Tsepelovo is a Zagori village at roughly 1,100 metres elevation in the Pindus mountains, approximately 50 km northeast of Ioannina via a mountain road through Asprangeli. Less visited than Monodendri or the Papingo villages, Tsepelovo retains a quieter, more remote character; it sits near the upper reaches of the Mezaria ravine and offers walking access to Vradeto, one of the highest and most dramatically situated Zagori settlements. The village connects to less-trafficked sections of the broader Zagori trail network, making it a practical base for hikers looking to avoid the main Vikos Gorge crowds.
To Petrino — the name translates as 'the stone house' in Greek — is a traditional guesthouse built in the characteristic Zagorian stone-and-slate construction that defines the region's architectural heritage. The two-storey structure features exposed stone walls internally and externally, heavy wooden-beamed ceilings, and a stone fireplace in the common area suited to cold mountain evenings. A small garden on the property adds a country-house atmosphere during the warmer months. The overall aesthetic is authentic and unfussed rather than boutique-polished.
Double and triple rooms are available, simply furnished but well maintained. Breakfast is included in the room rate, typically served as a home-style spread featuring bread, local honey, Zagorian yoghurt, and egg dishes prepared with regional ingredients. There is no on-site restaurant for lunch or dinner; a small number of local tavernas in the village are within easy walking distance. No pool, gym, or spa is present on the property.
The guesthouse is owner-managed, which results in personalised, informal service and practical knowledge of local trails, seasonal weather, and access to nearby points of interest including the kalderimi (cobbled mule paths) that connect Tsepelovo to surrounding villages. The property suits budget-conscious travellers, solo hikers, walkers, and couples who prioritise an authentic mountain-village experience over hotel facilities. It is not configured for families with very young children or business travel.
Room types
- Double rooms
- Triple rooms
Amenities
- Breakfast included
- Stone architecture
- Fireplace
- Free Wi-Fi
- Garden
Location
Tsepelovo 44004, Zagori, Greece
39.9162, 20.7806 View on map
Highlights
- Traditional Zagorian stone-and-slate construction with exposed stonework interior
- Quiet village base for less-crowded trails into the wider Zagori network
- Breakfast included featuring local honey, yoghurt, and regional produce
- Fireplace common room suited to off-season and winter stays
- Owner-managed with direct local knowledge of trails and seasonal conditions
Tips for visiting
- Ask the owner about the kalderimi routes to neighbouring villages — some sections are not marked on standard maps but are well-preserved Ottoman-era cobbled paths
- Tsepelovo is the quietest jumping-off point for the Vradeto ascent; the path from here sees far fewer hikers than routes from Monodendri
- Pack dinner supplies before arriving — the village has minimal shops and taverna hours can be irregular outside peak summer season
- The garden is only comfortable from May through September; winter and spring stays centre around the fireplace common room
- A car is essential; Tsepelovo has no regular bus service and taxis from Ioannina require advance booking