Enjoy the Outdoors

Meteora, Greece has much to offer the outdoor lover. Bird watching is an activity the entire family can enjoy. The Meteora Rocks are home to some rare species that includes the Egyptian vulture. Other species that you’ll be able to see are the blue rock thrush, the alpine swift, and the rock nuthatch to name a few. If you’re looking for more adventure, climbing is the perfect choice. You can climb to the top of the rocks where the monasteries sit.

In the area of Meteora, you will have access to hundreds of different climbing routes. The routes are of varying lengths and difficulties, so you will find something to suit your needs. Kayaking and mountain biking are other outdoor sports that you can enjoy when visiting Meteora.

Visit Kalambaka

Kalambaka is the city center of Meteora. It is located in the central region of Trikala prefecture. Kalambaka is where the locals live their daily lives. The city is home to charming cobblestone alleys and traditional houses. While visiting Kalambaka, you will want to indulge in the local homemade sausages, pies, and tsipouro.

There are also souvenir shops where you can pick up a trinket or two to remember your trip by. You can buy beautiful wood-carved objects that are made by local artists. There is a wood-carving school in Kalambaka that you will want to visit as it maintains the traditional techniques of wood-carving that have been passed down from generation to generation.

Explore the Monasteries

The monasteries of Meteora are a must-see when you visit. The largest and oldest monastery is the Holy Monastery of Great Meteora. This monastery was founded in the 14th century and the name refers to the giant rock that the monastery was built on. The Holy Monastery of Roussanou was founded by two brothers, Maximos and Iosaf during the 16th century. This monastery sits on a lower rock than the other monasteries.

Inside you can view frescoes and beautiful wall paintings. A community of nuns resides at the Holy Monastery of Roussanou. The Holy Monastery of Varlaam, the Holy Monastery of Agia Triada, the Holy Monastery of Agios Nikolaos Anapafsas, and the Holy Monastery of Agios Stefanos are the other monasteries you can visit while in Meteora.

Visit the Natural History and Mushroom Museum

The Natural History and Mushroom Museum of Meteora showcases a collection of over 300 species of birds and mammals. Mammal exhibits include beech martens, raccoons, and bushbucks to name a few. Bird exhibits include the Egyptian vulture, the slender-billed curlew, and the bald eagle. There is also a comprehensive mushroom museum, which is the first of its kind in Greece. Here you can learn about dozens of species of mushrooms. You will see the three major phases of the mushroom’s development and the ecosystems in which they thrive.

When in Meteora, Greece, be sure to explore all there is to offer. Be sure to explore this area fully while here!

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The inaccessibility of the rocks made the Meteora an ideal spot for hermit monks that were looking for a safe haven during the Turkish incursions into Greece. The monasteries were reached by climbing removable ladders and later windlasses were used so monks could be hauled up in nets. Today, the remaining monasteries are accessible by steps that were carved into the rocks in the 1920’s.

Remaining monasteries that can be visited today are:

Moni Agiou Nikolaou
The Moni Agiou Nikolaou is the monastery of St. Nikolaou Anapafsa. It’s the closest monastery to Kastraki. The Moni Agiou Nikolaou was built in the 15th century and features beautiful frescoes that were painted by the monk Theophanes Strelizas from Crete including “The Naming of Animals by Adam in Paradise”.

Moni Megalou Meteorou
The Moni Megalou Meteorou is the Grand Meteora Monastery, the best known of all of the monasteries. It was built on the highest rock in the valley in the 14th century and became the richest and most powerful monastery. It features a series of frescoes entitled “Martyrdom of Saints” that depicts the graphic persecution of Christians by the Romans.

Moni Varlaam
The Moni Varlaam has a small museum that features an original monastery rope basket that at one time hauled up provisions and monks. The monastery also has late-Byzantine frescoes.

Moni Agias Varvara Rousanou
Visitors can access the Moni Agias Varvara Rousanou via a small wooden bridge. The Moni Agias Varvara Rousanou is an imposing steep structure that features beautiful colored glass illuminated katholikon. Today it is home to an order of 15 nuns.

Moni Agias Triados
The Moni Agias Triados is the Holy Trinity Monastery that has a remote feel and features extraordinary views. It was used in the James Bond film “For Your Eyes Only” in 1981.

Moni Agiou Stefanou
The Moni Agiou Stefanou is at the end of the road and nuns sell religious souvenirs and DVDs here. Among the exhibits in the museum is fascinating embroidered picture of Christ.

When visiting the monasteries it’s important to adhere to monastery etiquette. Men must wear trousers and women must wear skirts below the knee and no bare shoulders are allowed. The monasteries each have varying days and hours that they are open. Before visiting the monasteries it’s important to decide on a route. If you want to see all or several of the monasteries you will need to start your day early and take your own transportation. You can also take the bus, but it has limited hours. The monasteries are accessible via the main asphalt road that surrounds the entire Meteora complex.

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It’s no surprise that Meteora, Greece is a great place to go if you enjoy outdoor sports.

