Ioannina Tours
National Park Valia Calda (Metsovo, Aoos springs)
5

National Park Valia Calda (Metsovo, Aoos springs)

By Epirus Traveller
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The artificial lake of Aoos fountain is at an altitude of 1,350m, covers an area of 12km2 and was constructed in 1986 for the purpose of producing energy. It is located between two national parks, Valia Calda and the Vikos-Aoos Geopark. In the area there are many small natural lakes, mountainous meadows and forests of black pine that reach a height of 30m. and also beeches (Fagus). Species of orchids and wild daffodils (Narcissus) are spotted beside the lake along with bird species like black storks and ducks but also bears, wolves and foxes reside in the area and more.
Lowest price guaranteeReserve now & pay laterFree cancellation

Ages 4-75
Duration: 4–6 hours
Start time: Check availability
Mobile ticket
Live guide: English, Italian
More


  • Air-conditioned vehicle
  • Snacks
  • Bottled water
  • Video & Photos
  • Lunch break to taste local dishes is paid by the visitor.
  • Entry/Admission - Metsovo Central Square
  • Entry/Admission - Aoos Springs Lake


Start:Multiple pickup locations offered.
  • Ioannina National Airport King Pyrros, Leof. Grammou 135, Exochi 454 45, Greece
Pickup details
  • Transportation by car, to and from the activities, is optional and price depends on the distance.
Hotel pickup offered
During checkout you will be able to select from the list of included hotels.
    Airport pickup offered
    During checkout you will be able to select from the list of included airports.
    • Ioannina Airport, Ioannina Greece
    • Preveza International Airport, Λεωφόρος Ειρήνης, Άκτιο 300 02, Greece
    Port pickup offered
    During checkout you will be able to select from the list of included ports.
    • Igoumenitsa Port Authority, E55, Igoumenitsa 461 00, Greece
    • Syvota Square, Syvota 461 00, Greece
    • Parga Port, Parga, Greece
    • Preveza Marina, Λιμάνι, Preveza 481 00, Greece
    • D-Marin Lefkas Marina, East Shore, Lefkada 311 00, Greece
    End:This activity ends back at the meeting point.

      • Not wheelchair accessible
      • Pushchair accessible
      • Near public transportation
      • Infant seats available
      If you have questions about accessibility, we’d be happy to help. Just call the number below and reference the product code: 227429P8

      • Confirmation will be received at time of booking
      • Most travellers can participate
      • This experience requires good weather. If it’s cancelled due to poor weather, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund
      • This is a private tour/activity. Only your group will participate

      • For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours in advance of the start date of the experience.

      If you have questions about this tour or need help making your booking, we’d be happy to help. Just call the number below and reference the product code: 227429P8

