Discover Greece: The Magic of Metsovo
The scenery of the Pindos Mountains in northern Greece is captivating with its stunning and unspoiled nature, bustling mountain villages, traditional architecture, and rich history. Amidst this awe-inspiring backdrop, active travelers will find the perfect conditions to break free from the monotony of everyday life, while art and culture enthusiasts will also find plenty to enjoy.
Discover Greece differently: Why choose Metsovo?
Metsovo has established itself as a coveted vacation destination for Greeks and is increasingly captivating international visitors. The tranquil village exudes one thing above all: serenity. Strolling through the old alleys, immersing oneself in the pure countryside idyll, or enjoying exquisite red wine and hearty smoked cheese - Metsovo makes it possible. L'Officiel Austria presents the most beautiful experiences.
The wine tradition of the region is one of the oldest in Greece.
The Katogi Averoff winery (a short walk above the Averoff Gardens) has a special historical background that makes it a hotspot in Metsovo. Founded by Evangelos Averoff, a prominent Greek politician, he helped restore Metsovo to its former glory in the 1950s. Averoff had the vision to plant vines on the steep slopes of the Pindos Mountains and introduce the Cabernet Sauvignon grape to Greece. The winery he founded is now run by his grandson, who also operates a quaint boutique hotel and offers tours of the winery. At an elevation of 1,050 meters, the vineyards are the highest in Greece, and the wine cellars are full of artifacts that showcase traditional and modern winemaking processes. 1,200 oak barrels and a tasting room that could be considered an underground bar offer a true wine experience.
The Averoff Art Gallery is a fascinating museum showcasing regional paintings, photographs, and sculptures.
It displays the outstanding art collection of politician and intellectual Evangelos Averoff (1910-90), whose influence on Metsovo is still celebrated today. The 19th and 20th-century paintings depict historical scenes, local landscapes, and everyday life. Significant Greek artists such as Nikos Ghikas, Alekos Fassianos, and Perikles Pantazis are represented here. Most of the artwork was personally selected by Averoff, and the collection is considered one of the most important of its time. In addition to the permanent exhibition, there are frequently changing exhibitions that include retrospectives, art and photo collections from other museums and galleries in Greece and abroad. The museum also has a children's workshop that promotes creativity and imagination.
To get a sense of how the people of Metsovo lived (and endured the harsh winters in style), a visit to the Tossizza Museum is well worth it.
The late Ottoman mansion, built in 1661 and restored in 1954, is made of stone and timber framing and now houses the Tossizza Museum of Folk Art and Local Epirote Handicrafts. The typical building fascinates with small and large details: carved wooden works, magnificent textiles in vibrant colors, and handmade Vlach furniture. A guided tour through the mansion's rooms, stables, warehouses, and chambers is like a journey through time. Weapons used in the 1821 Revolution against the Ottomans, everyday items such as kitchen utensils and looms, silverware, other family heirlooms, and an impressive collection of icons adorn the house's rooms. The third floor is dedicated to Evangelos Averoff personally, with personal items and photos from his life.
The alpine beauty of Lake Aoos is an undisputed highlight of the region.
Here, a breathtaking landscape awaits you. The Aoos River Lake is located 20 minutes north of Metsovo and is the natural result of a dam project in the 1980s. The lake is approximately 12 square kilometers in size and surrounded by old black pines and robolas, together forming an impressive backdrop and an important habitat for birds and other animals. Outdoor enthusiasts have no limits: rafting, kayaking, mountain biking, or private hiking tours around the lake with Trekking Hellas are possible. Regardless of whether you cover part of the 32 km route by car or on foot, or join a kayaking tour on the lake, the experience will leave you with (nature) awe-inspiring memories.
