Menu
DAY 1 – ITALY – THESSALONIKI – KASTORIA
Meet your guide and driver in the early afternoon at the airport or in the city (location to be confirmed according to flight schedules) and depart for Kastoria (approximately 2.5 to 3 hours).
At sunset, on the shores of Lake Orestiada, fishermen throw the remains of their catch into the water, attracting a remarkable natural spectacle: the majestic arrival of pelicans.
Overnight stay in Kastoria.
DAY 2 – PRESPA LAKES
Morning departure for the Prespa Lakes, located north of Kastoria on the borders of Greece, Albania, and North Macedonia.
Hike starting from Agios Germanos through reed beds and wetlands, an excellent area for birdwatching and observing this unique ecosystem.
Return to Kastoria. Easy hike.
DAY 3 – PINDUS NATIONAL PARK
Early morning departure for Pindus National Park (approximately 3.5 hours). Trekking excursion in the Zagori region, famous for its traditional stone villages and historic arched bridges.
Visits to Monodendri, Vikos, and Papingo. Moderate hike.
DAY 4 – ZAGORI – VIKOS GORGE
Excursion to Vikos Gorge, located within Vikos-Aoos National Park in the Zagori region. It is considered one of the deepest and most spectacular canyons in the world, narrowing in places to only a few metres wide. The cliffs, rising up to 1,000 metres, are covered with oak, beech, and pine forests, while lower elevations feature flowering meadows and aromatic plants.
Return to the hotel. Moderate hike.
DAY 5 – METEORA
Morning departure for Kalambaka (approximately 3 hours). Upon entering Thessaly, the enormous rock formations of Meteora immediately dominate the landscape. This extraordinary site is one of the most important centres of Orthodox spirituality, renowned for its monasteries perched high above the valley.
We will explore several of these remarkable monasteries on foot, following the ancient paths once used by monks while enjoying the surrounding natural beauty.
Easy hike.
DAY 6 – METEORA
Another fascinating day of walking along trails and climbing long stairways leading to the monasteries. The pace will be relaxed, making this a moderate to easy excursion.
Late afternoon departure for the Mount Olympus region.
Overnight stay in Litochoro.
DAY 7 – MOUNT OLYMPUS – ENIPPEAS GORGE
Full-day trek through the Enippeas Gorge. The guide will share stories of the area’s history, mythology, flora, and fauna within Mount Olympus National Park. The route follows a rocky trail with a significant descent. While there are no technical difficulties, the terrain, distance, and elevation change classify the hike as challenging.
Technical Information: approximately 12 km, +410 m / -950 m.
In the late afternoon, free time to relax, visit Litochoro Beach, or independently explore the archaeological site of ancient Dion.
DAY 8 – VERGINA – NAOUSSA
Today we leave our hiking boots aside for a day focused on culture and local traditions.
We travel to Vergina, the ancient capital of the Kingdom of Macedon, where a guided visit includes the archaeological site, the Royal Tombs, and the treasure of Philip II, father of Alexander the Great.
Macedonia is also a renowned wine-growing region, and Naoussa is famous for producing the prestigious Xinomavro grape variety. Visit to a local winery, including a guided tour and wine tasting.
Continue to Thessaloniki.
DAY 9 – THESSALONIKI
Discover Thessaloniki, the capital of Macedonia and a historic crossroads between East and West. Guided exploration of the historic centre, tracing the legacy of Roman, Byzantine, and Ottoman civilizations.
Later, enjoy a walk along the city’s elegant waterfront, visiting the White Tower, the Modiano Market, and the Ladadika district.
In the late afternoon, we climb to the ancient walls of Kastra, wandering through narrow streets and hidden corners while enjoying spectacular sunset views over the city.
DAY 10 – DEPARTURE
Free time and departure according to individual flight schedules.
Please note: The itinerary may be modified depending on weather conditions or other circumstances beyond the control of the guide or tour leader.
Tour Operator: Natura da Vivere by A.R.D.E.A. s.c.r.l. – Nature Travel Specialists.
9 nights' accommodation with breakfast included<Private minibus transportation throughout the tour (except during the days in Thessaloniki)Italian-speaking local guide/tour leader for the entire tourWine tasting at a local wineryMedical, baggage, and public liability insurance
Flights and airport taxesLunches and dinnersEntrance fees to archaeological sites and monumentsTransportation within Thessaloniki, which will be by foot, public transport, or taxiPersonal expenses and extrasAnything not specifically listed under “What's Included”About the Logistics: Flights are not included. Direct connections from Italy to Thessaloniki are available with Ryanair, while Aegean Airlines also operates various routes, although schedules may change. Our flight department can assist in finding the most suitable option. Transportation within Greece will be by private minibus. In Thessaloniki, travel will be on foot or by public transport. Accommodation will be in family-run guesthouses, hotels, or hostels, in private rooms with en-suite bathrooms. During the tour, accommodation changes four times, so easily manageable luggage is recommended.
Excursions: Hiking boots and suitable outdoor clothing are required for all excursions. Most hikes are easy and accessible to anyone who enjoys walking, with limited elevation gain. Excursions in the Pindus Mountains and on Mount Olympus are more demanding, graded E or EE according to the Italian hiking classification system. Participants may choose to skip the more challenging hikes or complete only part of the route.
Small Group Supplement: If the group has fewer than 8 participants, a supplement may apply. Participants may decide whether to accept the supplement or withdraw from the tour.
Large Group Discount: A discount will be applied if the group reaches 12 participants.
Registration Deadline: 10 days before departure.
Additional Costs:
Type of Tour: Small-group journey accompanied by Italian-speaking local guides.
Activities:
Accommodation: Small, mostly family-run properties with private rooms and en-suite bathrooms. Breakfast included.
Guides and Tour Leaders: An Italian-speaking local hiking guide will accompany the group throughout the journey. In addition to guiding the naturalistic excursions, the guide will enrich the experience with stories about local culture, history, and traditions. In Thessaloniki and Vergina, the group will be accompanied by a licensed local cultural guide.
Meals: Breakfast is included every day, as well as the lunch/tasting experience at the winery. Other dinners are left at leisure, allowing participants to enjoy the many traditional tavernas and local restaurants. Lunches will generally be simple meals or packed lunches depending on the daily itinerary.
Climate and Clothing: The journey includes environments ranging from city visits to high mountain areas. Expect varied temperatures and weather conditions. On Mount Olympus, excursions take place between approximately 1,000 and 1,500 metres of altitude. Hiking boots are essential, and Nordic walking poles are strongly recommended, particularly for the long descents. Comfortable city shoes are also recommended for Thessaloniki.
Write to us to receive information about our tours or to design your next journey together.
Via Manzoni 56 – 20900 Monza (MB)
Tel +39 039 832716
betania@betaniatravel.it
Aut. n. 16143 Prov. MB
Ass. RC 8827666 – P.I./C.F. 03140200969
.svg){kind=small}
