West Macedonia & Epirus Self-Drive Tour | Greece

Veroia was the second most significant town, after Aigai, during the blooming ancient Macedonian years. Aigai, today’s Vergina (12km away from Veroia), was the first capital of the ancient Macedonian Kingdom. At the Royal Tombs Museum of the ancient Macedonian Kings, which was proclaimed as a World Heritage Site by UNESCO, you can admire portable findings and wall paintings in an impressive underground construction. Philip II's tomb and the magnificent golden urn are the items that stand out.

Kalambaka is a small town in the middle of the Greek mainland. This town is dominated by the impressive Meteora, one of the most striking monuments in the world, protected by UNESCO. The rock monasteries have been characterized by UNESCO as a unique phenomenon of cultural heritage. Gigantic rocks at the top of which there are hidden Byzantine monastery. 

Start your exploration by following one of the organized trails leading you to the walls of the Meteora rocks. On your way, enjoy your walk through the forest that surrounds the rocks, and discover medieval ruins that vividly reflect how life used to be during the past. Visit some of the famous monasteries, take the hike to admire the natural beauty of the area. 

Ioannina, the capital of Epirus, spreads out around beautiful Lake Pamvotida. The natural environment, the climate and character of the town are defined by this stretch of water – the area’s trademark. The lake, with its still waters and its small island, is a natural monument, around which the entire area lives and breathes.

Visit the imposing castle of Ioannina the oldest Byzantine fortress in Greece with significant influence over the history of the town which grew around it. The routes around the lake offer exquisite scenery and plenty to explore. A tour by car is an experience to suit all kinds of traveller - there is much to see, much to learn about, and there is the serene calming effect of the lake. If time lets you, take a boat ride to the lake’s island, or visit the Perama cave. 

Spend a day discovering the Pindos national park, visit the traditional mountain villages of Zagorohoria with unique stone house architecture. Make a stop at Metsovo village, which is famous for its winery and wood art. 

Waterfalls are considered as one of the most impressive natural phenomenon around the world. Enjoy a visit to the most picturesque waterfall of Greece in Edessa town which happens to be the capital of Pella. The river forming this renowned Greek waterfall is Edessaios. The city is filled with little bridges and the sound of running water will accompany your strolls around the town.

Refresh yourselves, just 35 km away from Edessa. At the foot of Mount Kaimaktsalan, the Pozar Thermal Springs' facilities comprise 48 individual baths, 6 indoor pools, the outdoor pool (12x25m) hamams, jacuzzi and spa. Imagine yourself in a pool amidst steep rocks, natural waterfalls and wild vegetation. Feel the soothing warmth of the water (37⁰C) taking the strain off your body, and let your eyes wander around the verdant gorge where Agios Nikolaos stream flows, (aka Thermopotamos meaning 'hot river' in Greek). Recommended for rheumatism, skin conditions, respiratory and circulatory problems, the Pozar hot springs are beneficial for your health and well-being, either by bathing in them, or drinking their water.

A beautiful journey ends, after the check-out drive to Thessaloniki airport Makedonia for the flight back home. If time allows make a stop on the way at ancient Pella with its archeological site. You will certainly be impressed by the outstanding mosaic floors that used to decorate the city's grand mansions – the most famous are the ones depicting the Abduction of Helen, Rapture, the Amazonomachy (the battle of Amazons), and the Deer Hunt. You can marvel at these decorated floors (considered the most important group of mosaics in Macedonia) at the New Archaeological Museum of Pella.