WELCOME TO THE START OF YOUR ZAGORI LUX JOURNEY
"In the mountains of Epirus, the spirit of liberty has always found a fortress." Lord Byron
Tucked away in Greece’s rugged northwest, Epirus and the Zagori region feel like a well-kept secret—untouched, majestic, and timeless. Here, stone-built villages cling to green hillsides, connected by arched bridges and ancient cobbled paths. This is a living mosaic of 46 traditional villages where slate-roofed houses, Byzantine chapels, and local hospitality endure.
The Pindus Mountains rise dramatically, with misty peaks, alpine lakes, and the astonishing Vikos Gorge—the deepest canyon in the world relative to its width—carving through the heart of the land. The air is cool and pine-scented, the skies vast and clean. As Henry Miller once wrote “He who has not seen the wilds of Epirus knows not the true face of Greece; for here, the soul of the land is not found in marble, but in the mountain mist.”
"A landscape so silent that you can hear the heartbeat of the rock." — Patrick Leigh Fermor, Roumeli: Travels in Northern Greece
Your Journey
Day 1: Arrive in Athens
Day 2: Athens tour then flight Ioannina transfer to Aristi (B,D)
Day 3: Hunters of the Ice Age Walk (B,L,D)
Day 4: Vikos Gorge Walk (B,L,D)
Day 5: Astraka Refuge and Dragon Lake Walk (B,L,D)
Day 6: Gamila Summit (B,L,D)
Day 7: The Still Day: Rest, Wander, Watch, Refresh (B)
Day 8: Bridges of Zagori Hike (B,L,D)
Day 9: Transfer back to Athens (B,D)
Day 10: Transfer to next location (B)
Guest Portal
You can update all your personal information directly in our Guest’s Portal. There, you can add your Insurance, Flight Details, and anything else we need for the trip. When you first click on the link you will be asked to reset your password. Please use the same email address you used for your booking.
"The mountains of Epirus are the bones of the earth, where the gods once walked in thunder and silence." — Attributed to Ancient Lore regarding the Oracle of Dodona
Although our journey is in the home of the Olympics, you do not need to be an Olympic Athlete to relish this experience.
Basically the higher your level of fitness, the greater enjoyment you’ll find, and the ease with which you’ll get through each planned activity of the day.
That said, for anybody that does find the going tough and just wants to take a break or even a day off, there’s no issue with staying back at the hotel enjoying the garden and spa facilities or choosing one of the daily alternatives walks offered and guided through the hotel.
It’s your trip, and we want you to do it your way to gain the most enjoyment!
If you are a little unsure, or just want to discuss your own level of fitness with someone, please don’t hesitate to contact us.
A Day in the Zagori Highlands
Our team is dedicated to breaking days up into a combination of mountain activities, refreshing halts, and free time for relaxation, paired with a bit of local history and gourmet experiences.
Morning: Wake up in the stone-built hideaway of Aristi. After a breakfast of fresh pies, village eggs, and thick yogurt with mountain honey, we set out on foot.
The Trail: We wander through stands of pine and twisted, ancient juniper. We might trek to the Dragon Lake (Drakolimni) or descend into the green hush of the Voidomatis River gorge.
Midday: Lunch is taken in the quiet of a stone hamlet or back at the lodge, with the scent of woodsmoke and thyme lingering in the air.
Afternoon: Spend the afternoon exploring the 200-year-old arched stone bridges—once the lifelines of Zagori—or simply wandering the slate-roofed alleys of Aristi.
The Journey Highlights
Athens: A Capital of Contradictions: Begin beneath the shadow of the Acropolis, where history lives in marble ruins and daily life hums with strong coffee and passionate conversation.
Vikos Gorge: Hike through a forest so green it feels tropical, past tiny cliff-side chapels where monks once took refuge.
The “Grand Canyon” of Europe: Experience the scale of the Astraka Range, where ochre-and-red cliffs glow in the morning light like a cathedral sculpted by time.
Stone Bridges: Walk the “stone bridges trail,” a gentle path connecting villages through forests and over rivers, looking like a scene lifted from a fairy tale.
