It has been described by many as the most picturesque mountain settlement of the island. The stone-built, traditional houses seem to hang on the verdant slope of Pindos, at an altitude of 1,150 meters. Metsovo is located in the eastern part of the prefecture of Ioannina, on the border with the prefecture of Trikala and is surrounded by the imposing and lush green mountains of Pindos, while at its feet the lake of the sources of the river Aoos almost stretches. This enchanting scenery, against a backdrop of absolute greenery, is complemented by the traditional houses and well-preserved mansions, all built of stone and wood, a living work of art of Metsovite architecture.

Taking a stroll, walking along the cobbled streets, always with a view of the magnificent Pindos, we make a journey back in time and the important history of the place. The mountainous town has today more than 3000 inhabitants and is about 35 km from the city of Ioannina.

Tourism and tradition

In the past, the main economic resources of Metsovo were concentrated on livestock farming and this is the reason why Metsovo is a leader in quality cheese production. With the gradual upward trend and considerable investments in the tourism sector, in recent decades, the inhabitants of Metsov are mainly engaged in tourism activities, which are their main economic resource. A notable place in the set of activities of the inhabitants, is also folk art. Walking through the alleys we will find many shops with woven, embroidery, handmade flokates, wooden decorations and pastoral sculpture.

The tour in and around the settlement will fill us with images of tradition, since we will meet well-preserved mansions, old churches classified as preserved monuments, elderly residents dressed even today in the local costumes and speaking the local dialect, the “Vlach”. After all, most of the first inhabitants of Metsovo were of Vlach origin.

Worth seeing

From the Averofio Garden, we will enjoy the generous view of Metsovo and the surrounding area. A visit to the Folklore Museum, the Art Gallery, the Averoff Cottage, the Holy Monastery of the Dormition of the Virgin Mary and the Monastery of St. Nicholas will teach us something of the long and important history of the place. Depending on the time we have, but also on our mood and preferences between tradition and nature, we can visit the mountain vineyards, but also the enchanting mountain lake of the river Aoos, the blue touch on the canvas of Pindos.

Ski resorts of Metsovo
In the area of Anilio (15 km from Metsovo), is the modern Anilio Ski Resort, with slopes for all levels, a two-seater lift, 2 lifts and 2 baby lifts. It has a very nice café for its guests.
Karakoli is a relatively small ski resort,just 2 km. from the centre of Metsovo and at an altitude of 1,340 m.It has a one-seater lift that serves 2 pistes.The beginners’ piste is 1,800 m long and the advanced piste is 1,000 m long. The all-day ticket costs €7 and the opening hours are daily from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. (tel. 26560 41206).
Politsies (Profitis Elias) is located 6 km outside Metsovo, at km 60 of the Ioannina – Trikala highway.What adds a special beauty to it is the large beech forest that surrounds the slopes, as well as the magnificent view of Pindos.It has 5 slopes, two large lifts with a length of 700 meters and 550 meters respectively, as well as a baby lift 150 meters long. In the centre, there is a chalet, ski schools and equipment rental shops.