Sunset Hermit Caves Hike, Meteora

Meteora is home to an extensive network of scenic trails, which makes it a stunning place to discover on foot. On this small group three-hour hike, you'll combine outdoor adventure with cultural treasures as you climb to the region's ancient hermit caves. Your local guide will take you on a route to the top of Aghio Pnevma rock, where a 10th-century cave chapel stands. Discover more fascinating sites, like the carved shrine of St. George Madilas, before watching a spectacular sunset over the valley's UNESCO-listed rock monasteries and finishing back at the central village square.

Your adventure starts when you join the rest of your small group at the meeting point in the village of Kastraki. Then it's time to set off with your expert guide on an intermediate-level, three-hour hike. Start by making your way to the top of the soaring rock formation of Aghio Pnevma (Holy Spirit) as you follow the same trails that the first hermit monks of Meteora walked over a thousand years ago. Take in breathtaking views of the valley below and the vast rock monastery complex of Meteora, which reaches heights of close to 2,000 feet (600 m), as you learn about the area's rich geological and cultural significance.

When you reach the top of Aghio Pnevma, you'll discover a 10th-century chapel carved into a cave, built by the very first hermit of Meteora, Varnavas. 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. Continue along a scenic trail to the northern side of Aghio Pnevma, and discover another cave that served as a hiding place for the monks during times of war and persecution.

You'll also pass below the famous cave of St. George Madilas, carved into the steep rock face and lined with colorful scarves, and your guide will continue to share more fascinating stories and legends about the history and culture of the region. The penultimate stop comes when you reach a scenic lookout point, and settle in for a spectacular sunset over the valley and the rock formations. After capturing photos of one of Greece's most dramatic natural landscapes set aglow, you'll hike back down to the central square of Kastraki village and part ways with your guide.