Getting There and Away
Athens is Europe's oldest capital city, with a recorded history of over 3,400 years—but settlements date back as far as the 7th millennium BC.
Transfers
To offer more flexibility to our guests there are no scheduled city transfers in Athens on your arrival day.
A pre-trek meeting is scheduled at 6 pm on your arrival day in Athens before you head out for your group welcome dinner. Rooms are ready for check-in after 3 pm.
Welcome to Zagori: Greece’s Best-Kept Secret
In northwestern Greece, far from the whitewashed icons of the Aegean, lies the Zagori—a region of such profound cultural and geological importance that it was recently inscribed as a UNESCO World Heritage Cultural Landscape. Tucked within the rugged Pindus Mountains of Epirus, Zagori is defined by its 46 “stone villages,” or Zagorochoria, which appear to grow directly out of the grey limestone cliffs.
The landscape is a masterpiece of “man meeting mountain.” For centuries, these isolated communities were linked only by a sophisticated network of hand-built arched stone bridges and cobbled kalderimi paths. These bridges, some dating back to the 18th century, still span the crystal-clear Voidomatis River, looking like stone rainbows frozen in time.
At the heart of the region lies the Vikos Gorge, a titan of nature officially recognized as one of the deepest canyons in the world relative to its width. To hike its floor is to enter a prehistoric cathedral of vertiginous cliffs and rare biodiversity. Whether you are standing on the edge of the Astraka towers or sharing a glass of tsipouro in a village square shaded by a thousand-year-old plane tree, Zagori offers a Greece that is silent, monumental, and entirely authentic.
Athens: From Ancient To Contemporary
Athens is a city where 2,500 years of history collide with a vibrant, modern pulse. Anchored by the Acropolis, which glows like a golden beacon over the skyline, the city invites you to walk through the “Cradle of Western Civilization.” Beneath the marble ruins of the Parthenon lies Plaka, a labyrinth of bougainvillea-draped alleys and neoclassical homes that feel like a village frozen in time.
Yet, beyond the ancient stones, Athens is a contemporary masterpiece. From the artisan coffee culture and bustling rooftop bars of Monastiraki to the world-class Acropolis Museum, the city balances monumental heritage with an electric, soulful energy. Here, every street corner tells a story, and every meal is a celebration of the sun-drenched Mediterranean.
Weather
The best time to experience the Zagori region is from late spring to early autumn.
Mild Temperatures: Late May and June offer mild weather perfect for hiking, with meadows starting to bloom with wildflowers.
Crisp Autumns: September and October bring cooler, crisp air and the scent of woodsmoke as the villages prepare for the coming winter.
Crowd-Free: Unlike the Greek islands, Zagori remains quietly untouched year-round, offering a true sense of solitude.
TRAVEL DOCUMENTS
The Vikos Gorge in Zagori holds the Guinness World Record for being the deepest gorge in the world relative to its width. It’s a literal "Grand Canyon" of Europe.
Insurance
Emergency Medical Evacuation Insurance is a requirement for all guests travelling on our expeditions.
Once you have booked an expedition we suggest booking your travel insurance as soon as possible to protect your investment and other associated costs. Trip cancellation insurance will reimburse you for any non-recoverable air or land expenses should you have to cancel your trip due to personal or family illness or leave the expedition early due to other reasons.
For our Australian guests, we are offering policies from NIB Travel for adequate cover, and you can contact our office direct, via phone or email, to obtain an insurance quote from us.
For guests travelling with us from outside Australia, please check Travel Insurance options within your Country.
If you should receive an injury 12 months prior to your travel date, you must contact the Insurance Company with details to ensure you are covered for this injury whilst travelling. Should you not do this and require medical assistance for this injury whilst travelling you may not be covered by the insurance company.
In the event that an aircraft evacuation is required, No Roads Expeditions will undertake to arrange the evacuation on the condition that the expenses are reimbursed by the passenger before departing the Country.
Note: Accidents caused by the inappropriate consumption of alcohol or drugs may void your travel insurance.
