphere. These villages are an ideal destination for those who want to get to know the Greek tradition and live an authentic Greek experience.
A journey to the villages of Potamia
A true paradise for those seeking an authentic Greek experience is none other than an escape to the mountain villages of Evritania. They are known for their rich history and culture. In many of these villages, you can find traditional workshops, museums, and churches that will take you back in time.
The villages of Potamia are traditional, with preserved stone houses and beautiful cobbled streets. The inhabitants are mainly engaged in agriculture, animal husbandry and tourism.
Megalo Chorio
The largest village of Potamia is Megalo Chorio, which is the seat of the municipal unit. It is located at an altitude of 750 metres, built amphitheatrically at the foot of Mount Kaliakouda. It is one of the most beautiful villages in Greece. Its mansions reflect a glorious past of history and prosperity. Anerada inn will offer you a unique experience of staying in this beautiful mountainous place. Another dreamy option is the Forest Suites. You can’t go to Megalo Horio and leave and not have tried the galaktoboureko of Karvelis that you will find in Rakomelo.
At the foot of Mount Chelidonas is Mikro Chorio, a small, picturesque settlement located at an altitude of 850 meters. It is 12 km from Karpenisi and consists of 2 settlements, the Old Mikro Chorio and the New Mikro Chorio. In January 1963, due to a landslide, a large part of the mountain ‘Kri’ fell down, resulting in the collapse of most of the houses and therefore causing the death of 13 residents. This was the reason for the residents to leave the Old Small Village and move to the New Village.
The village square is a real gem. Its six crystal fountains offer coolness to residents and visitors, while the century-old plane tree that dominates the centre is the symbol of the village. To live and rest the village offers excellent accommodation. At Iviscos Studios you will find the peace and tranquility you want in a place well in harmony with its surroundings. Still, for excellent accommodation we also recommend Studio Merses, where the location and facilities will meet your every expectation.
Klavsi
Nine kilometres outside Karpenisi, another enchanting village worth visiting is the picturesque Klavsi, at an altitude of 780 metres. It is built at the foot of Mount Koniskos and next to it are the banks of the Karpenisiotis River. Due to the tourist development that Evritania has experienced in recent years, these villages are increasingly in the preferences of travelers. In the village you will find gorgeous guesthouses and restaurants to enjoy your stay in. In Kallion you have the opportunity to enjoy the warm hospitality of the owners combined with its dreamy location, making your stay unique.
To make your mountain excursion even more special, horseback riding is indicated in the area, something you will love. To live a unique experience on the banks of the Karpenisiotis River, turn to Natfil Horseriding, where through beautiful routes you will get to know the place better.
If your visit to Evritania includes the little ones in the family, an ideal place is The Newton Park. It is a place that combines learning with play. More specifically, it is an educational park that came to give the region a different twist. Children are exposed to science-related activities thus making knowledge…play!
Voutyro
Another village that will impress you with its authentic traditional beauty is Voutyro. You will find taverns, stylish guesthouses and hospitable residents! In the centre of the village you will find the church of Agia Paraskevi, a majestic building dating back to 1926.
A boutique guesthouse is waiting to accommodate you and it is none other than Emotions Country Resort. A true retreat overlooking the lush fir forest.
Travel Hint: To enjoy the beautiful view almost all along the valley of the Karpenisiotis River, from the village square, following a straight uphill path through fir trees will lead you to the chapel of Agios Ioannis where from there you will see a landscape that looks like a painting.
Prousos
Compared to the previous villages, Prousos is more famous since it is inextricably linked to the Monastery of Panagia Prousiotissa or Moni Prousos. The village is located southwest of the prefecture, at an altitude of 800 meters.
The Lady of Roumeli - Holy Monastery of Prousos
Stunning and imposing, it stands proudly built on a steep rock. Its foundation dates back to 829-842 AD. Inside the sacred cave is the catholic of the monastery, where the icon was found. It is worth mentioning that the stars on the icon are said to have been left by Georgios Karaiskakis when he was in the monastery. The Holy Monastery of Prousos attracts a large number of believers every year. Inside the monastery you will also find the historical museum, where you will see great exhibits.
«Panda Vrechi» Gorge
If you like adventure and hiking it is worth visiting one of the most charming and imposing aquatic natural attractions. It impresses every visitor who makes it all the way there to discover what they have heard or seen. Between the Kaliakouda and Platanaki mountains flows the river Krikellopotamos, part of which is the Panda Vrechi Gorge. To get there you will need to be very well organized and be an experienced guide, the route is demanding and dangerous. From a certain point onwards a car will be unnecessary. From there onwards your whole adventure will begin, as you will need to start hiking to get to the waterfalls. A spectacle that will compensate you in the absolute.
The gorge can only be visited for 4 months of the year (June, July, August, September) and this is for the reason that throughout the rest of the year the river has more water, which makes your hike dangerous.
