aventuro Back to map A
Parks

National Park of Tzoumerka, Peristeri, Arachthos Gorge & Acheloos Valley

4.8 · 2,616 reviews
Rugged, remote, and geologically imposing.
National Park of Tzoumerka, Peristeri, Arachthos Gorge & Acheloos Valley, Greece
Interesting facts
1

The park contains the highest concentration of stone arched bridges in Epirus, including the historic Plaka Bridge.

2

The peak of Kakarditsa, located within the park, reaches an elevation of 2,429 meters.

3

The Arachthos Gorge is a designated site for extreme water sports, specifically white-water rafting, due to its technical difficulty.

4

The park hosts several endemic plant species that are exclusive to the Pindus mountain range.

5

The villages of Kalarrytes and Syrrako are protected as traditional settlements and are accessible via historic mule paths.

6

The park is a certified UNESCO Global Geopark due to its complex tectonic and karst landscape.

7

Balkan chamois populations in the park are among the most stable in Southern Europe.

Overview

The National Park of Tzoumerka, Peristeri, Arachthos Gorge & Acheloos Valley encompasses 820 square kilometers of the Pindus mountain range in Epirus, Greece. It is characterized by extreme topographic relief, featuring dramatic limestone gorges, alpine meadows, and the high peaks of the Athamanika mountains. The park serves as a vital habitat for rare wildlife, including the Balkan chamois, golden eagle, and brown bear. The Arachthos River carves one of Greece's deepest canyons, while the Acheloos Valley offers a distinct ecosystem influenced by its hydrological significance. The region contains traditional stone-built villages like Syrrako and Kalarrytes that preserve distinct Vlach architectural styles. The area is designated as a Natura 2000 site and a UNESCO Geopark, protecting unique geological formations and endemic flora. Water resources are central to the landscape, manifested in significant waterfalls such as those at Matsouki. Human activity is characterized by long-standing transhumance practices and the maintenance of historic stone arched bridges.

Photo spot

The view from the village of Syrrako overlooking the canyon or the Plaka Bridge during sunset.

Insider tips

Consult local mountain guide associations for trekking routes as high-altitude trails can be unmarked or challenging.

Carry offline topographic maps, as cellular service is intermittent or non-existent in deep gorges.

Ensure vehicle tires are suitable for steep, winding mountain roads with frequent hairpin turns.

What to avoid

Attempting to drive on unpaved secondary forest roads without a high-clearance 4x4 vehicle.

Good to know

Mountain passes and high-altitude trails are often inaccessible due to heavy snow cover from late autumn through mid-spring.

Etiquette

Strictly follow 'Leave No Trace' principles; do not disturb livestock or marked shepherd paths; respectful silence in monastery proximity.

Plan your visit
Typical visit
3-5 days
Best time to visit
Late spring for wildflower blooms and high river flow; early autumn for clear hiking conditions.
Address
National Park of Tzoumerka, Peristeri, Arachthos Gorge & Acheloos Valley, Greece
39.488, 21.200
Get directions
Details
Geological FeatureKarst limestone massif with deep fluvial erosion
Wildlife MonitoringKey site for Balkan chamois and raptor conservation

Frequently asked

Plan for about 3-5 days to see the highlights.

The best time to visit is Late spring for wildflower blooms and high river flow; early autumn for clear hiking conditions..

The view from the village of Syrrako overlooking the canyon or the Plaka Bridge during sunset.

Close by you'll find Souda Waterfalls, Holy Kipinas Monastery, Anemotrypa Stalactite Cave.