The Monastery of St. Nicholas of Mpantovas was carved into this soaring rock pillar in Meteora, Greece.
(Getty Images)
Calling Meteora, Greece, a heavenly destination isn’t an exaggeration. Its name translates to “suspended in the air,” and with half a dozen monasteries that seem impossibly built on soaring peaks, visitors describe it as an otherworldly blend of nature and the divine.
This destination is off the beaten path, about four hours away from Athens by bus or train. Going there in fall holds the promise of clear skies and the best views.
You can make it just a day trip or plan on spending a few days to explore some magnificent hiking trails.
(MORE: Discover Greece’s top hiking trails)
Why go now
Oct. 28 was Oxi Day, a Greek national holiday, but now the crowds are thinning out, opening up those trails with crisp fall mornings and pleasant afternoons.
Late October through early November offers ideal weather, with highs in the mid-to upper 60s and lows in the upper 40s to low 50s, according to Weather.com meteorologist Caitlin Kaiser.
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So definitely pack layers for the mornings and nights, but be prepared to shed them come the afternoon.
It’s also a good time for photographers as there are typically clearer skies. But, October is also a transitional month between the dry and rainy season, so having a rain jacket with you is smart.
A scenic view of the the Monastery of Varlaam in Meteora, Greece.
(Getty Images)
What to see and do
Monks built 24 monasteries atop Meteora’s rock pillars between the 14th and 16th centuries. Six remain open to visitors today. With entrance fees around 5 euros or about $5.50 per monastery (cash only) you can visit multiple in a day.
If mobility is a challenge, St. Stephen’s Monastery is touted as the location with the easiest access and minimal climbing.
The Great Meteoron is the largest and one of the most challenging to reach.
Inside the Monastery of Great Meteoron in Meteora, Greece.
(Getty Images/Marc Dozier)
If you’re trying to beat the crowds and capture the best photos you’ll want to be an early bird – most of the monasteries open at 9 a.m. and many are open on the weekends. You will definitely want to check out their schedules, which change with the seasons.
Meteora is also a favorite among expert rock climbers thanks to its soaring sandstone pillars. Climbers have said autumn is one of the best times to scale those towers.
If you want to keep your feet on the ground, there is a network of old monk paths, with routes from about 1.5 miles to more than 8 miles. Local guides offer hiking tours.
Monks built these sanctuaries centuries ago to get closer to heaven. Visit this fall to see the view for yourself.
