Welcome to Karpenisi
While most travellers flock to Greece’s sun-soaked islands, a hidden gem nestled in the country’s mountainous heart offers an entirely different Greek experience.
A four-hour drive from the hectic capital Athens, Karpenisi allows you to be closer to wild nature with its relaxing mountain landscape where alpine beauty meets traditional Greek charm.
Karpenisi and its Surrounding Beauty
Renting a car or motorbike in Karpenisi opens a world of outdoor adventures just waiting to be discovered. With the freedom of your vehicle, navigate the stunning landscape and visit a variety of outdoor activities, including picturesque lakes, cascading waterfalls, and beautiful viewpoints.
You can easily stop at various attractions, scenic viewpoints, and charming villages along the way. Such as driving through the lush forest road, and viewing Lake Kremasta, and Episkopi Bridge.
Around KarpenisiKarpenisi’s Winter Wonderland
Explore the adventurous road through Karpenisi, where the town serves as a perfect base for exploring the surrounding Pindos Mountains, often called the “Switzerland of Greece.” Best to be explored during winter months, as it boasts snow-covered mountains.
The surrounding mountains offer breathtaking views and a variety of winter sports, making it an ideal destination for skiing, snowboarding, and hiking. Enjoy the view with comfortable cars, allowing you to relax as you drive through beautiful snowy mountain roads.
MountainLake Kremasta
Lake Kremasta is the largest artificial lake in Greece and serves as the natural border between the prefectures of Evritania and Aetoloakarnania, linked by the impressive Episkopi Bridge. It is known as the cleanest lake in Greece, and its shores provide a habitat for endangered and rare species, all protected under the EU’s Natura 2000 program.
Driving across the Episkopi Bridge is an enchanting experience showcasing the beauty and charm of the mountainous landscape. It offers a panoramic view of Lake Kremasta, making it a perfect spot for moments of reflection or a quick photo to capture the essence of this picturesque journey.
Lake LandscapeMegalo and Mikro Chorio
The main village of Karpenissi is a charming historical old town enveloped by a stunning mountain landscape. Park your car and stroll through the village’s cobbled streets and charming alleys, taking in the beauty of the meticulously maintained stone mansions.
Explore various handcrafted art shops and the Folklore Museum and stroll through the picturesque streets lined with stunning old houses that tell stories of the past. When you’re done, consider hiking up to Lakkomata, reaching an elevation of 1,500 meters. You’ll find a monument commemorating the historic battle of Kaliakouda on August 28, 1823. From this vantage point, you can enjoy views of Helidona and Palaio Mikro Chorio.
Old-TownOld Town, and Cultural Spots
There are many surrounding villages in Karpenisi to explore, and each village has its charm. Stop by and visit Megalo Chorio for its traditional stone-built houses across the verdant mountainside, Monasteries in Proussos village for their rich heritage culture and along the way with traditional Greek Tavernas.
For a family-friendly and spacious seating option, cars are the ideal choice for exploring the area. Renting a car offers the freedom to explore the region’s scattered attractions at your own pace.
Old TownPanagia Prousiotissa
The monastery of Panaghia Prousiotissa, perched atop a mountain, was established between the 12th and 14th centuries. It was founded by monks Dionysios and Timotheos. According to tradition, the monastery was built to house the miraculous icon of the Virgin Mary, believed to have been brought to the area from Asia Minor during a period of turmoil.
The monastery’s architectural style showcases a harmonious blend of Byzantine and local influences. The surrounding landscape complements the stone-built structures, enhancing the monastery’s tranquil ambience. Visitors can enjoy panoramic views of verdant forests and rugged mountain peaks.
MonasteryPanta Vrehei
This area is best for summer adventures in Karpenisi, as it is only accessible during that season via a river through a gorge. The name translates to “always rains,” reflecting the constant spray of water experienced throughout this adventure. The stunning waterfalls measure around 80 meters in length and cascade through the wilderness of Evrytania’s southern area.
The journey to this location involves some adventure, combining travel by vehicle with hiking along off-road paths. Get ready to reach a beautiful natural pond surrounded by mountains. Here, cascading waterfalls flow gracefully over rocks, creating a serene atmosphere. The lush green plants around the pond add peaceful scenery; perfect for nature lovers.
Natural WaterfallsSummer in Karpenisi
In addition to its popularity as a winter destination, the mountainous region is incredibly appealing to outdoor enthusiasts. Numerous hiking and off-road trails are winding through the surrounding forests, offering breathtaking views of the soft, muted greens of nature.
Explore the scenic forest roads by car for a comfortable journey, or by ATV, which allows you to navigate rugged trails and reach hidden spots that are often inaccessible by car, immersing you in the stunning landscape.
SummerThrilling Off-Road Tracks
Discover a beautiful route through Krikelo and Karpenissi mountain tracks and spectacular views while driving through on an ATV or 4×4. Experience lush forests, stunning waterfalls, alpine landscapes, lakes, rivers, stone bridges, and hidden paths. This adventure promises both thrill and relaxation! If you’re looking for the best off-road track, we’d love to help! Feel free to reach out to us anytime. There are many tracks, such as:
- Koniskos, Helidona, and Velouchi peak
- Forest of Agios Nikolaos through Xinithra
- Agios Nikolaos, Myriki, to the chapel of Prophet Elias
- Agios Nikolaos through Arvanitovrisi
Off-RoadVelouchi Ski Centre
Experience winter ski adventure at the Velouchi Ski Centre, located in Velouchi, at Diavolotopos on Mount Tymfristos, which sits at an altitude of 1,840 meters. It is only 12 kilometres from the town of Karpenissi. Velouchi is one of the oldest ski resorts in Greece. It is maintained carefully and features modern aerial lifts, quality snow, and night skiing on well-lit slopes. It offers an 80-meter indoor treadmill for beginners and a skiing carousel for children.
Due to low winter temperatures, the area has a long snow cover period. You can find a ski school that provides instructors and rental equipment. Or enjoy the lively snow bar, the “Ice Bar,” which hosts winter parties. Visitors can also stay in chalet rooms or a mountain hut, providing a majestic snow mountain landscape like Northern Europe’s.
Ski Resort