Greece Self Drive 5 - Hidden Corners of Greece

Off the beaten track in Northern Greece

Summary

Lakes, Mountains, traditional villages, hilltop monasteries and the breathtaking natural beauty of Epirus & Western Macedonia regions.

START / FINISH - Preveza

Activity code: GRFD06

Duration: 10 or 14 days

This exciting new self-drive holiday takes a tour of the lesser-explored regions of northwest mainland Greece, focusing particularly on the beautiful regions of Epirus and Western Macedonia. Your itinerary can also include some of the most iconic locations along the way such as Meteora and Ioannina combined with simply stunning scenery throughout.

You can begin in Preveza as there are now many direct flights from the UK and other European nations or fly via Athens to Ioannina. Another starting point could be Thessaloniki and we can adjust the itinerary accoprdingly (possibly including either Mount Olympus or ancient sites such as Vergina).

This is our recommended route and has become a tried and trusted itinerary over the last few years allowing you plenty of time to enjoy the countryside as you travel. If you are looking for any modifications then we will be very happy to discuss a completely tailor made itinerary. All we would need to know would be approximate dates of travel, what standard of hotel you would prefer, and if there are any particular areas or classical sites which you would like us to include (or to exclude!) in your itinerary. Your holiday can be as active or leisurely as you please. Staying one night at each stop allows the maximum amount of sightseeing; two or more nights will allow you to do side trips, whilst staying in one place will give you the opportunity to relax and explore the local area.

Why not extend your stay with a relaxing few days (or longer) on one of Greece's most beautiful islands - Lefkas or the stunning resort of Parga - please ask us for further information or suggestions!

Not included: Overnight Stay Tax of 0.50 to 4 Euros per room or apartment per night, which is payable locally - the amount varies according to the category of the accommodation (i.e. most self catering and 1-2 star hotels = 0.50 Euros,  5 star hotels = 4 Euros).

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What's included in your fly drive holiday:

  • 8-14 days fully inclusive car rental
  • 7-14 nights' hotel & guest house accommodation
  • B&B basis throughout
  • Fully detailed itinerary with sightseeing and route suggestions
  • FREE travel app with all your documents, maps, weather and much more

Highlights

Itinerary

Fly into Preveza / Aktion Airport and pick up your hire car. Drive through the tunnel across the mouth of the Ambracian Gulf - the beautiful scenery of which will dominate the first half of your journey today. Continue via the small town of Preveza and maybe a visit to the extensive ancient site of Nikopolis prior to a drive along the shore of the Ambracian Gulf, with a brief detour to Arta. From Arta you can drive to Ioannina on the new highway or enjoy the laid back old road.

Overnight in Ioanina - 2nts B&B.

A full day to visit the highlights of this part of Epirus including lakeside Ioanina itself with its fabulous Ottoman old town and the island containing Ali Pasha's palace. Nearby is the incredible ruins at Dodoni and Perama Caves.

An interesting drive today up into the mountains to visit and stay in the fascinating town of Metsovo.

Overnight in Metsovo - 1nt B&B.

After a lovely morning in Metsovo it is time for a relatively short but scenic drive down to Kalambaka to see the increble sight of monasteries in the sky - the UNESCO site of Meteora.

A full day to do some hiking and exploring in the area as well as visiting one or more of the monasteries which are open to the public. Bicycles and e-bikes are available to hire if you are feeling adventurous.

Overnight in Kastraki - 2nts B&B.

From Meteora head north into Macedonia and the town of Grevena to join the highway; at this point you may elect to detour to Vergina with a possible extra night. Otherwise, head north to Kastoria or our suggested alternative location - Nymphaio.

Take a day to explore Kastoria and visit the Prespa Lakes National Park.

Overnight in Kastoria (or Nymphaio) - 2nts B&B.

Recommended places to stay

Time to travel back south and into Eprius once more; this time into the area known as Zagori. Drive via Konitsa into the heart of the Vikos - Aoos National Park and stay in Monodendri village.

A full day to hike in Vikos Gorge as well as visiting ancient bridges and traditional villages.

Overnight in Zagori region - 2nts B&B.

Drive down to the coast at Igoumenitsa (scenic route or via Ioannina and the highway). If you have a late flight then you can visit one of these places along the way - Sivota, Parga, the Necromanteion, Zalongo Monument en route to Preveza / Aktion Airport.

We suggest an extension of your stay with a few nights in Parga or Sivota on the mainland coast of Epirus or perhaps on the beautiful island of Lefkas, attached to the mainland via a causeway just a few kms beyond the airport.

Flexible Tailor-Made Holidays

  • We believe passionately that no two holidays should be the same.
  • With our flexible tailor-made holiday options you can travel at your own pace.
  • Rediscover a city, a resort or an island in a weekend or longer.
  • Take a small group tour or embark upon a more adventurous trip.

Why book a Fly Drive ?

  • Accommodation choices are small, independent or family-run properties which add significantly to your travel experience.
  • Stress-free arrival & departure transfer service.
  • Detailed driving directions, parking info, suggested routes & sightseeing ideas.
  • Fully protected for your peace of mind & financial security.

Why book Greece with us ?

  • More than 30 years experience in Greece
  • Unrivalled expertise of our local partners
  • Fly-drives & Island hopping holidays
  • Hiking in Crete, Pelion & Zagori
  • Professionally guided sightseeing tours
  • Personally chosen hotels, apartments & villas
  • 24hr assistance whilst in Greece