Hiking tour in Souli plateau, Kougi and Skala Tzavelena

If you’re anything like us, you love combining nature with a bit of history, especially when exploring a place as rugged and storied as Greece’s Souli region. This 5.5-hour hiking tour offers a chance to witness breathtaking views, explore ancient landmarks, and experience authentic mountain life. We’ve gathered info to help you decide if this adventure is your next must-do in Epirus.

What really stands out about this tour is how it balances stunning scenery with a taste of local history—think ancient bridges, watermills, and sweeping vistas of the Acheron River and the Souli mountains. The other big plus? The guides seem knowledgeable and engaging, making the experience feel personal. On the flip side, it’s quite a hike, so if you’re not comfortable with uneven terrain or long walks, it might not be ideal.

This tour suits those who enjoy active outings, love scenic views, and have a curiosity about Greek mountain villages. It’s especially good if you’re after a day immersed in nature with a side of history and culture.

Key Points

• Breathtaking Views: Expect panoramic vistas of the Acheron River and mountains.
• Historic Landmarks: See ancient bridges, remnants of watermills, and old pathways.
• Authentic Mountain Experience: Use a shepherd’s stick and walk through forests and low shrubbery.
• Flexible Planning: Book now and pay later, with a 24-hour cancellation policy.
• Not for Everyone: Not suitable for children under 7, pregnant women, or those with back problems.
• Small Group Feel: Guides are experienced and engaging, making the experience more personal.

You can check availability for your dates here:

An Overview of the Souli Hiking Experience

This tour invites you to walk along the legendary trail of “Scala Tzavelaina – Plateau of Souli – Kougi,” which is perfect if you’re eager to see Greece’s rugged beauty and learn about its historic villages. Starting from Glyki village, your journey begins with a walk along the Acheron River’s headwaters, revealing some of the most stunning natural scenery in Epirus.

The path takes you through a famous tunnel and an observatory point, where “the views of the river and mountains are simply breathtaking,” according to some past participants. You’ll get a close-up look at the modern Acheron bridge—a striking structure—as well as a remnant of an ancient watermill that hints at the region’s historical livelihood.

What Makes This Tour Special?

The highlight for many is the panoramic vista from the observatory. You’ll be able to see the river winding below and the jagged peaks beyond, which makes it a perfect spot for photos. The trail then leads you along the riverbank, past sprawling plane trees and historic bridges. This section combines nature with a sense of history, as you notice remnants of old engineering.

Then, you’ll ascend towards the plateau of Souli, passing through low shrubbery filled with sage, thyme, and rockrose. The walk through the dense forests of holly, oak, and maple feels like a peaceful retreat from the world, giving you a real taste of mountain life.

The Cultural & Historic Stops

Your itinerary includes visits to the village of Samoniva and then to Kougi, where the trail reaches its high point. These villages, although small, are packed with stories and character. Walking through them, you get a real sense of what life in the mountains might have been like historically.

Participants often comment on the authenticity of the experience. One reviewer mentioned, “Wielding a shepherd’s stick reminded me of how mountain folk used to move and guide their flocks—such a simple, charming touch.” It’s a detail that adds a layer of mountain charm and connection to the land.

Practicalities & What to Expect

This tour is designed for those who are reasonably active. It involves some moderate hiking—expect uneven terrain, forest paths, and some uphill sections. The guide emphasizes traditional mountain ways, so you’ll be encouraged to walk in a traditional manner, adding a cultural dimension.

The duration is 5.5 hours, which includes walking, stops, and some breaks. The group size tends to be small, fostering a more intimate experience. Guides are fluent in English, providing commentary along the way.

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What to Bring and Considerations

Participants are advised to come prepared with hiking shoes, sunscreen, hat, sunglasses, and enough water. Since weather can change quickly in the mountains, a waterproof poncho is recommended, especially if rain is forecast.

You might find it helpful to bring a camera, as the views are worth capturing. If you want to take a refreshing dip, a change of clothes, towel, and swimwear could come in handy, as some parts of the trail lead close to water.

The tour can be booked with a flexible payment option, and full refunds are available if canceled at least 24 hours in advance. However, keep in mind it’s not suitable for children under 7, pregnant women, or those with back issues—mainly because of the physical nature of the hike.

The Experience Provider and Other Tour Options

The tour is offered by Cretanholidays, a provider with a solid rating of 4.3. Their tours tend to emphasize authentic experiences, and this one is no different. If you enjoy active excursions, you’ll find plenty of options in the area, from boat cruises to rafting and cultural tours, as shown in similar experiences on GetYourGuide.

Final Thoughts

This hiking tour in Souli is a great pick for adventurous travelers who want to see Greece’s natural beauty and historical sites in one go. The views are consistently praised for their stunningness, offering a true feast for the eyes. The mix of nature, history, and traditional mountain life makes it a well-rounded experience.

If you’re comfortable on your feet and love discovering off-the-beaten-path villages, this tour will reward you with serene forest walks, panoramic overlooks, and a peek into mountain life that’s largely untouched by modern tourism. It’s also a good choice if you appreciate small group experiences with knowledgeable guides.

However, it’s not suited for those with mobility issues or very young children, and weather can influence the walk—so check the forecast before booking. Overall, for a balanced day of active exploration and scenic beauty, this tour offers considerable value.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this tour suitable for children?
Not for children under 7 years old, as the hike can be physically demanding for younger kids or those with limited mobility.

How long is the hike?
The entire experience lasts about 5.5 hours, including walking, stops, and breaks.

Do I need special gear?
Yes, hiking shoes are recommended, and bringing sunscreen, a hat, sunglasses, water, and a waterproof poncho is advised.

Can I cancel the booking?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

Is this experience suitable for pregnant women?
No, it’s not recommended for pregnant women due to the physical nature of the hike.

What kind of scenery will I see?
Expect panoramic views of the Acheron River and mountains, historic bridges, lush forests, and charming mountain villages.

Are guide services included?
Yes, guides speak English and provide commentary throughout the tour.

What is the group size?
The group size tends to be small, enhancing the personalized experience.

Will I get to see historic landmarks?
Absolutely—ancient bridges, remnants of watermills, and mountain villages are part of the route.

What if the weather is bad?
Weather can impact the hike, so check the forecast and bring appropriate gear like a waterproof poncho.

If you’re after an active day filled with scenic views, mountain charm, and a touch of history, this Souli hiking tour might just be your perfect fit. It’s a chance to see Greece’s wild side and connect with local mountain traditions—an experience to remember.

You can check availability for your dates here: