Authentic guesthouses in a fortified mountain village, just above Filiates and 30 minutes from the Igoumenitsa coast
Foiniki isn't a typical holiday spot — it's a living monument. Built amphitheatrically on the slopes of Mavrostani hill, a few kilometres above Filiates, it is considered the best-preserved traditional settlement in Thesprotia: stone fortress-houses from the 15th–16th centuries, narrow flagstone lanes and arched courtyard gateways, protected as an area of outstanding natural beauty since 1976. Staying here means sleeping inside stone and history, far from the noise of the coast.
At IgoumenitsaSTAY we highlight Foiniki as the "mountain" side of Thesprotia — the quiet counterpoint to the turquoise beaches of Sivota. Whether you're after a peaceful escape with a fireplace and a touch of art, or a base for exploring the northern hinterland, you'll find genuine Epirus hospitality in a handful of carefully chosen stays. Few in number, but full of character.
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Living architecture: You sleep inside an authentic fortified settlement — one of the very few this well preserved anywhere in Epirus.
Art & culture: The village is home to a Folk Museum and, every summer, to the Foiniki Arts Festival with its renowned Sculpture Symposium — sculpture, painting, theatre, music and poetry.
Complete quiet: Deep in the Thesprotia hinterland, away from beach tourism — ideal for rest, nature and a genuine digital detox.
Mountain & sea in one trip: Pair the mountain calm with the beaches of Igoumenitsa and Sivota, just 30–40 minutes away by car.
Ideal exploring base: A launchpad for the traditional villages around Filiates, the gorges, and the wineries of northern Thesprotia.
Foiniki is a small, atmospheric village — the choice of stays is limited, but distinctive:
Stone guesthouses & suites: Newly built or restored properties, in full harmony with the traditional architecture, for a boutique stay with real character.
Traditional, family-run hospitality: Rooms and guesthouses run by locals, with the warmth and authenticity of the Epirus countryside.
In all honesty: because this is a small village, the number of stays is limited and there are no large hotels. We therefore recommend booking early — especially in the summer months, which coincide with the festivals.
Valaes Guesthouse A brand-new stone building completed in 2025, home to the artistic vision of the Valaes family — sculptors Konstantinos and Angelos Valaes. It offers two independent suites, each bookable separately or together:
Deluxe Suite — 73 m², ground floor, sleeps up to 5 (max 4 adults); one bedroom with a double bed, private bathroom, fully equipped kitchen, living room with double + single sofa beds.
Superior Suite — 80 m², first floor + attic, sleeps up to 5 (max 4 adults); one bedroom with a double bed, private bathroom, fully equipped kitchen, spacious living room with double + single sofa beds.
Both suites enjoy open mountain views and a fireplace for cold winter evenings. Shared facilities include a large veranda/courtyard, a BBQ area, a shared sauna, and an outdoor shower; in-room comforts include A/C, heating, washing machine, TV and free Wi-Fi. The olive-tree motif — the artists' signature — runs discreetly through the sculptures on display. Ideal for couples, families, or two groups travelling together.
Full details & booking → · Book online
Good to know: it's a brand-new property welcoming its first guests in 2026, so there aren't many reviews yet. The sauna, outdoor shower and one toilet are shared between the two suites — great for two families travelling together, less so if you need total privacy. And since there are no tavernas or shops within walking distance, the fully equipped kitchens genuinely help.
Bring a car: Foiniki is an inland mountain village, about 20 km (around 30 minutes) from Igoumenitsa via Filiates. Your own transport is essential — see car rental options in Igoumenitsa.
Combine mountain & sea: Many visitors split their days between Foiniki and the coast. See also where to stay in Sivota and Igoumenitsa.
Book around the festivals: If you want to experience the Foiniki Arts Festival and the Sculpture Symposium, book early in summer — availability is limited.
Plan your meals: With few dining options in the village itself, an equipped kitchen and local Thesprotia produce make all the difference. For a meal in the wider area, see Lontza taverna.
Explore around: Pair your stay with our Foiniki village guide, the Thesprotia travel guide, and the Zervas & Markatselis wineries.
Where is Foiniki? In northern Thesprotia, on the slopes of Mavrostani hill, about 5 km from Filiates and roughly 20 km (30 minutes) from Igoumenitsa.
Do I need a car to stay in Foiniki? Yes. Foiniki is an inland mountain village and access is by private transport; it isn't easily served by public transport.
Is it close to beaches? The village itself is in the mountains, not by the sea. However, the beaches of Igoumenitsa and Sivota are only 30–40 minutes away by car, which makes it an ideal base for combining mountain and sea.
What can I see in Foiniki? Its striking stone architecture with the fortress-houses, the village Folk Museum and, in summer, the Foiniki Arts Festival with the Sculpture Symposium.
When is the best time to visit? Foiniki is rewarding year-round. Winter, with a fireplace, makes it an ideal mountain retreat, while summer comes alive with the cultural events.
Are there tavernas and shops in the village? Options inside the village are limited, which is why a stay with a kitchen helps — and for shopping and more tavernas, Filiates is very close.