For policies purchased before 1 September 2026
No Roads Expeditions Pty Ltd ABN 49087049956 is a distributor of nib Travel Services (Australia) Pty Ltd (nib), ABN 81 115 932 173, AFSL 308461 and receives a commission for nib products purchased through No Roads Expeditions Pty Ltd. No Roads Expeditions Pty Ltd cannot give advice about nib products, and any factual information provided is not intended to imply a recommendation or opinion about nib products. Before you buy, please read the Product Disclaimer Statement, Financial Services Guide and Target Market Determination available from us. If you have a complaint about a nib product, see the Product Disclosure Statement for the complaints process. This insurance is underwritten by Pacific International Insurance Pty Ltd, ABN 83 169 311 193.
For policies purchased on or after 1 September 2026
No Roads Expeditions Pty Ltd ABN 49087049956 is a distributor on behalf of AWP Australia Pty Ltd, ABN 52 097 227 177, AFSL 245631, trading as Allianz Global Assistance (AGA). nib Travel Services (Australia) Pty Ltd (nib), ABN 81 115 932 173, AFSL 308461 acts as a third party administrator on behalf of AGA, managing claims, complaints, enquiries and sales. Terms, conditions, exclusions, limits and applicable sub-limits apply. This is general advice only. Before you buy, you should consider whether the product is appropriate for you, the Product Disclosure Statement (PDS), Financial Services Guide (FSG) and Target Market Determination (TMD) available from us. This insurance is underwritten by Pacific International Insurance Pty Ltd, ABN 83 169 311 193, AFSL 523921.
Get a Quote
While we don’t anticipate any uninvited medical disruptions during your trek, No Roads wants to keep your mind at ease and help you get adequate assistance and cover for your well-earned time away. It is extremely important that we ensure you’re covered during your great alpine experience.
We are able to provide you with Travel Insurance for your trip, allowing you to tick this off your ‘To-Do Lis”t as soon as possible. We strongly recommend that you take out baggage loss and accident insurance!
Already have a trusted insurance provider?
No problem at all! Our primary concern is that you have adequate cover.
Got a Pre-Existing Condition?
Simply notify us accordingly. After our team initiated your personal quote, simply call the NIB Insurance Team and they’ll complete an assessment on your behalf. In many cases, no additional premium will apply. Many common conditions are automatically covered.
Please note: Australia has a Reciprocal Health Care Agreement (RHCA) with Italy which may cover some of your medical costs in the Italian public health system. Click here for more information.
For all other nationalities please explore insurance providers in your country.
Again, if you’ve any questions, don’t hesitate to ask info@noroads.com.au.
Things to Remember with Insurance
A Credit Card/Travel Card that can be used internationally. Often, any medical centre or hospital will require payment sooner than some insurance companies will have approved payment (meaning you need to be able to pay them, then seek reimbursement from your insurer).
The international emergency contact number for your insurance company. We will initiate emergency procedures for you, however, it is a far easier process for you to coordinate matters with the insurance company directly (most things we are unable to finalise on your behalf).
Documents to keep on your person, or obtain in event of emergency:
A copy of your flight itinerary with information including – Ticket Number, Airline Reference Number (PNR), Agency Flight Reference Number (if purchased via a travel agency/3rd party as well as contact information for them)
A copy of a Medical report (if you required treatment) and keep copies of all receipts for anything that you have been required to pay.
Remember t
o travel with a copy of your policy or at least your policy number and provider
Immunization
COVID 19
Depending on your country of origin and port of arrival in Europe requirements are ranging from proof of vaccination, certificate of recovery, and/or proof of a negative PCR.
Please click here to identify the country-specific requirements according to your travel plans.
You may also find further helpful information in response to Coronavirus here.
No further vaccinations are compulsory for entry to the Schengen Zone. However, you should consider MMR (Measles, Mumps and Rubella) and a combination vaccine TDaP (Tetanus, Diphtheria, and Pertussis). We recommend that you ensure your tetanus cover is up to date. Depending on the season and the area of travel you might also consider a flu vaccination and other area-specific recommended vaccinations.
Please consult your doctor on these matters.
