The hermit caves of Badovas are very close to Kastraki village. Between the village and the town of Kalabaka, surrounded by immense rock pillars lays the small valley of Panaghia (Virgin Mary). It stretches between two large rock formations called Pyxari and Amparia and a few other smaller rocks which almost completely engulf it from all three sides.
The locals know this place by the name of Badovas or the hermit caves of Badovas. Badovas is the name of a nearby restored but abandoned small monastery dedicated to St. Nikolas or Agios Nikolaos of Badovas. The monastery was likely built back in the mid 14th century into a natural big cavity existing on the side of a cliff that nowadays bears the same name.
In the center of the valley lies the old chapel of Panaghia from the 19th century. At the foot of the high rock of Pixari is the skete of Aghios Antonios, partially built inside the large cavity on the foothills of the rock.
In the old days, this skete was accessible through a cave that existed right below it, where a wooden ladder connected it with the upper cave. Next to it, placed on the same cliff, are the hermit caves of Agios Grigorios or St. Gregory. The hermit caves of Badovas are the place where the last of the hermit monks of Meteora lived more than 2 centuries ago.
Today, the wooden ruins of ladders and other scaffolds still remain, perched high up on the cliff of Pyxari. A stark reminder of the physical and spiritual effort monks put in this place for centuries! The hermit caves of Badovas with the small monastery are one of the few places in the world that someone can witness all three types of monasticism within the Greek Orthodox Church, co-existing today side by side…
Owing to the magnificent view of this location, a new district with traditional houses, small but modern hotels, and well-known tavernas emerged around the foothills of the cliffs surrounding the hermit caves of Badovas, in the picturesque village of Kastraki.
Best time to avoid crowds
The Hermit Caves of Badovas are usually peaceful compared to the main monasteries, but early morning or late afternoon is still best. The softer light makes the rock formations more atmospheric, and the route is more comfortable outside the hottest hours of the day.
Best nearby monastery to combine with Badovas
Combine the Hermit Caves of Badovas with Agios Nikolaos Anapafsas Monastery or the old chapel of Doupiani. This area works beautifully as part of a quieter Kastraki-side route focused on Meteora’s hermit tradition, chapels, and rock shelters.
Photography tip
Use a wider composition that shows the caves within the larger rock landscape. The most powerful photos are not only of the openings themselves, but of how small and remote they look against the massive Meteora cliffs.
Parking / access tip
Access is usually on foot, and the paths can be uneven, rocky, or unclear in places. Wear proper walking shoes, carry water, and avoid going in very hot weather or after rain. The caves are historic religious sites, so explore respectfully and do not climb into areas that feel unsafe or restricted.
A: Yes, though not formal tourist sites, the caves can be reached by trail. No ticket is required.
A: Not mandatory, but highly recommended for safety, historical context, and discovering the best viewpoints.
A: Badovas was home to solitary hermits, not organized monastic communities. It offers a rawer, more ascetic atmosphere.
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