Vradeto Steps

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Vradeto Steps

The Vradeto Steps that was until 1974 the only way for people and animals of Vradeto to get to the neighboring Kapesovo village and the other villages in the area, is now a great stone–paved trail, perfect for hiking. This is a really wonderful hike, starting from Vradeto, located at the highest altitude (1350 m) of all villages in Zagori and ending near Kapesovo. The 1500 m long trail counts more than 1100 steps, almost 39 bends and covers an altitude difference of 250 meters. The paved trail is dated to the beginning of the 18th century and it took around 20 years to finish. It was built by famous local craftsmen and is made of local dry stones, making it barely visible when observed from the main road. It was designed to have 3 lanes, two lanes with white stones for the people and one with black stones for the animals. Its width was calculated precisely so that the animals would be able to turn along with their massive load. There are 3 more similar stone paved trails in the area, however, this one is the most impressive and well maintained of all.

This is a moderate hiking trail with magnificent views to the mountains of the infinite country and the little village of Kapesovo on the hill opposite. Starting from Vradeto, you can hike down in an hour and back in an hour and half. At the foot of the steps are two small old arched bridges, known as "Pera bridge" and "Dothe bridge", that were built exclusively for this trail. Halfway is the Beloi viewpoint which gives an insane view of the Vikos Gorge and is an absolute must. If you want to avoid the steep ascent, you can hike down and then walk up to Vradeto from the asphalt road. Hiking the path is a great walk but definitely not suitable for people with weak knees. The Vreadeto Steps is a reference point and one of the most important sights of the village. A typical sample of local folk architecture and an historic monument, revealing the vision of the people who lived here 200 hundred years ago.