Yanina (Ioannina) - cave of Perama - Zagorohorya

Greece is a country that, despite its modest size, does not change from region to region, but from town to town. In fact, a vivid example of the “other Greece” is Epirus and its capital Ioannina, which can be cited as a textbook example of stunning color.

During the trip to Yanina you will see the streets paved with wild stone (preserved from ancient times); pass through the narrow alleys of Castro - the fortress of the city in the footsteps of the "Yanin lion" of Ali Pasha Tepelensky sung by Alexander Dumas; visit two acropolis-fortresses with well-preserved monuments of the Ottoman era; taste local dishes, wines and tsipuro - Greek grappa, which is especially well prepared in the north of the country.

You will enjoy the enchanting views of Lake Pamvotida or Pamvotis, which surrounds the city on three sides and the mountain ranges adjacent to Janina. On a small boat you will reach the island of Janina, where you will find a walk, beautiful views and taverns. By the way, this is one of the few places in Greece where deep-fried frog legs, lake eels and crayfish are prepared, which are caught here in the lake. The islet is one of several lake islands in Europe where people live permanently, and there is also a monastery where Ali Pasha spent his last days and was killed.

At the end of the program you will visit the high-mountain village of Zagorohorya, from the observation deck which offers fascinating views of the mountain range of Pindos.

Interesting facts:
• at the University Hospital of Yanin, work is underway to study cancer and develop new methods of treatment;
On the day of the liberation of Janin from the Ottomans, the native of the city Christ Adamidis landed his airplane directly in front of the Ottoman administration building;
* The Battle of Bizani (1912-1913) was marked by the first ever downing of a combat aircraft; the injured aircraft was piloted by a Greek citizen of the Russian Empire, Nikolai Sakov (Sakidis), who managed to land the aircraft in Prevez, where it was expected to be repaired, after which the aircraft again became operational.
The Ottoman military commanders Essat Pasha and Pavit Pasha, who defended Yanin during the Battle of Bizani, came from the Greek family Glykas, who had converted to Islam, and knew the Greek language perfectly.
Ali Pasha Tepelensky is mentioned in the novel by Alexander Dumas “The Count of Monte Cristo”.
* Silver-encrusted weapons, silverware and Janine jewelry are famous throughout the country. The best souvenir from Yanin is a silver pomegranate fruit that brings happiness and prosperity according to Greek beliefs.
The famous cave in Perama was discovered during the Second World War by local residents hiding from bombing.
One of the halls of the cave is known for its stalactite in the shape of a cross.

Useful information:

total mileage of the excursion (with departure from Thessaloniki) - about 550 km;
For your comfort and safety, wear comfortable shoes; do not forget to bring headgear with you;
The route program can be changed for reasons beyond the control of the company (force majeure); weather conditions and at the discretion of the guide if necessary.

All transfers under the program on comfortable transport Mercedes Vito.
services of a Russian-speaking driver (450 – the cost of a tour with a Russian-speaking guide);
* the cost is indicated for leaving Thessaloniki / when leaving the other region changes are possible;

Separately paid:

* Lunch;
Entrance tickets to museums and archaeological parks; a boat to the island of Janina.