Kokkinolithari and Agios Minas: The "Meteora of Epirus" in Thesprotia 

At an altitude of 420 meters, hidden in the mountains northeast of Filiates, a tiny village guards one of the most striking religious monuments in Thesprotia: a chapel perched on the very summit of a sheer rock face, rightfully nicknamed the "Meteora of Epirus." Kokkinolithari and the Monastery of Agios Minas are absent from mass-market tourist guides—and that is exactly what makes them special. 

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If you have already explored the beaches of Syvota and Plataria and are seeking something entirely different—mountain villages, Byzantine history, spit-roasted meats under plane trees, and breathtaking views—this is a day trip worth taking. 

Where is Kokkinolithari?

Kokkinolithari belongs to the municipality of Filiates and is located on the road connecting Filiates to Ioannina, via Keramitsa and Vrosyna. It is approximately 30 km from Igoumenitsa and 16 km northeast of Filiates.

The 2021 census recorded only 34 permanent residents—a village that thrives mainly through those returning for the summers and visitors trekking up to Agios Minas. This gives your visit an authentic, tranquil character; you are not visiting a tourist attraction, but a genuine, quiet mountain village of Epirus.

How to get there: From Igoumenitsa, take the road toward Filiates and then follow the signs NE for Kokkinolithari. The road is paved but narrow and winding in the final section. Allow 40–50 minutes from Igoumenitsa; slightly longer if coming from Syvota or Parga. A car is essential—there is no practical public transport option. 

Food: Psistaria – Cafe Agios Minas

Right in the village square, at the base of the rock and under the shade of plane trees, operates the traditional Psistaria – Cafe Agios Minas.

The heart of the establishment is Hermioni and her husband Kostas, who roasts on the spit with a passion that has earned him consistent praise in local reviews. The menu centers on spit-roasted lamb, kontosouvli, kokoretsi, and grilled meats, accompanied by homemade appetizers, Greek salad, and local house wine. Prices typically range between €10-20 per person.

Good to know:

• Sundays: Spit-roasts are almost always available during the summer. If you have your heart set on lamb or goat, it is best to contact them in advance.

• Off-season: During winter, it operates mainly on weekends, with service moving indoors by the fireplace.

• Payment: Cash is preferred; do not rely on card terminals in this mountain village.

• Dessert: Don't forget to ask for yogurt with homemade quince or carrot preserve.

When to Go

The ideal times are the summer months when the weather favors the mountain roads, or November 11th, the feast day of Agios Minas. On that day, pilgrims from all over Thesprotia gather for the Divine Liturgy. Outside these times, you will find a very quiet, almost deserted village—which, for many, is the exact reason to go.

Combine Your Trip: A Day in the Mountains of Thesprotia

Kokkinolithari is not a standalone stop; it is part of a route rich in history and nature:

• Monastery of Giromeri: Founded in the 14th century, it is one of the few active monasteries in Epirus with exquisite frescoes. [Read our guide to Giromeri]

• Vothnes of Keramitsa: Natural pools within a dramatic gorge, accessible via the historic "Salt Road" cobblestone path.

• Foiniki: A village of stone houses that resemble small fortresses, featuring a recently renovated Folklore Museum housed in an Ottoman-era inn. [Read our detailed guide to Foiniki]

• Keramitsa & Giromeri: Traditional stone-built villages offering panoramic views and authentic Epirus architecture.

Suggested Itinerary:

• Morning: Filiates -> Giromeri & Monastery of Giromeri.

• Lunch: Kokkinolithari — ascent to Agios Minas + lunch at the village square.

• Afternoon: Foiniki (Folklore Museum) or a hike toward the Vothnes of Keramitsa (for the experienced).

A car is necessary for this route. If you do not have your own, check our car rental options in Igoumenitsa.

What to Know Before You Go

This trip is not for everyone—and that is part of its value. Here are a few practical things you should keep in mind:

• The Route: The drive from the coast is a real detour through narrow mountain roads that takes time. Plan for at least half a day.

• Access to the Chapel: The chapel may be locked outside of services or feast days, as there is no permanent warden. However, the staircase and the surrounding area are always accessible.

• Physical Accessibility: The staircase leading up the rock is steep and has no elevator or ramp. It is not suitable for individuals with mobility issues and may be challenging for those with a fear of heights.

• Facilities: Amenities in the village are minimal. There is the grill house in the square and one or two shops, but there is no guarantee they will be open outside of the summer season or weekends.

• Transportation: There is no public transport. A car (or a taxi arranged in advance) is the only viable way to reach the village.

• Mobile Signal: Reception can be unstable in the mountains, especially on the road between Kokkinolithari and Keramitsa.

Frequently Asked Questions

• Is it part of the UNESCO Meteora? No. It is a local nickname due to the visual resemblance of the chapel on the rock.

• Can I enter the chapel? It is not permanently staffed. You may find it open or closed, but it is always accessible during feast days and summer services.

• Is it suitable for everyone? The stairs are steep and lack ramps, making it unsuitable for individuals with mobility issues or severe vertigo.

• Is there cell service? Coverage can be unstable in the mountains, especially between Kokkinolithari and Keramitsa.