Thesprotia

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Covering the north western part of Epirus and having a population of about 45,000 residents, Thesprotia Prefecture is one of the most impressive ones in terms of natural beauty and organized tourist industry. It is gifted with a fertile soil, emerald green forests, mythical rivers such as Acherontas (Acheron)-one of the five rivers that led to the underworld according to ancient Greeks-, high ranges and gorgeous sandy beaches. Medieval Castles and byzantine churches, archaeological sites and tombs, scenic villages and watermills and modern towns are all blended and scattered in this land.

Igoumenitsa, the capital of the prefecture is a picturesque town surrounded by green scenery. Its natural harbour is bustling with life since it is the main port of Epirus and the one that connects this part of Greek with Italy. Trade mark of the town is its promenade lined with cosy coffee-bars and taverns that emerge among plane- tress. The forest which shadows the capital offers delightful trekking paths and also a stunning view to the sea. The medieval Castle of Ragiou at the top of a hill; the 18th century Monastery of Panagia, the ruins of the Turkish Castle and the sea lake of Drepano are few of the sightseeing of Igoumenitsa.

Glyki, situated some 55 km southeast to the capital, is a small, idyllic village located in a plain and surrounded by forested mountains. At a near distance the springs of Acheron River gather plenty of people who enjoy walking at its banks or in its waters; doing kayak or horse –riding. Wooden bridges, plane trees and l wild flowers compose this majestic scenery. The dramatic Acheron gorge and the trekking path from Glyki to Trikastro area offer also a unique experience.

Souli, some 70 km southeast to Igoumenitsa, is a mountainous historical village which became widely known due to the heroic resistance of its locals during the Ottoman rule. In 1803 and after a long siege, those who had remained in Souli together with a monk named Samuel blew themselves up in the monastery of Agia Paraskevi, while the local women threw themselves from a steep cliff one after another while they were performing a traditional dance, in order not be captured.

Just 25 km south to the capital and amidst a scenic lush scenery lies off Syvota, a seaside tourist resort. The town attracts a lot of tourists for its excellent beaches, with most popular the Megali (Mega) and Mikri Ammos and its quaint coves. From here, boats offer daily excursions to the delightful green Paxoi and Antipaxoi islets, an experience that you shouldn't miss, since both the journey and the destination are definitely worth-seeing!

how to get there
Thesprotia is linked by boat with Patra, and the islands of Paxoi and Corfu.
By b it is connected via regular itineraries with Athens and Thessaloniki.