THEY SAY KARPENISI ATTRACTS two types of visitors: those who come for the winter sports and those who come to escape the summer heat of Athens. Whatever the case may be, visitors to this mountain haven are instantly captivated by its fairy-tale charm and enthralled with the multitude of outdoor experiences in the rugged wilderness.

Nestled along the slopes of Mount Tymfristos, the city and its surrounding villages offer a mixture of Mediterranean architecture and mountain beauty. The mountains boast incredible skiing, rock climbing and hiking trails, while the two major rivers running through the region prove perfect for swimming, rafting and fishing.

Korischades, mere minutes from the center of Karpenisi and one of the most popular destinations in the area, is famous for its locally produced goods like honey, tsipouro (a traditional Greek spirit) and xilopites (a small, square pasta).

Locals and tourists alike flock to the Korischades favorite, Villaggio Café Mezé, a traditional Greek coffee house, or kafeneion. Winner of the 2019 Best Greek Food Awards for the category of coffee and drinks, this neighborhood eatery serves up great coffee, drinks, pizzas and pastries. It provides the ideal place to enjoy a summer breeze with a glass of tsipouro, best served alongside a plate of mezedes, or appetizers. In the wintertime, warm your soul after a day on the slopes with a glass of rakomelo — tsipouro heated with honey and spices.

galaktoboureko
© GEORGE MASTORIDIS – DREAMSTIME .COM

In the nearby village of Megalo Chorio, or Big Village, explore the beautiful nature trail winding along the Karpenisiotis River. Visit local shops and eateries to try traditional delicacies like galaktoboureko (a milk custard baked inside crispy layers of filo dough) while relaxing on a balcony enjoying the view of the mountains.

Despite its remote location in the mountains of central Greece, Karpenisi is not difficult to reach. Get there in less than four hours by car from Athens or in five hours by bus, with stops in many picturesque locales along the way.