      From
      AU$210.44
      per adult (price varies by group size)
      Select date and travellers
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      About the operator
      Don’t take it from us – here’s what people have to say about this operator:
      • Epirus Traveller
        40
        Greece
        Joined in December 2019
      • Anil M
        0 contributions
        5.0 of 5 bubbles
        Vikos Gorge Trekking with Alexis
        One of the best hikes we have ever done - roughly 15 km across three microclimates and through some of the most breathtaking views and vistas. Alexis, our highly knowledgeable and passionate guide was a veritable fountain of knowledge and insights. We hiked in December, and although it was cold, it was manageable. The planning was excellent - Alexis picked us up from our hotel in Ioannina, and we drove to the start of the trail - which was a combination of walking downward, several hundred metres to the bottom of the gorge and walking along the river until we eventually made our way out. Alpinezone is an excellent tour operator with many years of experience and the attention to detail was excellent. Alexis is a specialist mountain guide with 40 years of experience and over the 6.5 hour trek we covered topics such as geography and geology, history, theology and philosophy. He is also a former primary school teacher and retains his fascination for awe and curiosity, which is so refreshing. Fun fact - we spoke about the 4th Indian infantry division (Red Eagles) who served honorably in Greece immediately after the World War II.
        Written 22 December 2024
      • marialE7104YT
        0 contributions
        5.0 of 5 bubbles
        A comprehensive historical view of Preveza region
        The tour guide is very knowledgeable and patient. He will provide you with videos and photos of the trip. We visited Acheron River, Nekromanteion, and the monument to the women of Souli. We also visited a local beach, Monolithos, and an abbey.
        Written 13 August 2024
      • G658QUemmag
        0 contributions
        5.0 of 5 bubbles
        Gorgeous Destination, Excellent Guide!
        Absolutely wonderful trip, well worth taking! The monsteries and the landscape around them really have to be seen with your own eyes! I had been nervous about going on the tour after the friend that had been supposed to go along with me had to drop out at the last minute, but Ioannis, the guide, was absolutely lovely, and made me forget all about my worries about going alone. Friendly and knowledgable about not just the destination, but the whole area, he did an excellent job of making sure I had an enjoyable day (and survived the 42c heat), and even recommended a few things around the city that I could check out during the remainder of my trip. Thanks for the care and attention, I'll definitely book another trip with you next time I visit the area!
        Written 6 August 2024
      • DebbieF1315
        0 contributions
        5.0 of 5 bubbles
        Outstanding Epirus region travel guide/companion
        What a terrific experience we had with Ioannis Smiris, owner of Epirus Traveler this past month. Ioannis worked with me to craft a customized itinerary that focused on history and nature - we saw unique historic sites, the beautiful Zagori region, Meteora, Delphi and were then delivered to Athens. Throughout our travels, Ioannis regaled us with stories of Greek civilization and culture, took the opportunity to provide photos and videos summarizing our locations to help preserve our memories and was the consummate gentleman. His driving is impeccable and you will arrive safely at each location. The Epirus region is not as well known as other Greek areas, consequently, it is not quite so crowded (except for Meteora, which is spectacular). I was grateful for Ioannis’ assistance recommending lodging, all of which were outstanding, and also lunch spots where we were able to enjoy more authentic Greek food. Overall, this was an outstanding visit, and the next time we visit Greece, we will be sure to engage Ioannis/his team - especially if we are able to spend more time in the area as there’s still more to explore
        Written 7 June 2024
      • xeenslayer
        0 contributions
        5.0 of 5 bubbles
        Epirus and Vikos is a Must-Do in Greece!
        My wife and I signed up for a three-days hiking tour in the Zagori area with Epirus Traveller. In our two weeks in Greece, this was one of the top highlights! Ioannis was a fantastic organizer. He is very responsive and the whole planning process via email was very smooth. He also took the initiative to ask for a video call with us to finalize the plan before we went to Greece. He took note that we were not in the best physical condition due to earlier injuries and adapted the itinerary to be something more manageable for us. Hence we did three day-hikes based out of Ioannina, going to Vradeto steps, Beloi Viewpoint, Vikos Gorge, and also a circuit with beautiful stone bridges and villages around the gorge. Our guide Kostas was another amazing person. He was always punctual and reliable, taking good care of us during the hikes. He was also very open to share his experiences with us and we learnt the most during our holiday about Greek language, culture, and lifestyle from him! Thanks a lot for the friendship and company! As for the scenery, phew, what can we say. Very very impressive! We were also very lucky to have beautiful weather all three days. If have a few more days to spare in Greece, and if you are looking for something other than the usual tourist tours in and around Athens, definitely come here and do a tour in Epirus! This place also offers more challenging outdoor adventures such as rafting, canyoning, etc. Worth a try too but definitely do the hikes first!
        Written 2 June 2024
      • SvenskaMob
        0 contributions
        5.0 of 5 bubbles
        Extraordinary Epirus with Epirus Traveler
        We have just completed a week long tour with Epirus Traveler. The itinerary, which we put together with Ioannis Smiris, the company head, took us across the entirety of northern Greece, beginning in Thessaloniki, taking in Meteora and culminating with several marvelous days in the Epirus region, to the Ionian Sea. For Epirus we based ourselves in the wonderful mid-sized city of Ioannina from which so many interesting day trips are possible I have only positive reviews on Epirus as a travel destination. Considering that Greece receives so many tourists, this region feels positively off the beaten path. There is VERY little tourism in this corner of the country . With its unique history and endless opportunities for naturalists we were able to get a taste of something uniquely Greek, away from the mad rush of Athens and crowed beaches. Here life is unrushed, the mountains are splendid, the people enormously friendly, the food is purely delicious, the air is clean and fresh. What more can I say to sing its praises? As tour operators, Ioannis and his wife Ageliki give 150% of themselves. Their principle objective is to make your experience unforgettable. And that they did. They not only delivered 100% of what was promised on our pre-crafted itinerary, they allowed us to experience Northern Greece as an insider, a family member. Their warmth, energy level and work ethic is something very rare indeed and something we will never forget. This business is very personal for them. It's not a turn and burn situation. You will leave feeling that these people are your friends. And if you are like us you will leave with a little piece of Epirus in your heart. Highly, highly recommended.
        Written 9 November 2023
      • _t_themist
        0 contributions
        1.0 of 5 bubbles
        No public transport
