The Nature in Autumn and Springtime: The Ideal Time to Hike at Meteora
1.Enjoy Mesmerizing Sceneries Away from the Beaten Tourist Paths
During the high season, the parking lots outside the monasteries can get crowded with cars, buses, and large groups of tourists. Leave your car behind and escape the noise to discover the peaceful, scenic trails on the hidden side of Meteora. Walk among the giant cliffs in what many describe as a “forest of rock pillars.” The hike is relatively easy, with a total length of 6 km, most of which is under the shade, making it suitable for all ages. The hike has an elevation gain of about 250 meters from start to finish.
2.Have the Chance to Visit Ypapanti, a Hidden Monastery of Meteora
One of the best reasons to join the hiking tour is the chance to visit the Ypapanti Monastery. This is one of the oldest monasteries in Meteora, recently renovated and open to visitors during the high season (from May to October, 10:00 to 14:00). It remains a hidden gem, accessible only on foot—and there’s no entrance fee!
3.See and Experience Things You Won’t Otherwise
While there are many viewpoints and spots accessible by car, you’ll see much more if you choose to walk. We always recommend that visitors explore Meteora on foot to truly experience the site. This gives you the opportunity to discover hidden gems and viewpoints that only locals know.
4.Learn About the Flora and Fauna of the Area
Did you know that Greece is home to around 6,600 indigenous plant species, which make up 50% of the EU’s entire flora? For comparison, the UK has only 800 species. Greece ranks third worldwide in terms of endemic plants, given its geographical size. About 1,600 of these plants are aromatic and medicinal. The Meteora region is one of the richest in Greece when it comes to indigenous plants and rare herbs.
5.Test the Theory of Relativity
The pace of modern life is often fast and relentless. On this hiking tour, however, you’ll have the chance to slow down and really take in your surroundings. When you walk, time seems to slow, and you can fully experience the beauty around you. To paraphrase Einstein’s theory of relativity, the experiences you absorb are relative to the speed at which you move through space and time.
6.Capture the Most Amazing Pictures
If you love photography, this tour is perfect for you! Meteora ranks among the most photogenic sites in the world, and when you combine it with a hiking tour, you’ll ensure you capture the most spectacular shots. Don’t forget your camera!
7.Make New Friends
One of the best aspects of this hiking tour is the opportunity to meet new people. The small group size and slow pace make it easy to connect with others. We’ve seen people form friendships, share photos, and even enjoy a drink together afterward. In fact, we’ve witnessed a marriage proposal on the tour—so, be prepared for anything!
8.Discover the Ancient Trails of the Monks
The roads in the Meteora area are relatively new, having been built in 1948. For the previous 700 years, monks, pilgrims, and locals traveled the area via a dense network of trails, many of which are still in use today. These are the same trails that your guide will lead you through on this hike.
9.Keep Fit and Have Fun
Greek food is absolutely delicious, and it can be hard to resist. If you’ve indulged in some pita gyros with tzatziki the night before and are now far away from your gym, don’t worry! This hiking tour is the perfect chance to burn off those extra calories while having fun.
10.Listen to Local Legends and Stories from Our Exceptional Guides
Our guides are all young locals who grew up in the area. They know the history of Meteora like the back of their hands and are passionate about sharing it with visitors. Their storytelling goes beyond mere facts—they grew up hearing local legends as bedtime stories, and these tales have shaped who they are today. You’ll hear firsthand accounts that you won’t find in any history book
🙏 Thank you for reading!
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The Greek Heaven Team
source : visitmeteora