Family Adventure in the Majestic Meteora

Day 2: Monasteries in the Sky

Today was nothing short of awe-inspiring. Meteora, with its towering rock formations and ancient monasteries, feels like stepping into another world. It’s a place where history, spirituality, and natural beauty converge, leaving you breathless at every turn. The crisp December air added a certain magic, a quiet stillness that enhanced the experience.

Our day began with a hearty breakfast at Eagle Nest Restaurant. The views from there were, as the name suggests, spectacular. Fuelled up, we set off to explore the famed monasteries. Olivia, Ethan and I were all excited, although I think Ethan was mostly excited about the prospect of climbing lots of steps. I, of course, made sure I had my camera ready. I still curse myself for forgetting my binoculars, it would have made the experience even better.


Discover Eagle Nest Restaurant in Vlachava - where delicious Greek cuisine meets stunning views in a warm and inviting atmosphere.

Our first stop was the Holy Monastery of Great Meteoron, also known as the Monastery of the Transfiguration of Christ. As the largest and oldest monastery in Meteora, it certainly lived up to its reputation. Founded in the 14th century by Saint Athanasios the Meteorite, it's perched atop the highest rock, offering panoramic views that stretched as far as the eye could see. The climb was invigorating, and the sense of accomplishment upon reaching the top was palpable. The monastery itself is a treasure trove of history and art, with intricate frescoes and ancient manuscripts that tell tales of devotion and resilience. Ethan was fascinated by the old kitchen and wine cellar, while Olivia was captivated by the detailed religious artwork.


Discover the breathtaking beauty and spiritual serenity of the Holy Monastery of the Great Meteoron, a UNESCO World Heritage Site in Greece.

Visiting the Monastery of Varlaam provides not only spiritual inspiration but also breathtaking views and a unique opportunity to connect with centuries of monastic tradition.

Next, we ventured to the Monastery of Varlaam, which stands proudly on a rock opposite Great Meteoron. Founded in the mid-14th century by the hermit Varlaam, it's slightly smaller but equally impressive. The climb was a bit less strenuous than Great Meteoron, which was a relief for my slightly aching knees. Inside, we were struck by the stunning frescoes painted by the renowned hagiographer Franco Catalano in the 16th century. The vibrant colors and intricate details brought the biblical stories to life. We also saw the massive wooden barrel used to store water, a testament to the ingenuity of the monks who built and sustained these incredible structures.


Discover the breathtaking Monastery of Varlaam in Meteora, Greece: a historic monastic complex with stunning views and rich Byzantine art.

After soaking in the spiritual atmosphere of the monasteries, we headed to the Main Observation Deck of Meteora. This spot offers a breathtaking 360-degree vista of the entire Meteora valley. From there, we could see all six monasteries, each perched atop its towering rock pillar. The view was especially magical in the late afternoon light, as the sun began to dip behind the mountains, casting long shadows across the landscape. Ethan, ever the curious one, peppered me with questions about how the rocks were formed and how the monasteries were built. It was a great opportunity to share some history and geology lessons with him. Olivia, meanwhile, was busy capturing the stunning scenery with her camera. She definitely has a better eye than I do.


Witness the breathtaking beauty of Meteora from this easily accessible observation point, offering panoramic views of ancient monasteries and stunning rock formations.

As the day drew to a close, we decided to treat ourselves to a pre-dinner drink at The DINER & Cocktail Bar by Rapsodia. It was a welcome break after a day of exploring, and the cocktails were delicious. Ethan enjoyed a milkshake, while Olivia and I savored some local wine. It was the perfect way to unwind and reflect on the incredible sights we had seen.


Discover the perfect blend of casual dining and vibrant nightlife at The DINER & Cocktail Bar by Rapsodia in Kalampaka, near the stunning Meteora.

For dinner, we chose Tavern Zeus in Kalambaka. The traditional Greek dishes were hearty and flavorful, and the atmosphere was warm and inviting. We feasted on moussaka, souvlaki, and a variety of local specialties. It was a satisfying end to a day filled with wonder and adventure. The friendly staff made us feel right at home, and Ethan even got a complimentary dessert, which made his day.


Experience the best of traditional Greek cuisine at Tavern Zeus in Kalampaka—where every meal is a celebration of flavor and hospitality.

Tomorrow, we plan to visit the Natural History Museum of Meteora and Mushroom Museum, as well as Theopetra Cave. I’m particularly excited about the cave, as I've heard it offers a fascinating glimpse into the region's prehistoric past. Ethan is looking forward to seeing the Mushroom Museum, which I suspect will be more interesting than it sounds. Olivia is eager to explore the local shops, hoping to find some unique souvenirs to take back home.

As I sit here writing this, I can't help but feel grateful for the opportunity to experience such a unique and inspiring place with my family. Meteora is more than just a collection of monasteries; it's a testament to human ingenuity, faith, and the enduring power of nature. It’s a place that will stay with me long after we’ve left, and I can’t wait to see what tomorrow brings. The wind howls slightly outside, but I am warm and content, thinking of the beauty we witnessed today.

I am really looking forward to tomorrow and the opportunity to explore the region's prehistoric past. I'm also hoping to find a good spot to photograph the sunset. Maybe Olivia and I can sneak away for a few minutes while Ethan is busy with his new Lego set. After all, a little bit of alone time is essential for any successful family vacation.

I think I will try to find some local events to see if there is anything exciting happening in Meteora. Maybe we can catch a traditional Greek music performance or a local festival. It would be a great way to immerse ourselves even further in the local culture. I will keep you posted!

Until tomorrow!