        The town itself, the restaurants, cafes and scenery was indeed very good. It was all spoiled by the complete lack of public transport which limits the options for tourists without a car. We had to pay a fortune for taxis. As an example we paid 180 euro to go to meteora and 140 euro from aktion airport to Ioannina. To add insult to injury, when we went to meteora on ta Friday, the church was closed. The excuse that was offered for the lack of transport was, that because the students were on their summer break, there was no need for it. I would advise anyone who wishes to go to Ioannina or Preveza (because the situation was the same in Preveza), not to do so during the student's summer break. Unless you have a car stay away.
        Written 17 September 2023
      • dstarfarn
        0 contributions
        5.0 of 5 bubbles
        Best tour Guide in Epirus!
        Yiannis is fantastic. Passionate about this region, super knowledgeable and highly capable for anything an adventurer or sunday stroller would need, Very highly recommended for his excellent customer service, clean safe new van and instincts to find the best spots for photos, snacks and local restaurants
        Written 20 July 2023
      • MICKY B
        0 contributions
        5.0 of 5 bubbles
        Amazing
        I had wonderful 3 days with Yannis. First day we hike through the old bridges in Zagori area The next 2 days he took me to see some beautiful villages, pools, stone forest, amazing views including of course of Vikos Gorges from differents sides and Monasteries. On each place Yannis makes a video with explanations and photos - good memories❣️ He has a lot of patience! Yannis makes the programme according what you like to see or do. Super nice person, always prepared me a cold coffee or water and introduced me to each person we met on the way. You meet the real Greek people and I've met his wife too🤩 Many many thanks Had a wonderful time🙏🙏🙏🙏🙏
        Written 8 August 2022
      • VAabroad
        0 contributions
        5.0 of 5 bubbles
        Outstanding Tour Guide Service in Epirus Greece
        Epirus Traveller in Ioannina is an ideal choice for travelers to the larger Epirus region wanting to see the important sites, to hike, and to feel safe at the same time. I hired Mr. Ioannis Smiris for a seven day period and he was always prepared, prompt, and energetic. He picked me up in Thessaloniki and drove me to Ioannina, the capital of the region Epirus, via the the Macedonian tombs at Vergina and then Meteora, where we stopped at stunning Eastern Orthodox monasteries on rock formations. His hotel recommendation was a good one, for it was moderately priced but provided a clean and pleasant room with easy access to the lakeside area where the restaurants are. A highlight was his help with my desire to hike a long portion of the Vikos Gorge, which Ioannis knows very well. His support was crucial (I am a 65 year-old man). We saw many important sites that I wanted to see and also ones that he rightly guessed I would have an interest in. For example, we toured Zagori villages and saw stone bridges and visited the Preveza area. Mr. Smiris knows English very well and his van was comfortable and secure. Ageliki, Ioannis' wife, complements him well and she supported my trip in a number of ways. They are both affable and a joy to spend time with. I returned with many, many photos and videos downloaded to my cloud server and I look forward to sorting them out and reliving my trip. I am very pleased that I found Epirus Traveller, an excellent choice for visitors to the region. This trip was one of my life's best vacations. Thank you, Ioannis and Ageliki!
        Written 15 June 2022
      • ragsandrichestravel
        0 contributions
        5.0 of 5 bubbles
        Take a tour instead of a taxi!
        We had to transfer from Nidri to Parga and I discovered that for not much more than the cost of a taxi we could do a wonderful tour with this company. We visited the ancient city of Nikopolis where we discovered an open air theatre, Doric columns and beautiful villas. We hiked up to the monument at the top of a mountain commemorating the women who jumped to their deaths with their children to avoid capture, we walked up the River of Acheron and visited Hades in the Necromantion. What a day! It was amazing and we were dropped at our hotel by 5p.m. Ioannis was informative, professional and friendly. The minivan was comfortable and had plenty of water available . I thoroughly recommend this company.
        Written 15 June 2022
      • Carolyn J
        0 contributions
        5.0 of 5 bubbles
        A dream come true
        From being picked up at the airport through the trip ioannis and ageliki were not only professional but like family. It was very important for them to make this the best trip of my life, they were able to answer every question I had, they made history come alive , you could feel the passion in their voice and it was like actually being there so many years ago. Other visitors would come up to our group to hear them speak and ask questions. This will be your trip of a lifetime
        Written 17 May 2022
      • petercK2692ZG
        0 contributions
        5.0 of 5 bubbles
        UNFORGETTABLE TOUR
        Where to begin! My husband and I decided to spend a week in the Epirus region of Greece and luckily found Epirus Traveller to take us around the area. Our guide Ioannis picked us up at Preveza airport and we began an unforgettable journey of the region. Preveza is a small but picturesque seaside town close to Parga and from there we based ourselves in Ioannina to enable us to explore the many wonderful sites of the region. Ioannis was an excellent guide taking us to places of historical interest and local significance. The scenery is breathtaking and everywhere we visited had an interesting story to be told. We visited lakes, islands, gorges, one of which is in the Guinness Book of Records. Our journeys also took us to monasteries, churches, statues, museums and ancient sites. Ioannis is an experienced, safe driver with a very comfortable vehicle suitable for all terrains. His knowledge of the area is second to none and he has friends everywhere we went which is the sign of a good guide. He and his wife are very welcoming, friendly people rightly proud of their country and area and both speak English fluently. Not only do they tailor tours for older people like ourselves but they cater for those who are more athletic and want to hike, climb or spend time on water. We would highly recommend Ioannis and Epirus Traveller for exploring the area. Tours are tailored to individual needs, days can be as long or short as required. Prices will not break the bank. Memories and friendships will last forever. Thank you Ioannis and Angelique for a wonderful time in Greece. You’ll never be forgotten and You’ll Never Walk Alone!!!
        Written 12 May 2022
      • Lindasmiri
        0 contributions
        5.0 of 5 bubbles
        Everything was amazing!!!!!!
        We had wonderful time with this very kind couple!!! John and Angelique was very helpful and they informed us about everything we saw! We did a four-day tour around Ioannina city, at Tzoumerka and Zagorochoria villages. I recommend these beautiful people and I hope to see them again!!!
        Written 19 February 2020
      • AlexandrosDardoufas
        0 contributions
        5.0 of 5 bubbles
        Excellent Experience and organisational skills
        If you are planning to visit the vast region of Epirus, use Epirus traveller! With a variety of options, specially designed and organised, they are the definite choice!
        Written 17 February 2020
      See all 40 reviews
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      5.0
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      dimitristitopoylos
      1 contribution
      5.0 of 5 bubbles
      Jan 2020 • Couples
      Άριστη εξυπηρέτηση, εξαιρετική οργάνωση, παρέχοντας τις καλύτερες υπηρεσίες στις καλύτερες τιμές. Σίγουρα θα θα το πρότεινα σε φίλους και γνωστούς!!!
      Written 20 February 2020
      This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.

