Escorted Tours
Flowers And Wildlife Of Northern Greece Tour
This tour, led by Javier Mendez, ornithologist and naturalist, combines both flora and fauna as well as stunning scenery that showcases the exceptional beauty and natural world of Northern Greece.
Our tour begins at Lake Kerkini, set in a superb natural landscape and renowned for its bird life. We spend two nights here exploring both on and off the lake. You don’t have to be an ardent bird watcher to enjoy what can be found here; just the numbers of birds found on the lake are enough to impress any visitor! It’s then on to the picturesque village of Metsovo, which combines colourful traditions and a lovely nature. Our final destination is situated in the heart of the wonderful region of Epirus, magical Zagoriahoria; wild, grand, silent, scenic, and barely touched by modern civilisation – an earthly paradise. We spend our days here seeking out wildflowers and listening out for birds whilst discovering a unique and little-known region of Greece that is almost untouched by the hands of time.
Please note, you don’t have to be an avid bird watcher or flower enthusiast to join this tour; if you just enjoy nature and the wonderful colours of spring, do consider joining us on this tour.
what’s included
At A Glance
Meet Your Expert local Guide
Javier Méndez
Javier is a professional ornithologist and naturalist, a co-founder of the Menorca Ornithological Society and a member of the Menorca Research Institute. Born and raised on the island, he has spent a lifetime studying its birds, wildlife and distinctive natural environment.
Javier has guided birdwatchers, walkers and nature enthusiasts since 2001. His natural enthusiasm and intimate knowledge of the landscape make him a hugely engaging guide in Menorca, while he also brings his wildlife expertise to selected Travel Editions tours in Greece.
Meet Your Expert tour manager
Jane Freeman
Jane is Travel Editions’ Greece Product and Operations Manager and is based half of the time in the UK and the other half in Crete. She has created and expanded the company’s Greek programme to include history, nature, walking, culinary and cultural tours across the islands and mainland.
Jane particularly enjoys sharing Greece’s traditions, mezze-style cooking and the open-hearted hospitality of its people. Her warm, friendly nature and longstanding relationships with local suppliers are greatly appreciated by travellers, while her instinct for finding places beyond the usual tourist routes gives her tours a distinctive and personal character.
itinerary & excursions
Your Itinerary
Explore this incredible tour in detail and discover what makes each day so special. Below, you’ll find a full day-by-day breakdown of your journey, from the moment you arrive to your final farewell. Learn more about the highlights you’ll experience, the unforgettable places you’ll visit, and the unique moments that bring each destination to life. Whether you’re drawn by rich history, stunning landscapes or unforgettable cultural encounters, this itinerary gives you everything you need to picture your adventure and look forward to every step of the way.
Exact order of itinerary may vary according to local conditions and tour manager’s discretion.
Day 1: Fly from London Gatwick to Thessaloniki.
Overnight at the beachside Golden Star Hotel, Perea, 20-minutes drive from Thessaloniki Airport.
Day 2: The Wildlife of Lake Kerkini
We leave our hotel in the morning and drive to Lake Kerkini. Described as a birdwatcher’s paradise, Lake Kerkini was formed in 1932 when the River Strymona, which flows from Bulgaria into Greece, was dammed to prevent damage to crops and, ultimately, the economy of this large agricultural area. Over time, the lake grew and became an unexpected nesting and resting ground for many birds, both migratory and local. Vitally, it became a haven for the Dalmatian Pelican, the rarest and most vulnerable of the Pelican species. In 2003, the number of breeding pairs at Kerkini was just seven; by 2019 the numbers had grown to more than 250 breeding pairs. The lake was designated a national park in 2006 and continues to thrive and remains essential to both the birds and the local community.
Aside from enjoying the birdlife here, we will discover another important creature of the area, water buffalo; the largest numbers in Greece are found here and are very much a part of the economic life of Lake Kerkini, both past and present.
Check-in to the Villa Belles Hotel, situated on the slopes of Mount Belles, for a two-night stay. The hotels elevated position ensures a wonderfully tranquil position as well as lovely views towards the lake and surrounding hills. It’s not unusual to hear jackals here in the evening.
The following is just a sample selection of birds that have been sighted at Lake Kerkini; Dalmatian pelicans (Pelecanus onocrotalus), a globally threatened species; Pygmy Cormorant (Phalacrocorax pygmaeus), Black stork (Ciconia nigra), Ferruginous duck (Aythya nyroca), White-tailed eagle (Haliaetus albicilla), Roller (Coracias garrulus), Rock Thrush (Monticola saxatilis), Barred warbler (Sylvia nisoria), Penduline tit (Remiz pendulinus) Golden oriole (Oriolus oriolus). If you are interested in a larger list, please get in touch.
Day 3: Lake Kerkini
We continue our exploration of this beautiful area both on and off the lake. Exploring the lake by boat is of course a must, a wonderful opportunity to spot birds, both migratory and non-migratory. If conditions are suitable, our guide will be pleased to offer a nocturnal walk on one of the evenings during our stay at Kerkini.
Day 4: Axios Delta and Metsovo
Leaving Kerkini behind, we head west towards Metsovo, exploring the Axios Delta National Park on the way. This important wetland area, known for its extensive biodiversity, is formed by the deltas of the rivers Axios and Aliakmon as well as the estuaries of two other rivers. Extending to almost 340 square kilometres, it hosts a large number of birds, including many waders and other water birds, as well as many species of plants.
