The Zagorohoria is the collective name for a group of 46 villages in the mountains of Epirus, Greece’s northwestern region. While he landscape is both dramatic and awe-inspiring, the villages are among the most beautiful in the country. Because tourism has started to develop in the region only recently, the industry remains in a nascent state. You can show up without a reservation any time during the year and not have a problem finding accommodations, perhaps with the exception of Christmas Eve or Easter Sunday.
Almost every village has at least one hotel or guest-house. Typically, they are converted village houses built out of local stone and with roofs covered in slate. Though they all look very pretty from the outside, their interiors tend to be a let-down, with an austere, Spartan feel to them. There are only a few exceptions, and among those, the Arhondiko tis Aristis stands out. Not only is its exterior beautiful, but its interior is stunning.
The guesthouse consists of two stone buildings. One is a 200-year old mansion that was restored a few years ago, while the other was built just recently. Even so, it is almost impossible to distinguish which one came first. Bright and with incredible views of the mountains, the bedrooms on the top floor might be the best in the house. Although the bottom-floor rooms might be a bit dark, they are cozy and comfortable. Both mansions are replete with interesting, sometimes comical, details. For example, every now and then you will realize that you are standing beside a wall replete with bullet holes. Other times, you will find yourself in hysterics as your tall friend bumps his head on the absurdly low door pane yet again.
Be sure to inform reception how large your party is, as certain rooms in the mansions are much larger than others, while some are interconnected to form suite-like accomodations. Even so, the rooms are stylistically uniform, with stone walls, wooden floors, beamed ceilings and country furniture. Many have fireplaces. The decoration is not overdone and excessive, but classy and upscale. The hotel exudes perfection with its pristine white bed covers, impeccably dried flowers, neat piles of magazines, and paintings framed without adornment. Bathrooms are equally chic, but they are a bit small and, brace yourself, there are no shower curtains.
Imitating the cozy, friendly feel of the hotel, the restaurant serves homemade traditional Greek food. The refined decor entails black-and-white photos in simple wooden frames, more dried flowers, antique decorative objects, and baskets brimming with fruit. During summertime, the outdoors is used for sitting and eating as sunny corners, shaded terraces, mellow music, and a relaxed atmosphere create the ideal setting. Breakfast is a generous buffet. Be sure to ask for the delectable juices freshly prepared from seasonal fruits.
The welcome you get in the Arhondiko tis Aristis is perhaps the hotel’s most extraordinary aspect. Penelope, who takes care of the place, seems to have trouble not hugging every new guest upon arrival. Though she may not speak much English, she still knows her way to everybody’s heart. The owner, an ex-captain in the Greek navy, will wander the grounds with his hands in his pockets and a quiet smile on his face.
Useful information:
- Directions: From Ioannina, take the road in the direction of Konitsa, and after 40 km take the turn-off for Aristi and Papingo. You will find the hotel on your left as you enter Aristi.
- Open: All year
- Rooms: 1 single, 7 triples and 8 quadruples, all with private shower. All rooms, are equipped with telephone and some have television.
- Prices: Moderate. Breakfast included.
- Restaurant: Open for lunch and dinner
- Breakfast: Served from 8:30 to 10:30 in the breakfast room or on the terrace.
- Children: Suitable
- Credit cards: Not accepted
- Dogs: Not allowed
- Address: 440 16 Aristi - Zagori
- Tel: (2653) 042210-1, 094 5676261
- Fax: (2653) 042211