Go for a Hike

Any lover of hiking will love having this adventure in Meteora. The landscape only adds to the experience. If you prefer to hike on your own, this is possible. Just make sure you plan your time well because hiking is the slowest way to see the area. The hiking trails go through the countryside and up to the monasteries. You will also want to be sure to pack water, snacks, and sunscreen. Hiking is the best option for seeing as much of Meteora, Greece as you can. If you’d rather hike as part of a tour, you can choose between a group tour or a private tour. These hikes can last anywhere from three hours to almost five hours. Some highlights of any hike you choose include: the renovated monastery of Ypapanti, the monastery of Great Meteoron, and of course spectacular views.

Go Kayaking

The area of Tria Potamia at Koziakas Mountain is a spot favorited by kayakers. It offers a fantastic view of the surrounding landscape. The beauty of the area is unrivaled. There is a kayaking and canoeing center located in the region of Tria Potamia. There you can plan a route to kayak or canoe on the River of Aheloos. If you’re a fan of water sports, you’re going to enjoy one or both of these activities.

Go Mountain Biking

Any avid mountain biker is going to enjoy their time in Meteora. The area of Meteora is known for attracting mountain bikers from all over the world. There are exciting trails that lead from the roads into different parts of Koziakas Mountain. There are also mountain biking tours available for varying levels of ability. From beginners to experiences riders, there is a tour that will suite your needs. A mountain bike tour may involve the following, depending on the tour choosen: mountain biking equipment (bike and helmet), experienced English-speaking guide, and hotel pick-up. A tour lasts approximately two and a half hours and will allow you to enjoy nature and experience the Monastery of Ypapanti.

Enjoy Bird Watching

The area of Meteora is declared a NATURA 2000 site, a wildlife refuge, a World Heritage Site, and an Important Bird Area. The rocks of Meteora serve as a station and shelter for local and migrating birds. The area used to be home to the largest vulture population in Greece. Common birds you will see when visiting Meteora, Greece include the blue rock thrush, the common kestrel, the alpine swift, and the rock nuthatch.

When visiting Meteora, Greece, you have a number of ways to enjoy the outdoors.

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About the Natural History and Mushroom Museum

The Natural History and Mushroom Museum is located in Kalambaka along the National Highway that connects Trikala with Egnatia Highway. The museum is just a five-minute walk from the city center. If you drive, there is free parking available. The Natural History and Mushroom Museum is actually two museums that are housed in one building.

The Natural History section of the museum showcases about 350 species of birds and animals. The museum presents its collections through dioramas that accurately depict where the wild animals live. The exhibits are organized according to the type of ecosystem that they belong to.

The Mushroom Museum of Meteora is the first of its type in all of Greece. The mushrooms at the museum are presented according to the three phases of mushroom development. The museum features about 250 different species of mushrooms. The mushrooms are handmade sculptures that maintain the color, shape, and size as accurately as possible.

What to Do at the Natural History and Mushroom Museum

The Natural History and Mushroom Museum in Meteora, Greece hosts a wonderful collections of mammal, bird, and mushroom exhibits. The museum also offers truffle hunting activities. This allows visitors to watch specially trained truffle dogs search for truffles. Visitors will learn more about the truffle through this experience. This is a unique experience that you cannot get just anywhere, so take advantage when you are spending time at the museum.

If you are visiting the museum with children, they will have the opportunity to create mushroom sculptures. This is a fun and interactive activity that will leave them with a souvenir of the trip. The museum also has a gift shop where you can buy different sauces, pastas, and a unique mushroom chocolate.

How to Get to the Natural History and Mushroom Museum

Getting to Meteora is easy from anywhere in Greece, but especially from Thessaloniki and Athens. The best ways to get to Meteora are by car, bus, and train. There are also tour options if you prefer to have a guide while experiencing the area.

Meteora is connected to Athens and Thessaloniki via train, making it a wonderful and convenient trip that allows you to see more landscape than you might otherwise. If you rent a car, this will give you more control over your trip and stops along the way. The Natural History and Mushroom Museum in Meteora is located at 20 Pindou St. The museum is closed on Mondays.

Spend time touring the Natural History and Mushroom Museum when in Meteora, Greece to learn about the local birds, mammals, and mushrooms.

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The climate of Meteora, Greece is classified as hot-summer Mediterranean. Hot season is from June – September and the coldest month is January. November in Meteora is the wettest month and September is the driest.

This weather forecast in Meteora, Greece, will vary from year to year. The averages that you see below represent historical weather data. Here is the typical weather forecast throughout the year for Meteora, Greece:

January

• Temperature: 33.08° F (0.6° C) – 50° F (10° C)
• Precipitation: 30 mm
• Climate: 5 days of rain on average, 105 hours of sunshine, dry air, clear/overcast
• Humidity: 80%

February 

• Temperature: 34.16° F (1.2° C) – 53.6° F (12° C)
• Precipitation: 35 mm
• Climate: 6 days of rain on average, 118 hours of sunshine, dry air, clear/overcast
• Humidity: 78%

March

• Temperature: 37.4° F (3° C) – 59° F (15° C)
• Precipitation: 36 mm
• Climate: 6 days of rain on average, 158 hours of sunshine, dry air, clear/overcast
• Humidity: 76%

