Epirus, the northwestern tip of Greece, is an area with tremendous diversity in terms of environments of exceptional beauty. From the deep blue sea of the Ionian to the alpine zones, the natural abundance of Epirus is itself a decisive factor for visiting and exploring.
Soaring mountains, sheer gorges, raging rivers that discharge into the Ionian Sea and lagoons, flourishing slopes with dense forests and rich wildlife, ancient caves. Welcome to the most exciting side of the Pindos mountain sierra! The untamed mountain peaks of Epirus that stand on pristine, huge rocky volumes create long-sung, mythical rivers that have been the occasion for the development of the various cultures and settlements of Epirus over the millennia. The almost always rushing river Acheron that has associated its name with the Gates of the Underworld springs from the peaks of Mount Tomaros, while Arachthos, the eighth largest river in Greece, sources from Lakmos and Mitsikeli, flowing through gorges, plains and of course the city of Arta before emptying into the lagoon of the Amvrakikos Gulf.
Epirus is a real attraction for nature lovers. Of the 10 national parks that exist in Greece, 2 of them are located in Epirus. The unique natural beauties of Vikos-Aoos and Pindos National Parks portray the biodiversity in the flora and fauna, as areas with thick forests and steep slopes are home to wild animals such as the brown bear, wolves, foxes, eagles, hawks and gulls. Also, trout, eels and mullets live in the fresh waters of more than 30 natural lakes of Epirus. Of course, the most famous lake is Pamvotida, the “Lady” of Ioannina.
A really special feature that Epirus possesses is the short distance from the mountains to the wonderful coastline. From the wild, often inhospitable mountain peaks of Tzoumerka to the diamond blue beaches of Preveza in just a short drive and from the far-off, mountainous Tsamantas of Thesprotia to the idyllic Sivota in a beautiful ride of one and a half hours.