MMR (Measles, Mumps, and Rubella) Vaccine– Over the last decade, measles outbreaks have become more common in Europe. Protect yourself with this simple immunization.
TDaP (Tetanus, Diphtheria, and Pertussis) Vaccine– Due in part to immigration patterns, some diseases like diphtheria have resurfaced in Europe.
Flu Vaccine– Europe has been hit quite hard by the flu in recent years. If you plan on traveling during a high flu time (September to April) be sure to have the vaccine before you go.
Plan ahead for getting your vaccinations (seriously, vaccinations are one thing that should NEVER be left until the last minute when TIME can truly be your enemy). Some of them require an initial shot followed by a booster, while some vaccinations should not be given together.
Accommodation
Zagori is famous for its tradition of "Pites" (savory pies). It is said the region has over 178 unique recipes, traditionally made with foraged mountain herbs, wild mushrooms, and local flour.
Your Athens Base
Ergon House isn’t just a hotel; it’s the world’s first “foodie hotel,” situated at the foot of the Acropolis. Built around a modern-day Agora (marketplace), the ground floor is a bustling 10,000-square-foot glass-covered atrium featuring a butcher, fishmonger, greengrocer, and a vertical orchard.
The Experience: Guests live “above the shop” in rooms designed by leading Greek artists. Think natural wood, marble basins inspired by ancient craft, and Marshall Bluetooth speakers for a modern touch.
Dining: Forget standard room service; you have privileged access to communal kitchens where you can cook market-fresh ingredients or enjoy signature Greek dishes at the restaurant centered around a 200-year-old olive tree.
The View: End your evening at Retiré, the rooftop bar, where you can sip cocktails made with local spirits while staring directly at the illuminated Parthenon.
Stone Abode In Aristi
Perched at the highest point of the traditional stone village of Aristi, this lodge is a member of the Small Luxury Hotels of the World and a Five-time “World’s Leading Eco-Lodge” winner. It serves as your gateway to the Vikos-Aoos National Park.
The Design: The resort is a complex of stone buildings that blend seamlessly into the UNESCO-listed landscape. Rooms feature high wooden ceilings, cozy fireplaces, and Cocomat beds finished with luxury linens.
Wellness & Spa: It boasts the only full-scale spa in the Zagori region. After a day of trekking, rejuvenate in the indoor heated pool with floor-to-ceiling glass walls looking out at the Towers of Astraka—the massive limestone cliffs that dominate the horizon.
Gourmet Heritage: The on-site restaurant, Salvia, is an award-winning destination in its own right, serving “Epirotic” cuisine. Expect handmade pies, local trout, and world-class wines from the nearby Glinavos Winery, all sourced from the lodge’s own greenhouses and local farmers.
Packing List
There are over 160 hand-built stone bridges scattered throughout Zagori. They were built without any mortar or cement—just the perfect placement of stones and the laws of gravity.
Equipment
Trekking Gear
Gone are the moments of rage, scrabbling through your backpack in search of something. On this trip, you should exploit the advantage of staying in “The One Place” for most of the trip. You can bring as much or as little as you like.
Suitcases are recommended for this trip, although many travelers carry their luggage in a backpack. Alternatively, a sports-type / carry-all bag with a shoulder strap would suffice.
You will also need a good day pack when out trekking to carry a jacket and personal effects such as camera, sunscreen, water, snacks, blister kit.
NOTE: If you choose to take up the option of experiencing a night in a Refugio with us, you will also need a cotton or silk sleeping bag liner.
Travel Documents
International COVID 19 Vaccination Certificate (just in case)
Travel Insurance
Air ticket
Credit card
Spending money in Euro
Personal First Aid Kit
Your personal First Aid kit should contain Band-aids, Paracetamol, Deep Heat or other muscle liniment, Blister pads, Crepe bandage, Antibiotic cream for cuts and scratches, ‘Imodium’ tablets, Strapping tape (for knees and ankles) – optional if you might suffer from any known knee or ankle injuries, Anti-chafing cream, Pawpaw cream, Foot powder if needed, Waterless hand disinfectant, Anti-inflammatory cream, Broad-spectrum antibiotic tablets, Anti-Nausea Tablets.