      PanosGeorg
      Kilkis, Greece26 contributions
      5.0 of 5 bubbles
      Jan 2020 • Couples
      Απίστευτη ομορφιά όποια στιγμή του χρόνου κι αν αποφασίσετε να το επισκεφτείτε. Η φύση στα καλύτερά της!
      Written 19 February 2020
      This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.

      xatzi65
      Kavala Region, Greece3 contributions
      5.0 of 5 bubbles
      Feb 2020 • Couples
      Η φύση στα καλύτερά της. Στο Εθνικό πάρκο της Βάλια Κάλντα στην τεχνητή λίμνη απολαύσαμε ένα υπέροχο τοπίο και η εταιρεία μας προσέφερε μία εμπειρία που είναι μοναδική. Στο παραδοσιακό χωριό Μέτσοβο απολαύσαμε τις τοπικές γεύσεις και ο ξεναγός μας, μας πήγε σε όλα τα ενδιαφέροντα σημεία της περιοχής. Ευχαριστούμε πολύ Epirus Traveller!!!
      Written 5 March 2020
      This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.

      geroukvag
      Athens, Greece3 contributions
      5.0 of 5 bubbles
      Dec 2019 • Couples
      Θα ήθελα να ευχαριστήσω την Epirus Traveller στα Ιωάννινα για την άρτια οργάνωση που υπήρχε στην πρόσφατη επίσκεψη μας με φίλους στα Γιάννενα και για τη άψογη περιήγηση που είχαμε στη Valia Calda, ευχαριστούμε για τις προτάσεις για φαγητό που μας έκανε τις τιμήσαμε δεόντως άλλωστε φάνηκε στη ζυγαριά όταν γυρίσαμε στην έδρα μας.
      Written 21 February 2020
      This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.

      Travel351339
      1 contribution
      5.0 of 5 bubbles
      Feb 2020 • Couples
      Περάσαμε τέλεια φοβερές και οικονομικές υπηρεσίες σε βαθμό που δεν το πιστεύαμε ότι είναι αληθινό αυτό που ζούσαμε :) σίγουρα θα μας δείτε και πάλι !!!!
      Written 19 February 2020
      This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
      *Likely to sell out: Based on Viator’s booking data and information from the provider from the past 30 days, it seems likely this experience will sell out through Viator, a Tripadvisor company.

      National Park Valia Calda (Metsovo, Aoos springs) provided by Epirus Traveller

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