Southwestern Kastoria
Day 1
From Kastoria, we head west toward Agia Kyriaki, reaching the Monastery of Panagia Faneromeni in 20 minutes. We then drive alongside the Aliakmonas River, enjoying a breathtaking route through nature, until we arrive at Nestorio. In about 20 minutes, we reach the Church of the Dormition of the Virgin Mary, an exceptional example of Byzantine architecture from the 11th century.
From Nestorio to Melanthi, the drive takes another 20 minutes, which can be interrupted midway for a 10-minute detour to the historic Church of Agios Georgios in Omorfokklisia, built in the 12th century. Shortly after Melanthi, we find the Monastery of Agios Georgios, the newest monastery in the area, founded in 2008. Just five minutes away, the Church of the Dormition of the Virgin Mary in Zevgostasio, dating back to the 11th century, awaits us. After a 15-minute drive, we reach the architecturally fascinating Monastery of Agios Athanasios in Zikovista, founded in 1629.
Our return to Kastoria takes 40 minutes, passing through picturesque villages with options for rest and dining. Shortly before reaching the lake, we can also visit the Prehistoric Settlement of Dispilio, dating back to the 6th millennium BC.
Day 2
We begin our tour of Kastoria at the Metropolitan Church of the Dormition of the Virgin Mary and head toward the Monastery of Panagia Mavriotissa, located on the eastern shore of Lake Orestiada. We arrive there in less than 10 minutes, passing by the impressive "Dragon's Cave," which we can visit.
We continue driving along the lakeside, where there is a designated viewpoint to admire the majestic beauty of the lake. Returning to the urban center, we explore on foot, wandering through Kastoria’s unique architectural gems—its grand mansions from the 17th and 18th centuries, featuring distinctive exterior decorations and intricate wooden craftsmanship.
Additionally, we visit two remarkable churches, Agios Stefanos and Agios Dimitrios.