We also recommend sharing a First Aid Kit if you are travelling in a group.
*If you have something you are particularly prone to, ear infections or sinus problems, bring what you need with you
Personal Items
- Comfortable daypack with a rain cover
- Waterproof bags for gear moisture protection in day pack while walking (garbage bags are fine)
- Water bottles or Camelbak system ( 2-3 liters recommended. Water is accessible from fountains and hotels along the way.
- Blister kit (see blister management), rehydration salts, and any personal medication you use
- Sunscreen, hat, and high UV sunglasses with retaining cord
Clothing
- Well worn in boots with ankle support, no sneakers on the trek – You are trekking in alpine terrain and will require shoes with a good grip especially in wet conditions.
- 3 pairs of walking socks
- 3 T-shirts (lightweight quick-drying tech fabric) or long-sleeved Trekking shirts
- 2 pairs of shorts and at least one lightweight pair of pants (for walking in – avoid wearing Jeans!)
- Sleeping gear
- Warm fleece, sweater, hat, gloves (cold mornings)
- Waterproof jacket & over-trousers
- Sun hat
Non-Optional For This Trip
- Walking poles (good for balance & taking the weight off your knees on descents).
Other Suggestions
- Trekking scarf (buff)
- Bathers
- Camera
- Spare batteries for camera
- Reading & writing material
- Pair of flip-flops/trainers for anything
- Knee brace or strapping tape – not essential but useful for injury
- Hand sanitiser
- Personal toiletries
- Snacks – though these can be purchased locally
- Book
- Swiss army knife or similar
- Mobile & charger
A Note On Your Boots
In Zagori you will encounter alpine trek conditions that vary from well-defined treks to gravel to rocky terrain. Unless you are a very experienced trekker or trail runner we highly recommend wearing walking boots with ankle support on the trek to prevent you from any injuries.
A Note On Your Daypack
Being in high mountains you should prepare for all eventualities with the weather. High altitudes will always be cool and if clouds set in it can be cold & damp. Expect 20-30 degrees Celsius at lower altitudes and at night temperature can fall below 10 degrees Celsius, so mornings can be cold. Better be prepared than sorry. Dress like an onion and take off/put on layers as required and store your gear in your day pack when not needed.
Personal Day Gear
- Comfortable day pack with a rain cover
- Water bottle or Camelbak
- Well worn in trekking boots with ankle support
- Preferred trekking cloth – shirt, pants, socks, trekking scarf (buff), sun protection hat with cord, sunglasses with retaining cord
- Walking poles
- Trekking gloves for blister protection if you use walking poles
Recommended Contents Of Your Day Pack
- Rain cover for your pack
- Blister kit (containing dedicated blister band-aids, moleskin if required)
- Rehydration salts (Hydrolite), and any personal medication you use
- Rain gear (jacket and pants) according to the weather forecast
- Preferred snacks, fruit, and nuts, muesli bars, lollies, chocolate
- Fleece or Vest for extra warmth
- Beanie
- Camera (optional)
- Personal spending money
For Last-Minute Supplies
There are several outdoor stores in Athens where you can purchase extras such as walking poles, day packs, etc. We will give you the address on arrival.
It's Not ALL Outdoor Gear You Need!
That’s right! We will be dining in some incredible places and maybe having a sundowner or two. So if you like to dress up in your finest, then please bring that lovely summer dress along and gents a light jacket and collard shirt never goes astray, even in the mountains. Remember, your not carrying these things so you can pack a few more nice items that make you feel special when you go out!
The Right Backpack
Your pack is a major part of your equipment and it is important that you carry a pack that is comfortable and suitable for your requirements.
Click here for more information on your day pack.
Blister Management
Walking for extended hours for multiple days may affect your feet. We have put together some helpful advice on how to care for your feet along the trek.
Last-Minute Supplies
There are a few good outdoor stores in Athens where you can purchase extras such as walking poles, day packs, etc. We will give you the address on arrival.
