Monasteries Suspended Between Earth and Heaven 

📍 Location 

Located in central Greece, near the town of Kalabaka, the Meteora rock formations are about 350 km (4.5 hours) northwest of Athens. The drive takes you through beautiful countryside and mountain landscapes. 

🌄 What Makes It Special 

Meteora is one of the most surreal and breathtaking places in Greece — and the world. Towering sandstone pillars rise hundreds of meters above the plain, and on their summits sit centuries-old monasteries, once reachable only by ropes and ladders. 

It’s a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a living monument of Orthodox spirituality. 

🏛️ The Monasteries 

Originally 24 in number, today 6 monasteries are active and open to the public. Each offers a glimpse into the monastic life, incredible views, and priceless art. 

Must-visit monasteries include: 

• Great Meteoron Monastery 
• Varlaam Monastery 
• Rousanou Monastery (run by nuns) 
• Holy Trinity Monastery (featured in James Bond’s For Your Eyes Only) 
• St. Stephen’s Monastery 
• St. Nicholas Anapausas Monastery 

🧭 What to Do 

• Explore monasteries by car or foot – well-maintained roads and trails connect them. 
• Go hiking through forest paths and ancient steps carved into the rocks. 
• Enjoy photography or drone views (check local guidelines for drone use). 
• Visit the Natural History & Mushroom Museum in Kalabaka. 
• Relax in Kastraki, a charming village with traditional tavernas and stunning views. 

🍽️ Local Flavors 

Try slow-cooked meats, mushroom dishes, and “spetsofai” (sausages with peppers and tomato). Kalabaka and Kastraki offer cozy tavernas with homemade food and warm hospitality. 

💡 Tips for Visitors 

• Wear modest clothing to enter the monasteries (skirts or long trousers required — wraps often provided at entrances). 
• Bring water and walking shoes — some monasteries require climbing many steps. 
• Visit early in the morning or near sunset for fewer crowds and magical light. 
• Consider staying overnight in Kalabaka or Kastraki to explore at a relaxed pace.