Kyriakos Vamvakopoulos

Has anyone ever listened to the sound of history and felt connected to something timeless? Well, I have. I’ve just returned from a peaceful landscape—Cassope. It’s a unique blend of natural beauty and historical depth, a harmony that speaks to both past and present. Here, history and tranquility coexist. As I walked the ancient paths, it became clear: Cassope is more than just a destination. It’s an experience. Greece’s soul lingers in every stone, every breeze, leaving me in timeless wonder. Nestled near the village of Kamarina, Cassope Preveza is a historical gem in the Epirus region of Greece. This ancient site is located just below the famous Zaloggo Monument  and the Monastery of Agios Dimitrios , offering a unique blend of natural beauty and historical significance. Cassope is conveniently situated approximately 20 km north of Preveza, 40 km from Parga, and 60 km from Lefkada, making it easily accessible by car. Visitors can enjoy a scenic drive through the lush lan...

It was a warm September afternoon in 2024, and  Arta ’s quiet charm wrapped around me like a comforting embrace. The town moves at its own pace, where time feels slow and tranquil. Sitting with a cold frappe in hand, I admired the famous Bridge of Arta , which has stood here since the 17th century. Its smooth, stone arches mirrored on the calm river below, creating a scene of unmatched serenity. This bridge is not just a feat of engineering; it’s a miracle of architecture. Legend has it that its construction was so difficult, it required the ultimate sacrifice - only after the master mason’s wife was buried within the foundations did the bridge finally stand. The bridge is unique in its design: long and thin, its form feels impossibly graceful for something so old and enduring, a true testament to Greek ingenuity. After finishing my drink, I wandered toward the castle , its towering walls beckoning. The air was still, and my footsteps echoed as I entered through the gates. The aban...

Last weekend we in  optimalstay  were hosting a very nice family from Greece We kindly asked our guests to record the highlights in short for this 3 days journey, they accepted our request, therefore, we are very thankful to John and his family! Philotimia  is a charming short-term rental apartment located at Vasileiou Ariva 30, 45332 Ioannina, Greece. This cozy apartment became our home away from home for those three days, and it was the perfect base for exploring the beautiful city of Ioannina. Day 1: Arrival and Exploring the Neighborhood We arrived at Philotimia on Friday afternoon. The apartment was spacious and well-equipped, with two bedrooms, a fully stocked kitchen, and a lovely balcony that offered a great view of the surrounding area. The kids, aged 11 and 13, were thrilled with the comfortable living room and the fast Wi-Fi. After settling in, we decided to take a stroll around the neighborhood. We discovered the delightful café Mantzios just a sho...

!!!!Cycling is passion!!!!   An awe-inspiring 5-day cycling tour through Greece's hidden gem—Ioannina and the Vikos National Park - what an unforgettable journey!!!  Starting in the historic town of Ioannina, known for its  silversmithing , lively nightlife, and scenic lake, we embarked on a thrilling ride. Each pedal took us through charming villages and rugged landscapes. Midway, we swapped bikes for hiking boots, trekking from Papingo to the mystical Drakolimni , a path  through verdant beech forests, where the air is filled with the scent of pine and the sounds of nature. The trail gradually ascends, revealing panoramic views of the surrounding mountains and valleys. Midway through the trek, the dense forests give way to expansive alpine meadows, dotted with wildflowers and frequented by skittish chamois. The imposing Towers of Astraka loom overhead. The trail is well-marked and includes several kiosks with fresh water. At the final stretch, the landsc...