Deskati

We begin our journey from Grevena to visit four monasteries in the region of Deskati. Our first stop is one of the most renowned monasteries of Western Macedonia: the Monastery of Agios Nikanor of Zavorda, dating back to the 16th century, located about an hour and ten minutes away by car. Returning along the same road, and just ten minutes further, we find the Monastery of the Dormition of the Virgin Mary of Torniki, a significant monument of the post-Byzantine period (12th century), as we drive alongside the Aliakmonas River.

The next monastery, the Monastery of the Annunciation of Bounasia, offers a breathtaking view stretching from Mount Bourinos and Vasilitsa to Lake Ilarion and the Meteora. It is about twenty minutes away and situated at an altitude of approximately 1,000 meters, between the two peaks of Mount Bounasia, part of the Kamvounia mountain range.

Heading toward the final monastery of our journey, which lies about half an hour away, we pass through the town of Deskati halfway along the route—a beautiful destination ideal for rest, coffee, and food. The Monastery of the Transfiguration of the Saviour in Dasochori, founded during the Ottoman period in the 18th century, is nestled in a picturesque and lush green area where we can enjoy some fresh mountain air before returning to Grevena, a drive that takes another hour and ten minutes.