Our Team
Guides
To ensure an authentic experience No Roads is working with a dedicated local guide. Their local knowledge helps us to discover and immerse ourselves into the natural and historical heritage of the area.
While you need to ensure to get into an adequate physical shape for the trek your qualified guide will look after all the required preparation for trekking safely in the mountains while you enjoy an unforgettable and rewarding experience.
Your guide will enhance your trip by pointing out those things you might have overlooked, naming the flowers you are admiring, talking about local cultural diversities, and spotting local wildlife along the way.
Without our dedicated, locally-based team, our efforts to deliver for you the most immersive, enjoyable, challenging, and rewarding experience quite simply, would not be possible.
Tipping
Tipping Guidelines
- Restaurants: A 10% tip is customary for good service, but check if a service charge is already included.
- Pubs: Tipping is not expected unless you receive table service.
- Taxis: Rounding up to the nearest euro is appreciated.
- Hotels: Tipping is at your discretion.
- Guides: While not expected, tips are appreciated for exceptional service.
Click here to find more detailed information on how you can keep tipping in Europe easy.
We've Got You Covered
General Travel Advice
All No Roads staff and teams consider guest safety and wellbeing an absolute priority and always follow the travel advice and guidelines of the World Health Organisation (WHO) and Smartraveller. To further maintain the safety of our travelers, we promote good personal and hand hygiene along with adherence to safe food preparation practices.
Dietary Requirements
We are able to cater to all common special dietary requirements, however, we can not cater to vegans on this trip. Greece is well known for its excellent and typical cuisine. These regional diets include choices of pasta, potatoes, cheeses, cured meats, salads, and fruits. Due to this heavy gluten, cheese, and meat-based diet, the meal choices for special requirements might be limited depending on your requirements.
Please advise us prior to your departure if you have any food allergies we should be aware of.
Note: The No Roads team will do everything it can to support any allergies which might require a special diet by informing all in-country personnel and ensuring reasonable provisions are made for all meals. We do, however, suggest and encourage all affected guests to assist us by providing this information while traveling, in situations or instances where it may be required to ensure everyone has a safe and enjoyable experience.
If you do have an uncommon dietary requirement please contact our office directly.
Physical Preparation
Clinical studies have proven that the amount of time spent in nature, including activities outdoors, has an impact on their mental wellbeing and can even help improve symptoms of depression. Some clinically proven benefits of spending time in nature include the reduction of stress, blood pressure and improving sleep and energy levels.
Fitness
Exploiting the advantage of the STAYCATION guests may join as many of the daily activities they wish. Groups can travel at their pace and leisure taking frequent breaks set in the beautiful landscape along the way. This makes this unique holiday as hard or as easy as you want it to be.
However, if you are planning to join all of the daily activities and consider the daily elevation, it is no walk in the park and one should physically prepare for it. You’ll hike for at least 5-6 hours on some of the days carrying a light day pack. Some days descents can be demanding as some of them are in rocky terrain.
If you are planning on joining this trip, you must make special efforts to get in good physical condition for the trip. The fitter you are the more enjoyable you will find this expedition.
Every participant should have a health check with a medical physician to ensure that they are in good physical health prior to embarking on their trip. No Roads is not a medical adviser and we take no legal responsibility for medical or other emergencies that may arise on the course of a trek. As the service provider and hosts, we will take all necessary steps needed to evacuate injured or ill clients on the understanding that all costs involved will be paid to us before leaving the country (see Insurance).
To prepare safely and effectively for this trek in Greece you specifically need to train for a period of at least five to six months. We suggest that during your training you should undertake frequent training walks, which you will need to progressively increase in hiking time, distance, and elevation gain.
During your walks, you need to familiarise yourself with walking with a day pack (weight of 5-7 kilos) and your walking poles.
We will share a basic training regime and training walk suggestions in Australia as part of our welcome pack to help build your trekking-specific condition.
