In the heart of the Pindos mountain range, at an altitude of 1,160 metres, Metsovo offers a perfect blend of natural beauty, rich cultural heritage and warm hospitality. The mountain town is an ideal destination for those wanting a peaceful weekend retreat.
Start your day with a leisurely stroll through the cobbled streets of Metsovo, where traditional stone-built houses decorated with colourful flowers line your route. The settlement's architecture reflects its rich heritage, offering a glimpse into the region's history.
Be sure to visit the Folklore Museum of Metsovo (Tel. 26560 41084, admission €5, Daily 10:00 – 16:00 except Thursday), which is housed in the preserved Tossizza mansion and presents a fascinating collection of local crafts, textiles and objects.
Take a walk to the outskirts of the settlement to see the Monastery of Panagia, built in 1754. In an idyllic landscape full of greenery, you will admire the stone monastery and the view.
In the centre of Metsovo, see the church of Agia Paraskevi with its ornate wood-carved iconostasis and majestic bell tower. As the sun sets, take a stroll through the picturesque square and choose one of the many taverns with traditional cuisine and local products.
The next day, explore the alpine landscapes and paths of unique beauty that start from Metsovo. Short or long trails start from the settlement, are easy and difficult, and will bring you closer to nature.
The Valia Kalda National Park, the artificial lake of Aoou Springs, the ski centre and many other points of interest around the settlement are available for hiking or even mountain routes by car.
More than 700 works by the most important Greek artists of the 19th and 20th centuries can be found in the E. Averoff Art Gallery in Metsovo (Tel. 26560 41210, admission €5, daily and holidays 10:00-16:00, except Tuesday).
Paintings, sculptures, engravings, drawings and photographs will take you on a pleasant journey.
It's time to get to know the local products, starting with the famous local cheeses: Metsovone, Metsovela, Geladisio, and Graviera are at your disposal in the town. Take home quality cheeses straight from their place of production.
You can do the same with Metsovo's famous wines. At Katogi Averof (Tel. 26560 31490), you will be guided through all the production areas and have the opportunity to see the over 1200 oak barrels in the cellar where the red wines mature. If you want, you can also arrange a wine tasting in advance.
Before you make your way back, don't forget to shop for souvenirs. Metsovo is famous for its handmade products, such as textiles, carpets and woodwork. Visit the local shops and markets to find unique gifts to take home and remind you of your time in this beautiful mountain place.
Accommodation
Stay in the rooms and suites of "Katogi Averoff" (Tel. 26560-42505) inspired by the winery's wines.
"Grand Forest Metsovo" (Tel. 26560-29001) is located outside the settlement, in the fir forests of Pindos and offers luxurious accommodation and many amenities.
At "Archontiko Metsovou" (Tel. 26560 29100), you will find traditional-style rooms and spa services, while at "Aroma Dryos" (Tel. 26560 29008), you will enjoy elegant and well-kept rooms, many of which have mountain views.
Food
For well-cooked and local meats of the hour (ribs, stuffed biftekia) and local specialties such as hilopites and metsovone saganaki, look out for "Metsovitiko Saloni" (Tel. 26560 42142).
You will have a nice view at " Koutouki tou Nikola " (Tel. 26560 41732); don't miss the kontosouvli and pork ribs.
The "Τα 5 φφφφφ" tavern (Tel. 26560 41843) is famous for its well-cooked meats in greaseproof paper, such as village sausage, kokoretsi and kontosouvli. The bouyurdi is also excellent.
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