The Vikos Gorge cuts through the Zagori mountains of northwestern Greece in a dramatic sequence of near-vertical limestone cliffs rising up to 1,350 metres above the river below. It is one of the most spectacular natural features in Europe and forms the heart of the Vikos-Aoos National Park. The standard hike through the gorge starts at the village of Monodendri and ends at the village of Vikos, taking about five to six hours — challenging in places but not technical.
The views from the rim at Monodendri and Oxia lookout before you descend are extraordinary: the gorge opens below you, the stone villages cling to the opposite walls, and the Voidomatis catches the light far below. Spring and autumn are the best seasons — summer can be hot in the gorge floor and winter closes many of the routes.