Local Highlights

Top spots around Kalambaka & Kastraki for culture, nature, and easy day trips.

Natural History & Mushroom Museum, Kalambaka

Natural History & Mushroom Museum

A fun, modern museum—great for families and mushroom lovers.

  • Hands-on exhibits, local wildlife & fungi
  • Gift shop with gourmet mushroom products
  • Short, engaging visit (60–90 min)
Church of the Dormition, Kalambaka

Church of the Dormition

Early Christian basilica with rare marble spolia and icons.

  • Historic 6th–11th century features
  • Quiet, atmospheric interior
  • Short walk from the guesthouse
Meteora Digital Projection Center

Meteora Digital Projection Center

A 3D journey through Meteora’s history, geology, and monastic life.

  • Short films in multiple languages
  • Immersive experience with modern tech
  • Perfect introduction before visiting the monasteries
Hermitages carved into Badovas cliffs
Wooden niches and ladders on rock face
View near Kastraki

Hermitages of St. Nicholas Badovas & St. Anthony

Lesser-known ancient hermitages carved into the Meteora cliffs. Not open to the public, but impressive to view from outside.

  • What you’ll see: Cliff-side niches, remnants of wooden ladders and shelters used by early ascetics.
  • Two sites: St. Nicholas Badovas & St. Anthony hermitages.
  • Access: Roadside pull-offs and short paths near Kastraki; view only from outside.
  • Tip: Wear sturdy shoes and keep a safe distance from the rock face.

These hermitages likely predate the major monasteries and hint at Meteora’s earliest monastic life.

St. George Mandilas rock with scarves

St. George Mandilas

A unique Meteora tradition where locals and climbers hang scarves on the rock to honor St. George.

  • Located near Kastraki village
  • Annual festival each spring (April 23rd)
  • Scarves symbolize prayers and wishes
  • Atmospheric hike through the foothills
Theopetra Cave entrance

Theopetra Cave

One of the most significant prehistoric sites in Greece, with evidence of human presence dating back 130,000 years.

  • Located just 4 km from Kalambaka
  • Finds include the world’s oldest known wall (23,000 years old)
  • Archaeological discoveries span Paleolithic to Neolithic periods
  • Small museum nearby displaying artifacts
Kastraki Village under the rocks

Kastraki Village

Traditional stone houses, tavernas, and trailheads under the cliffs.

  • Evening strolls & local food
  • Access to St. Nicholas & Rousanou trails
  • Beautiful sunset light on the rocks
Meteora scenic lookout

Meteora Scenic Viewpoints

Easy pull-outs along the ridge road—perfect for photos.

  • Best light: sunrise & sunset
  • Never block bends; use marked bays
  • Bring a light jacket—can be breezy
Trikala riverside

Day Trip: Trikala

Charming riverside town with cafes, bike lanes, and a castle.

  • Litheos river walks & bridges
  • Old Town & Varousi district
  • Great for brunch & shopping
Metsovo mountain town

Day Trip: Metsovo

Stone-built mountain town—cheeses, wines, and cool alpine air.

  • Traditional square & mansions
  • Local cheeses (metsovone) & wine
  • Scenic drive via Egnatia Highway