Meteora: Self-Guided App-Based Driving Tour

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Participants can initiate their journey by downloading the Action Tour Guide app, which serves as a comprehensive personal tour guide, audio guide, and map. It is recommended to purchase one tour per vehicle, allowing everyone to enjoy the experience together. The scenic tour spans over 7.89 miles and typically lasts between 3 to 4 hours.

To begin the adventure, travelers should head to the Municipal Square in Kalabaka. As they navigate through the town, they will uncover the geological history of Meteora and learn about the hermit monks who established their homes there centuries ago. A highlight includes a visit to the hermit caves of Badovas, offering a glimpse into the original dwellings of these early settlers.

Continuing the tour, participants will explore Doupiani Rock, the location where the first hermit monks resided. They will also witness a cliff cave adorned with colorful scarves left by climbers as a tribute to Saint George.

The journey leads to the Holy Monastery of Saint Nicholas Anapafsas, the first major monastery on the route. This is followed by an intriguing site known as the Prison of the Monks, where monks once isolated themselves for penance.

Next, the group will visit the Holy Monastery of St. Barbara Roussanou, learning about the two brothers who brought it back to life after it fell into neglect. Progressing onward, they will also see the Holy Monastery of Varlaam, recognized as the second largest monastery in the area.

The tour then reaches the Holy Monastery of Great Meteoron, which is distinguished as the largest monastery within the region, and a key highlight of the expedition!

Following this, travelers will encounter breathtaking vistas showcasing the stunning rock formations of Meteora. Shortly after, they will arrive at the Monastery of the Holy Trinity, currently managed by a single monk overseeing the entire estate.

The tour concludes at the Monastery of St. Stephen, notable for being the easiest to access, as it does not require navigating any stone steps.