Pindos Mountains
Discover the Pindos Mountains – Meteora’s Natural and Cultural Backyard
The Pindos Mountains are the beating heart of mainland Greece — and they begin just beyond Meteora. Towering peaks, stone villages, deep canyons, and alpine rivers await explorers who go beyond the monasteries. This region is perfect for short escapes, nature lovers, and cultural travelers seeking authentic, crowd-free experiences.
Important 2026 access note (flood damage):
In the last seasons, severe floods in Thessaly and the wider Trikala–Meteora region have damaged parts of the road network, including mountain routes and some smaller village roads. Conditions can change after heavy rain, with occasional closures, rockfalls, or detours. GTP Headlines+3eKathimerini+3Athens News+3
Before you head into the Pindos mountains, always take updated advice from locals (your hotel, your guide, or local authorities) and check the safest current route for your specific destination — especially in spring melt or after storms.
If you want a worry-free day, we can arrange private transfers or guided nature trips with the best confirmed road access at the time of your visit.
→ Book a private transfer / local-guided Pindos day trip
About Pindos Mountains
Pindos is the biggest mountain range of Greece, stretching from the Greek-Albanian borders (NW) to the northern Peloponnese (SE). It is roughly 160 km long (100 miles) and is considered the backbone of mainland Greece.
Geologically speaking, the Pindos mountains are the extension of the European Alps on Greek grounds, as the formation of this volcanic mountain range dates to 65.000.000 years ago. The beautiful mountains of Pindos are morphologically enriched with steep slopes and deep canyons, while four long rivers stem from them (Arachthos, Aoos, Acheloos, Pinios). The Pinios river, flowing by the region of Meteora, is the third longest river of Greece (216 km).
The highest peak of the Pindos mountain range is called Smolikas and its elevation is 2637 m (8651ft). The mountains of Pindos allow for the formation of vast ecological zones such as the Valia Calda National Park, which is a protection zone for rare species of mammals, brown bears, wolves and deers. Vegetation-wise, they are forested with oak, fir, beech and pine.
What Makes Pindos Unique
Known as the “Spine of Greece,” spanning from Albania to central Greece
Home to rare wildlife (bears, wolves, eagles) and dense fir forests
Location of Vikos–Aoös and Northern Pindos National Parks
Culturally rich — filled with stone-arched bridges, monasteries, and Zagori villages
Planning to Visit Meteora and Pindos Mountains?
For more information about things to do in Meteora, Greece, check out some of our best experiences. Discover day trips from Athens by train, multi-day and half-day tours, and Meteora’s best outdoor adventure activities!
Afternoon Meteora Off-Road Buggy Adventure
Afternoon Meteora Off-Road Buggy Adventure – Explore hidden dirt trails & scenic backroads
Morning Meteora Off-Road Buggy Adventure
Meteora Off-Road Buggy Adventure – Morning Tour in the UNESCO Geopark
Travel Insights and Tips
Join Meteora Adventures and Outdoor activities
Family Escape
The top things to see in Thessaly
Frequently Asked Questions About Pindos
Yes — Metsovo and some parts of Zagori or Tzoumerka can be explored in a day. For a richer experience, we recommend staying overnight in one of the villages.
Yes, paved and well-maintained, but winding. In winter or rain, 4×4 or experienced drivers are advised. You can also book a private transfer with guide.
Spring (May–June) and autumn (Sept–Oct) offer the best weather, color, and crowd balance. Winter is stunning but better for experienced travelers due to snow.
Not always, but we recommend a local hiking guide for remote trails like Valia Calda, Vikos, and Smolikas — both for safety and to fully appreciate the landscape and wildlife.
Depending on the part of Pindos you visit, it ranges from 1.5 to 3 hours by car. Popular routes go via Metsovo, Ioannina, or Tzoumerka.
Read more from our blog
December 19, 2018
Ancient Meteora in the Dawn of History
Discover Amazing Things To Do
Meteora Sunset Tour With Monastery Visit & Hermit Caves 737 reviews
Meteora Sunset tour will guide you to the hidden side of Meteora.
Meteora Monasteries Tour: Half-Day Sightseeing Experience 613 reviews
Meteora monasteries tour will take you back to the dark ages and stories of the first monks.
Meteora Mid-Day Tour from Train Station 190 reviews
Explore Meteora on a guided mid-day train tour. Perfect for same-day travelers arriving in Kalambaka by train. Includes monastery visits & scenic views.
Meteora Full-Day Private Tour with English-speaking Driver 183 reviews
Book the Meteora full-day private tour and experience the spiritual and natural wonders of Meteora with a personalized itinerary, guided by an English-speaking driver.
Continue Reading
Meteora beauty: Meditating on the awe of creation and life.
How to travel from Meteora to Delphi
10 Things to know before visiting Meteora in 2022
Meteora Local Wines