Expedition Grading
High Heart Rate Holiday
On our own expedition scale, the Dolomite Explorer is considered a High Heart Rate Holiday. Whether you are pushing up a mountain or doing other physical activities, this expedition is primarily focused on challenging yourself physically. There are sections that will certainly get your heart rate going and other sections that are quite easy on your heart but challenging for your knees. The sweetness of this trip is a good balance of activity and relaxation. The combination of well-maintained trails, excellent accommodation, delicious food, and only carrying a day pack makes this trek the perfect active holiday. The advantage of the staycation also offers the optional additional rest day if needed.
You need to be of average to high fitness for this expedition or willing to commit to training to take part. Contact us if you are unsure of your fitness level and we talk you through how to get trek fit best.
We've Been We Know
It’s time for a confession.
It took time to get this good at what we do!
This was never through a lack of trying, but the reality is after 21 years in sending guests across the world, we’ve learned a thing or two…
Here are a few more pointers we thought would be useful before you board your flight (or flights) to Greece!
MONEY
Slovenia’s currency is the Euro (€). At the time of writing, AUD$1 = €0.60.
Spending Money
Budgeting varies by traveler. Consider your habits for drinks, shopping, and souvenirs, as well as meals not included in your itinerary.
Cash and ATMs
ATMs accepting Visa, Mastercard, and American Express are common in towns but rare in smaller villages. It’s wise to withdraw sufficient cash in larger towns to cover expenses between ATMs. Most restaurants and shops accept credit cards, but always carry some cash as a backup.
Money can also be exchanged at banks, post offices, and some tourist agencies, although commissions may apply.
YOUR FELLOW TREKKERS
We ask you to be understanding of the various needs and preferences of your group – patience with your fellow travellers is sometimes required for the benefit of everyone’s travel experience. Remember too that you have responsibilities to the group. If you are requested to be at a place at a certain time, ensure that you don’t keep the rest of the group waiting. We have found time and time again that the very best trips we operate are those where the dynamics within the group work well. This takes just a little effort on your part.
COMMUNICATION
Mobile coverage in Greece varies widely—excellent in towns and cities but often unavailable in remote areas. To avoid high global roaming charges, check with your provider or consider a prepaid SIM card. Travel SIMs are available online, or you can purchase one at airports, supermarkets, kiosks, and petrol stations.
Free Wi-Fi is available in some accommodations, but speeds can be slow, especially in rural locations. Many remote stays may not offer internet access. Greece’s international dialing code is +30.
Recommended apps for cost-effective communication include: WhatsApp, Skype and Viber.
ELECTRICAL OUTLETS
Greece uses two types of plugs: a 2-round pin plug and a 2-round pin plug with earth clips. The standard voltage is 220V.
WELCOME MEETING & SAFETY BRIEFING
More information and guidelines will be given to you prior to the start of your expedition, either at your Welcome Meeting with our Local Guide in Athens or at the safety briefing with your local guide at the Aristi Hotel. Topics discussed then will include the following subjects.
- Scheduled treks for the week
- Mountain Weather Conditions
- Equipment
- Meals, and other conditions while on expedition (Lunches at local huts, etc).
- Safety procedures.
- Evacuation Procedures.
- Cultural and Environmental Considerations.
- Other relevant information.
Note: You will be provided with a complete trip joining document with relevant contact details of hotels, guides, and more, approximately two weeks prior to the departure of your trip.
Napoleon Bonaparte was so impressed by the warm, waterproof wool capes made by the craftspeople of the Epirus villages (Syrrakiotiki Kapa) that he ordered dozens for his own army.
Sustainable Travel
We believe strongly in low impact or rather a positive impact from tourism. Broadly speaking, this means that we try to minimise the negative aspects of tourism on the local cultures and environments that we visit and highlight the positive aspects. Please see our online policy for more details on our social and environmental approach and commitment.
The Environment
Many of the places you will visit are pristine. As travelers, we should try to have as little impact on these natural environments as possible. As such we recommend the following:
- Please do not dispose of plastic bags and wrappers in the countryside along the way. These may be put in your backpack and disposed of at your local hotel at the end of the day.
- Follow the well-marked walking tracks and avoid walking through grassland and regrowth areas.
- Do not touch or feed any wildlife spotted on the way as you might cause severe harm to the animal.