From here it’s on to picturesque Metsovo, situated at a height of 1160 metres on the slopes of the Pindos Mountains, and check-in to the very comfortable Hotel Kassaros, situated in the heart of the village, for a one-night stay. Evening at leisure with the opportunity to try some of the local specialities Metsovo is known for: excellent spit roast meat reared on the high slopes around Metsovo, smoked cheese, a signature product of the village, and excellent local wine that is produced here from the highest vineyards of Northern Greece.
Day 5: Zagoriahoria
We spend the morning exploring the fields close to Metsovo for plants and birdlife before continuing on to the village of Monodendri, situated amidst the timelessly scenic Zagoriahoria. Arriving in Monodendri, we will explore a little around the village before checking in to the Philoxenia Hotel. Evening at leisure.
Day 6: Voidamatis River and the Papigos
Today we will botanise on our drive to two exceptionally charming and very traditional Zagorian villages, that both fully represent the authentic and picturesque character of the attractive Zagorian architecture. We will botanise along a road we call the ‘sage route’, because of the abundance of colourful sage that usually flowers here at this time of year.
Then its on to the translucent and ice cold Voidamatis River to botanise by the river before continuing up to the famous Papigo villages, where there will be time for lunch in a local taverna that offers, in equal measures, good food and stunning views. Evening at leisure.
Day 7: Beloi Balcony
Today we head to the highest of the Zagoria villages, Vradeto (1700m), and follow a path towards a view point that looks in to the dramatic Vikos Gorge, botanising and looking out for birds as we go. It’s an easy path, approximately an hours walk in each direction.
After lunch (included) in Vradeto we head back to our hotel stopping to admire some of the picturesque stone bridges of Zagoria, an exceptional scenic trademark of the area.
Day 8: Return Flight from Corfu
Transfer from Monodendri to Corfu for the return flight to London
our guests say
Recent reviews
“This was a very memorable holiday – the whole experience was very enjoyable and i particularly loved the boat trip on Lake Kerkini the most. I would love to do more holidays like this!”
Ms F, May 2025
“There was excellent chemistry between Nikos, Javier and Jane amongst all the other guests on the entire trip. I wouldn’t have changed anything.”
Dr Richard Rolfe, May 2025
“We found the boat trip on Lake Kerkini magnificent, as well as the walk to Vikos George Viewpoint. This holiday was fantastic, many thanks to the excellent service provided by Travel Editions.”
David and Sandra Rann, May 2025
“We had a wonderful time on this trip, thankyou! Walking up in the hills above the Vikos George was a fantastic part of the tour. We would rate this trip very highly.”
Yair Klein, May 2025
Availability
Choose Your Departure
HOTELS
Tour Accommodation
Golden Star Hotel, Perea
Situated just 17 kilometres from Thessaloniki and only a 20-minute drive from the airport, the four-star Golden Star Hotel provides a relaxed place to stay for the start of our tour. Set on the sea front in the small seaside resort of Perea, provides ease of access to local tavernas and the seaside promenade. The comfortable rooms all have balconies and air-conditioning. The hotel facilities include a restaurant and bar.
Hotel Website
Villa Belles, Akritochori
Situated on the slopes of Mount Belles, overlooking Kerkini Lake, this traditional style three-star hotel offers comfortable rooms and a tranquil countryside position. Rooms have balconies and air-conditioning.
Hotel Website
Kassaros Hotel, Metsovo
Decorated in traditional Metsovon style, this very comfortable hotel is centrally located close to the village square where you can find shops and tavernas. Hotel facilities include a cozy bar. All rooms have air-conditioning.
Hotel Website
Philoxenia Hotel, Monodendri
Featuring wooden ceilings and floors, warm colours and dark wood furnishings; the family-run Philoxenia hotel offers comfortable pristine bedrooms with private bathrooms. A breakfast buffet, with wonderful homemade dishes, is served daily in the tastefully furnished dining area. Hotel facilities include a bar, outdoor and indoor seating area.
Hotel Website
our regular tours
Mobility Information
This tour has a moderate fitness rating, reflecting a fuller itinerary with a good balance of visits, walking and time spent exploring on foot.
Some visits may involve cobbled streets, uneven paving, slopes, steps, stairs, limited seating, or walking from the coach drop-off point to the entrance of a site or attraction. The exact demands will vary from day to day, and we highlight specific practical details within the itinerary wherever possible.
You should feel comfortable walking at a steady group pace, standing during visits and enjoying a full day of sightseeing. If you are unsure whether this tour is right for you, please contact us before booking.
Your questions answered
Tour FAQ
If you have a question, we are more than happy to answer it via email or phone, but you may find your answer below more quickly.
Fresh Adventures for Inquisitive Travellers
Why Choose Travel Editions?
Travel with purpose, passion, and like-minded companions, here’s what sets Travel Editions apart.
Designed for Travellers,
Not Tourists
Founded in 1994 offering unique cultural tours beyond typical high street itineraries.
Personal Service, Real People
Small, friendly team with no automated phone lines. Enjoy personal attention from our team.
Expert Tour Guides, Unique Insights
Industry-leading guides, some since day one, who speak local languages and have detailed knowledge.
Win a 2027 Holiday for Two!
Sign Up To Our
Newsletter For A
Chance To Win
Our newsletter keeps you up to date with the latest news from Travel Editions, including new tours, special departures and travel inspiration. You’ll also receive articles from our expert tour lecturers and tour managers, along with insights into the destinations, history, art and culture that shape our holidays.
"*" indicates required fields
