Family Adventure in the Majestic Meteora

Arrival in Meteora: A Dreamscape of Stone and Sky

After a long journey from London, with a connecting flight to Thessaloniki and then a drive through the Greek countryside, we finally arrived in Meteora, Greece. The landscape is unlike anything I've ever seen – towering rock formations that seem to defy gravity, with ancient monasteries perched precariously on top. It’s like stepping into a living postcard, a place where history and nature intertwine in the most spectacular way. I'm eager to share our first day of exploring this incredible destination with you all.


Discover the breathtaking beauty and spiritual serenity of Meteora, Greece, home to stunning monasteries perched atop towering rock formations.

Our day began with a hearty breakfast at Octo Coffee & Breakfast in Kalambaka. The café had a modern Greek vibe, and it was bustling with locals and tourists alike. I opted for a classic Greek omelette, while Olivia chose the pancakes, and Ethan, of course, went for the sweetest option on the menu. The coffee was excellent, strong and flavorful, just what we needed to kickstart our day. It was a great spot to people-watch and soak in the local atmosphere.


Discover the ultimate breakfast experience at Octo Coffee & Breakfast in Kalampaka, where delicious meals meet breathtaking views.

After breakfast, we headed straight for the monasteries. Our first stop was the Holy Monastery of Saint Nicholas Anapafsas at Meteora. The climb was a bit challenging, with many steps carved into the rock, but the views along the way were more than worth it. Ethan was particularly excited, imagining himself as a medieval monk scaling the cliffs. I had to keep reminding him to watch his step, though! Olivia was captivated by the architecture and the history, reading aloud from our travel guidebook about the monastery's origins and its significance in the region.


Discover the rich history and breathtaking views at the Holy Monastery of Saint Nicholas Anapafsas, a serene gem in Meteora's stunning landscape.

One thing I immediately noticed was the dress code. It’s essential to dress modestly when visiting the monasteries. Men need to wear long pants, and women must wear long skirts and cover their shoulders. Luckily, Olivia had packed a long skirt and a shawl, and I had jeans on, so we were all set. However, if you do forget, some monasteries provide wrap-around skirts and shawls at the entrance.

Inside the Monastery of Saint Nicholas Anapafsas, we were greeted by stunning frescoes and a sense of profound peace. The artwork was incredibly detailed, depicting biblical scenes and the lives of saints. I found myself lost in the artistry and the history, trying to imagine what life must have been like for the monks who lived and prayed in this isolated sanctuary centuries ago.

The beauty of Meteora lies not only in its breathtaking landscapes but also in the spiritual serenity that permeates every corner of this unique destination.

After exploring the monastery, we were ready for lunch. We chose Taverna Gardenia in Kastraki, a family-owned restaurant known for its traditional Greek cuisine. The taverna had a cozy, welcoming atmosphere, and the staff were incredibly friendly. We ordered a variety of dishes to share, including stuffed peppers, moussaka, and grilled meats. Everything was delicious, made with fresh, local ingredients. Ethan especially loved the moussaka, declaring it the best he’d ever tasted. Olivia and I enjoyed the locally sourced wine, a perfect complement to the hearty meal. The prices were reasonable, and the service was quick and attentive.


Experience authentic Greek cuisine with stunning views at Taverna Gardenia in Kastraki near Meteora.

After lunch, we decided to do a little shopping. We stopped by Meteora Sandals (Ekfrasi), a local shop known for its handmade leather sandals. Olivia had been wanting a new pair of sandals, and this seemed like the perfect place to find something unique and authentic. The shop had a wide variety of designs, inspired by ancient Greek mythology. Olivia finally chose a beautiful pair of sandals with intricate detailing, and I picked up a simple leather bracelet as a souvenir. The staff were warm and welcoming, making the shopping experience even more enjoyable.


Discover handcrafted sandals and authentic Greek souvenirs at Meteora Sandals (Ekfrasi) in Kalampaka, where tradition meets craftsmanship.

As the day drew to a close, we made our way to Meteoron Panorama for dinner. This restaurant is perched on a cliff, offering panoramic views of the Meteora landscape. The view was simply breathtaking, especially as the sun began to set, casting a golden glow over the monasteries. We ordered a selection of Greek dishes, including grilled lamb, moussaka, and fresh salads. The food was delicious, and the service was excellent. Ethan was fascinated by the view, pointing out the different monasteries and trying to spot the ones we had visited earlier in the day.


Discover authentic Greek flavors at Meteoron Panorama with breathtaking views over Meteora's majestic rock formations.

The average temperature in Meteora in December ranges from 6°C (43°F) to 10°C (50°F). We packed warm clothing, including sweaters, jackets, and scarves, to stay comfortable throughout the day. It's also a good idea to bring an umbrella, as December is one of the wetter months in Meteora.

As we sat there, enjoying our meal and watching the sunset, I couldn't help but feel grateful for this incredible experience. Meteora is a truly magical place, a destination that captivates the senses and nourishes the soul. I’m so glad we decided to come here as a family, to share in this adventure together.

Before heading back to our hotel, Archontiko Mesohori, we made plans for tomorrow. We're planning to visit the Holy Monastery of the Great Meteoron, the Monastery of Varlaam, and the Main Observation Deck of Meteora. We’re also thinking of checking out The DINER & Cocktail Bar by Rapsodia in the evening for a nightcap.


Experience the charm of Kastraki at Archontiko Mesohori, where comfort meets convenience in the heart of the city, perfect for every traveler.

Back at the hotel, Ethan was already fast asleep, dreaming of monasteries and monks. Olivia and I sat on the balcony, sipping a glass of wine and reflecting on our first day in Meteora. It’s a place that has already captured our hearts, and we can’t wait to see what tomorrow brings. I feel like this trip is exactly what we needed, a chance to reconnect as a family and to experience something truly extraordinary.

Until tomorrow, keep exploring and keep dreaming!

P.S. I almost forgot! I realized I left my binoculars at home. They would have been useful for getting a closer look at the monasteries from a distance. Oh well, I guess we'll just have to rely on our eyes and the zoom on our cameras. Also, I wish I had brought extra memory cards for the camera. I'm already running low on space, and I know I'll be taking many more photos in the days to come.