Tzoumerka
Tzoumerka (or Athamanian Mountains) is part of the Pindos Mountain range, located between rivers Arachthos and Acheloos, and forms the natural boundary with Thessaly. The highest peak is Kakarditsa (2,429 meters) and the second highest is Katafydi (2,393 meters). The wild beauty and unique landscape contribute to the fascinating scenery that never fails to impress visitors. Running waters, dense forests, rivers, gorges, waterfalls and alpine meadows embrace the picturesque villages of Tzoumerka, which preserve their authenticity and stand out for their hospitality. The mountain relief, which mainly occurs due to soil erosion, is characterized by diversity and significant altitude variations and this land of contrasts is most certainly fascinating. Rivers, tributaries, streams and creeks dominate in the stunning natural environment of the region. Most of them flow into the Acheloos river to the east and Arachthos to the west, while in certain places they also form impressive waterfalls, such as those in Theodoriana, Melissourgoi, Kalentzi (Klifki) and Katarraktis, its name meaning waterfall. These are without a doubt among the most important attractions in Tzoumerka, and those who choose these picturesque villages for their holidays, do not miss the opportunity to visit them.
The slopes of Tzoumerka are covered with dense forests; mainly firs and black pines, in lower altitudes there are willows, oaks and plane trees, and cedars in the alpine region. The difficult terrain of the area, which is among the most mountainous in our country, has helped preserve the rich fauna and flora of Tzoumerka largely intact. Several species of mammals live in the area, such as the roe deer, the wild cat, the otter, the wolf, and the wild boar, while the avifauna is also rich, consisting of peregrine falcons, Egyptian vultures, partridges, eagles and booted eagles. Nature in Tzoumerka is adapted to seasonal changes, but especially in spring, the alpine meadows are filled with wild flowers, crocuses, violets, orchids and the rare Solenanthus albanicus.
The Tzoumerka region falls under the protection zone of the National Park of Tzoumerka, Peristeri and the Arachthos Gorge and it is the perfect choice for alternative tourism, where the visitor has the opportunity to enjoy unique landscapes of aesthetic and environmental value, to taste traditional recipes and to explore places with a great view, full of colors and contrasts. There are several guesthouses in Tzoumerka that cover all requirements.
