Hidden in the lush forests of Epirus, Greece is a little-known cultural gem: The stone villages of the Pindos Mountains.

Centuries ago, master stone masons built an intricate network of stone bridges, stone paths, and stone stairs connecting these tiny mountain villages (choria, χωριά).

Nowadays, Epirus’ larger mountain communities can be reached by locals and visitors alike via car or bus.

In particular, the lower Zagori villages have become better known and offer somewhat more infrastructure since UNESCO named Zagorochoria a World Heritage Site in 2023.

But other mountain villages remain accessible on foot along the historic stone-built bridges, paths, and stairs.

However you arrive, to enter the Tzoumerka, Mastorochoria, or Zagorochoria is to travel back in time.

Here you immerse yourself in traditional village life and Greek hospitality (philoxenia, φιλοξενία) in harmony with natural rhythms.

The experiences here are enchanting. They’re magical and memorable. And yet, they’re real.

It’s an irresistible invitation to discover Greece in a different way. Different from Athens, Santorini, Mykonos, and other fabulous, famous destinations.

Several years ago, Paul and I fell in love with mountainous Greece, its villagers, and their stories. When we’re away from Greece, her mountains now whisper in our dreams.

So, over the next few weeks, we’ll send you some “postcards” from Epirus and other lesser-known regions of Greece.

Because we think you may fall in love, too.

Until next time, Reader,

Travel on, sparkle on, meaningfully✨

Marilee + Paul
​Spotlight Sojourns® | Slow Travel
with the Hidden Gemologists®

PS: If you’d like to learn more about Epirus, click HERE to read “Regions of Greece: Maps and an Easy Overview.”​

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