As part of our Green Traveller's Guide to Zagori and the Epirus Coast, here's our pick of places to stay.
The surprise of Zagori is that such a traditional region provides such excellent accommodation. Like Dordogne or Provence without the crowds, it excels in family-owned hotels and B&Bs within traditional stone houses: former farmhouses, a restored stable, a lovingly refurbished merchant’s house or modern villas constructed using age-old techniques. There’s also a hiker’s hostel brilliantly sited in the mountains that’s worth the three hours walk. All excel in tranquility and charm. Yet there’s relaxed style if you want it, too.
Escapism aside, what these places have in common is their size; most have fewer than 12 rooms and all but two are owner-run. Freed from the demands of mass hospitality, their environmental footprints are smaller and their breakfasts are better, sourced direct from local farmers. Their welcomes are also warmer. Use our carefully selected network of accommodation to discover the charm and personality of this beautiful region of Greece.
Primoula Country Hotel and Spa, Greece A converted stone building in the pretty village of Ano Pedina is now a family-run Boutique Hotel (4 star) with rooms, suites and villas. With valley views and a whole raft of impressive green features throughout including an outdoor and indoor spa. primoula.gr
Astra Inn, Megalo Papigo, Greece A charming family stay overlooking the Astraka Towers in the beautiful region of Zagori. The cottages combine traditional and modern styles in harmony with the environment to create an oasis of calm, and the homemade breakfast is delicious. astra-inn.gr
Thoukididis Guest House, Kapesovo, Greece
This enchanting restored merchant's home must be one of the loveliest hideaways in Zagori. Every room has its own unique charm and style. Don't miss the Sterna shop, a treasure trove of interesting traditional food products and gifts. thoukididis.gr
Kipi Suites, Kipi, Greece
Escapism in style and then some. On a hillside of a traditional village, a former stables is now a design guesthouse that marries cool and charm. It's perfect for exploring the stunning surroundings and has amazing panoramic views. ariahotels.gr/en/kipi-suites-zagori
Artsistas Houses, Aristi, Greece
In the style of a traditional hamlet, these 7 houses are built in traditional style but are stylish and modern inside. On the edge of Zagoria National Park with a fabulous view of the Astraka Towers, Artsistas Houses create a truly relaxing getaway. artsista.gr
Astraka Refuge, near Megalo Papigo, Greece
A family-run hikers’ hostel three hours’ walk from Megalo Papigo that’s great for outdoor activites such as hiking and rock climbing on Mount Timfi. Yet non-walkers will also appreciate the extraordinary escapism and dramatic views. astrakarefuge.com
Gamila Rocks, Aristi, Greece
Tucked on a green hillside near the stunning Vikos Gorge, Gamila Rocks is a fantastic base for all kinds of outdoor activities in the beautiful surroundings. It's also a great place to just stay and relax, with a sauna, gym and outdoor hydropool. gamilarocks.com
Aberratio Boutique Hotel, Aristi, Greece
Just off the buzzing village square in Aristi, this 12-bedroomed boutique hotel is housed in a traditional building with plenty of contemporary flourishes, with beautiful grounds, bistro serving Zagori specialities and mountain and forest views. aberratio.com
Pirrion Hotel Sweet Hospitality, Ano Pedina, Greece
Located in the traditional village of Ano Pedina, this family-run resort has ten cozy rooms, each one with its own unique character and style named after local stewed fruits. The beautiful Voidomatis River, great for swimming, is 12km away. pirrion.gr Amaryllis Luxury Guest House, Ano Pedina, Greece
This French-inspired country guesthouse in pretty Ano Pedina has 8 immaculate bedrooms and wonderful gardens to roam. Feast on homemade cakes and pancakes at breakfast. Plenty to do in the local area, from walking and hiking to horse riding. amaryllishouse.gr
Archontiko Dilofou, Dilofo, Greece
On the slopes of Tymfi, this clutch of beautifully renovated stone buildings plumb in the middle of the village is a gem of a place to stay, with 10 traditionally decorated bedrooms and local produce at breakfast. Masses of activities from the door. dilofo.eu
Hotel Metropolis, Ioannina, Greece
Recently renovated with all the modern comforts, this neoclassical building, which dates to 1934, it utterly unique in style and design. Feast on local specialities at the café-bistro. metropolishotel.gr
Zagori Suites, Vitsa, Greece
Zagori Suites is a stone’s throw away from the magnificent Vikos Gorge. Providing comforts and amenities it is a place reassuring pure and endless moments of rejuvenation. It is a resort of exceptional architecture. zagorisuites.gr
Alonaki Beach, Preveza, Greece
The tranquility of a beautiful beach-side stay just over a mile from central Preveza. This small hotel is on a quiet sand beach with calm clear water, making it ideal for young families. alonakibeach.gr
Magda’s Apartment Hotel, Parga, Greece
A fine alternative to touristy central Parga. This is a return to the Greece of old: there’s traditional décor in spotless rooms and a warm welcome from the owners, a local family. It also offers a tranquil garden with a sea view, pool and jacuzzi. magdas-hotel.com
For nearby places to eat, and local places of interest and low impact activities, see our Green Traveller's Guide to Zagori and the Epirus Coast
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