After a short rest by the pond, I returned to the “main” road and turned left towards Miliotades. The road is narrow and full of turns, and just a few minutes before arriving at Militades we will meet the beautiful stone bridge of Tsipiani ( see photo below). There is nothing really interesting to see in the village, so I continued turning left on the small and very interesting road to Karies / Anthrakitis…

After the old army bridge with the wooden deck, the road climbs to the slopes of Mt. Mitiskeli, offering great views of the Zagori area. The villages here are not tourist destinations, and some of them are deserted during winter, with few people coming here for summer, so finding a place to stay or eat might be difficult…

The next villages (Kalouta, Manassis and Dikorifo) are truly magnificent: The old, big stone build mansions, the imposing churches and the scenic squares blend into the natural environment with a unique way – and the absence of tourist really make a visit here a true experience…

The road then continues to Elati, and it is fantastic: Hundreds of turns into dense forest with astonishing views to the valley of Zagoritiko river – a paradise for motorcycle touring…
Elati is another beautiful village, and the difference is that here you can find some very good places to spend the night or enjoy a great meal with local dishes, without crowds and noise…

From Elati, it is easy to get to main road that connects Ioannina with Zagori area, and this is what I did, as I had to return home sometime…From Ioannina I entered the old road to Metsovo with the fantastic views of the lake and the great curves, to meet “Egnatia Odos” after the bridge of Balntouma. From here, is less than 20 minutes I was in Metsovo, and close to Katara Pass, that I haven’t pass for years…

The part of Katara Pass from Metsovo to the highest point is not in very good condition and needs attention, as there are lots of huge potholes and cracks, but after that the road is in very good condition. If you ride the pass, just a couple of kilometres after the highest point, there is a spring on your right hand, where you can find fresh and very cold spring water…
The road leads down to Kalampaka and the famous Meteora, but as I was heading back to Thessaloniki I soon turned into “Egnatia Odos” and headed home.

Thanasis

I love to ride and I love to explore the small villages, hidden attractions and forgotten roads of mainland Greece. I will be more than happy to share my knowledge and show you all these magnificent places!

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