April

• Temperature: 44.6° F (7° C) – 68° F (20° C)
• Precipitation: 29 mm
• Climate: 6 days of rain on average, 214 hours of sunshine, dry air, clear/overcast
• Humidity: 70%

May 

• Temperature: 52.88° F (11.6° C) – 78.8° F (26° C)
• Precipitation: 42 mm
• Climate: 5 days of rain on average, 266 hours of sunshine, 95% dry air, 80% clear, overcast, beach/pool score 4
• Humidity: 62%

June 

• Temperature: 60.8° F (16° C) – 88.7° F (31.5° C)
• Precipitation: 20 mm
• Climate: 3 days of rain on average, 307 hours of sunshine, warm/hot, 95% clear, 1% muggy, beach/pool score 7
• Humidity: 50%

July

• Temperature: 65.3° F (18.5° C) – 92.12° F (33.4° C)
• Precipitation: 18 mm
• Climate: 2 days of rain on average, 335 hours of sunshine, hot, 93% clear, 1% muggy, beach/pool score 8.4
• Humidity: 45%

August

• Temperature: 64.4° F (18° C) – 91.4° F (33° C)
• Precipitation: 16 mm
• Climate: 2 days of rain on average, 320 hours of sunshine, hot, 93% clear, 2% muggy, beach/pool score 8.4
• Humidity: 50%

September

• Temperature: 57.74° F (14.3° C) – 83.3° F (28.5° C)
• Precipitation: 13 mm
• Climate: 2 days of rain on average, 248 hours of sunshine, hot/warm, 1% muggy, 95% clear, beach/pool score 5
• Humidity: 60%

October

• Temperature: 51.08° F (10.6° C) – 72.5° F (22.5° C)
• Precipitation: 47 mm
• Climate: 5 days of rain on average, 169 hours of sunshine per day, comfortable, dry air, 60% clear
• Humidity: 70%

November 

• Temperature: 42.8° F (6° C) – 59.9° F (15.5° C)
• Precipitation: 58 mm
• Climate: 7 days of rain on average, 126 hours of sunshine, dry air, 48% clear, overcast
• Humidity: 80%

December

• Temperature: 35.96° F (2.2° C) – 51.08° F (10.6° C)
• Precipitation: 52 mm
• Climate: 7 days of rain on average, 101 hours of sunshine, dry air, 48% clear, overcast
• Humidity: 83%

In addition to the amazing sites that Meteora has to offer, the area experiences a range of weather to appeal to everyone.

Find the current weather forecast for Meteora, Greece here:

Accuweather – Meteora, Greece Weather Forecast

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About the Village of Kalambaka

The ancient name of Kalambaka was Eginio and dates back as far as the Hellenistic and Roman period. During the 10th century, the village of Kalambaka was known as Stagi. Kalambaka is known around the world for its monasteries that sit atop the rocks of Meteora. Kalambaka is a place rich with history and important monuments. Traveling from Meteora to Kalambaka is possible via bus, taxi, or car. The trip doesn’t take long, approximately five minutes by car and 35 by bus. If you walk, it will take about an hour. If you’re traveling from Athens, you best choice is the train that goes to Kalambaka. The train trip takes about five hours.

The Monasteries at Meteora

When visiting the village of Kalambaka, the monasteries at Meteora should be on your to-do list. These monasteries date back to the 14th century. Monks occupied caverns at Meteora as far back as the 11th century, but only began constructing monasteries in the 14th century to serve as protection from Turkish attacks on Greece. At that time access to the top was only via removable ladders and windlass. The monks would go on to built 20 monasteries.

Today there are six monasteries remaining. You can get to them via steps and bridges that were added during the 1920s. The highest and oldest monastery is the Great Meteoron Monastery. At this location you will be able to view the skulls of former residents that are on display in the sacristy. The other monasteries include: the Monastery of Varlaam, the Monastery of Roussanou, the Monastery of St. Stephen, the Monastery of Holy Trinity, and the Monastery of St. Nikolaos.

What to Do in Kalambaka

Thanks to its rich history and natural beauty, there is no shortage of things to see and do when in Kalambaka. There are a number of cultural and theme tours available in Kalambaka. Just a few ideas include: a sunset tour, a tour of the monasteries, nature and wildlife tours, and various hiking tours.

The Byzantine Church of the Assumption of the Virgin Mary is a beautiful church with paintings and a marble staircase.The Natural History of Meteora & Mushroom Museum is really two museums housed in one building. You will learn about 350 species of birds and mammals and 250 species of mushrooms. You will also find the Hellenic Culture Museum in Kalambaka. For a meal with a view, the Meteoron Panorama Restaurant is a clear winner.

The view of Meteora and the Kalambaka plains from the veranda while you enjoy beautifully prepared meals can’t be missed. Kalambaka has a number of restaurants, tavernas, and pubs. Whether you’re looking for a casual or more elegant dining experience, you will find it.

You won’t be disappointed when you visit Kalambaka. The village has so much to offer: sights to see, places to eat, and places to shop.

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