By abiding by these simple guidelines, you will be protecting the local environment for the people who live there and for their children’s children.
The Local Community
Our philosophy and aim are to pay back to the local communities.
No Roads are dedicated to supporting local environmental projects in the places we visit. A $20.00 donation of each expedition booking is going towards a local charity project. For more information please visit our charity tab on the top of each expedition page.
Expedition Extensions
The friendly and professional No Roads Team is dedicated to ensuring your pre-and on-trip experience is as enjoyable as possible. We will be here to provide support for all aspects of your expedition!
Having handpicked all of our trips we are happy to dip into our pool of knowledge to help you with any extension bookings, adventurous or relaxing alike. Our local guides might also have some insider tips to share.
Please contact us for more information.
Simply specify your extension preferences and time period. We will then get back to you with some exciting options.
Want to break up the journey?
Living in a place like Australia or the United States often means long-haul travel, but why not turn that into an adventure? Instead of enduring a 24- hour journey in one go, why not break it up with a mini holiday before your main trip even begins? The No Roads Team has curated a special selection of travel extensions to help you make the most of your journey, transforming layovers to unforgettable experiences.
Click here for information on our selected “The Journey is just part of the Adventure” extensions.
Govorim malo slovensko!
Mount Triglav is Slovenia's highest peak at 2864m and is found in the National Park names after it.
A little effort to speak like a local can be a great icebreaker (as you stumble over the few words you remember) and is always appreciated by those whose homeland you are visiting.
SOME USEFUL (AND INTERESTING) words to impress the locals along the trek
| English | Greek (Phonetic Pronunciation) |
| Hello / Goodbye | Yassas (YAH-sas) |
| Good morning | Kalimera (kah-lee-MEH-rah) |
| Good evening | Kalispera (kah-lee-SPEH-rah) |
| Please / You’re welcome | Parakalo (pah-rah-kah-LOH) |
| Thank you | Efcharisto (ef-hah-rees-TOH) |
| Yes | Ne (neh) — Careful, sounds like “Nay” |
| No | Ochi (OH-hee) |
| Excuse me / Sorry | Sygnomi (see-GHNO-mee) |
| Do you speak English? | Milate Anglika? (mee-LAH-teh ang-lee-KAH?) |
| I don’t understand | Den katalaveno (then kah-tah-lah-VEH-noh) |
| The bill, please | Ton logariasmo, parakalo (ton lo-gah-ree-as-MOH) |
| Cheers! (To our health) | Stin ygeia mas! (steen ee-YEE-ah mas) |
| Water | Nero (neh-ROH) |
| Delicious! | Nostimo! (NOHS-tee-moh) |
| Where is…? | Pou ine…? (poo EE-neh) |
| The bathroom | To banio (toh BAN-yoh) |
| How much is it? | Poso kani? (POH-soh KAH-nee?) |
| Help! | Voithia! (voh-EE-thee-ah!) |
| Slowly | Siga-siga (see-GAH see-GAH) — Essential for hiking! |
| Beautiful | Oreos (oh-REH-os) |
Checklist
Please make sure you have the following items before you travel to the airport for your flight to Greece.
1. Luggage – On this trip, it is all up to you whether you prefer to take a suitcase, a backpack, or a duffel bag for your personal clothing and equipment
2. Day pack (backpack)
3. Comfortable, worn-in hiking boots.
4. Valid passport.
5. Proof of Grant of your Schengen Visa if required.
6. Photocopy of the main page of your passport.
7. Photocopy of your COVID 19 Vaccination Status in addition to any proof on your mobile device.
8. Return Airfares and other travel documents.
9. Hard copy or digital Medical/Travel insurance Documentation/ Certificates plus 1 copy of your policy.
10. Credit cards, cash dollars (or travellers cheques) for expenses while travelling.
11. Personal First Aid Kit
12. Personal Medication
Give Us A Shout
NO ROADS EXPEDITIONS
Office: (03) 95988581
24 hrs Access:
Irene Miller + 61 430 705 222
Peter Miller + 61 425 726 623
Email: info@noroads.com.au