Private Hiking Experience to Meteora's Hermit Caves, Meteora

4.0 (1 review)
Experience the hermetic caves of Meteora in a private and customizable manner with a local personal guide.

Overview

Meteora is home to an extensive network of paths and trails, which makes it easy for visitors to explore the area at their own pace—a stunning place to explore on foot! On this private three-hour hike, you'll explore the ancient hermit caves of Meteora. Your local guide will take you through the trails near the village of Kastraki, up to the top of Aghio Pnevma rock, where a chapel inside a cave dedicated to the Holy Spirit stands. You'll also visit the prison cave of the monks and the St. George Cave before finishing back at the central square of Kastraki Village.

Highlights

  • Explore the cave chapel dedicated to the Holy Spirit, where the first hermit of Meteora lived in
  • Visit the prison cave of the monks and learn about the harsh conditions they endured during their solitude
  • Enjoy panoramic views of the Meteora Valley and surrounding rock formations
  • Learn about the history and legends of Meteora's hermit monks from a knowledgeable local guide

Know before you go

Duration
3 hours
Recommended for
All ages
Group
Private

What you'll do

Situated in the central region of Greece, Meteora is home to six UNESCO World Heritage Site monasteries and nunneries nestled atop colossal rock pillars. Surprising as it may be, these monasteries, built between the 14th and 16th centuries, still serve as sites of worship to this day! Stepping foot into this sacred destination feels like a true journey through time.

The name Meteora means "suspended in air," which is an incredibly fitting moniker for this breathtaking destination, particularly given the dizzying heights at which the monasteries are situated. Towering as high as 1312ft (400m) above the ground, these awe-inspiring structures are a true testament to human engineering and a sight to behold for visitors from around the world.

With the help of a private guide, you'll make your way to the top of Aghio Pnevma and follow the same trails that the first hermit monks of Meteora walked over a thousand years ago. Take in the breathtaking views of the valley below and the vast rock complex of Meteora as you walk in their footsteps.

At the top of Aghio Pnevma, you'll discover a chapel made inside a cave and dedicated to the Holy Spirit, built by the very first hermit of Meteora, Varnavas, in the 10th century. This cave is considered the birthplace of the monastic community of Meteora, and it's a testament to the faithful people who chose to live here centuries ago.
Continuing your hike, you'll visit the prison cave of the monks located on the northern side of Aghio Pnevma. This cave served as a hiding place for the monks during times of war and persecution.

As you walk below the cave of St. George, your knowledgeable guide will share fascinating stories and legends about the history and culture of Meteora. Finally, your hike will conclude back at the central square of Kastraki Village.

What's included

  • Knowledgeable local guide
  • Guided hike to Meteora’s hermit caves
  • Visit to the cave chapel dedicated to Holy Spirit
  • Visit to the prison cave of the monks

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Traveler reviews

S
Stuart H.
North Plainfield, NJ | Reviewed on Nov 17, 2024

Trip was enjoyable. Young man leading hike. Original destination too difficult for us, but alternative was great.

Tips for future travelers

Type of hike specifically height of climb and skill and gear required.

Like what you see?

Chat with our local specialists and let us help you customize your trip with experiences like this.

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