Bikers Roadtrip to Nicopolis Roman Aqueduct

Our plan was to take a road trip on the motorbike with no specific destination other than a direction of travel. This is much more adventurous than planning a full itinerary. The day began with the obligatory 'bikers breakfast' in Nidri but with a slightly healthier option than a 'greasy spoon' cafe.

Directions to Ziros Lake - From Lefkada Island we followed the E951 to Ioannina. Stay on the main road travelling through Filippiada and as you exit the town at a mini roundabout on the left hand side you will see brown signs for Ziros Lake (Limni Zirou).

We stopped off at Ziros Lake to see our good friend Loukas from 'Into The Wild'. For more details on Ziros Lake the activities on offer click the link below.

https://greekcountryliving.blogspot.com/2020/09/ziros-lake-pedopoli-zirou-mainland.html

Loukas advised us not to miss visiting the Roman aqueduct so our journey continued.

Directions to Nicopolis Roman Aqueduct - (situated on the North side of the valley of Louros close to Agios Georgios village). From Ziros Lake return to the main road E951 and continue in the direction of Ioannina. Take a sharp right turning (See brown signs on your right side). After turning off the main road there is an area to park directly in front of you.

The Roman aqueduct was built after 31BC, ordered by Roman Emperor Augustus Octavian to supply Nicoplolis with water from the natural springs of Louros in Agios Georgios village covering a distance of 50km in length. The Louros springs feed the stunning Zirou (Ziros) Lake.

www.nicopolis-aqueduct.gr

The aqueduct stands majestically before you. Crystal clear waters run over the shingle stone river bed. It truly is an impressive sight. Nature has run wild as green foliage adorns the red brickwork.

Cross over the Louros River via the modern road bridge and walk to a gate on the opposite side of the road. Where there is more information about this amazing Roman structure.

In the distance there is a hole in the rock. In this stands a large cross which is lit at night. Apparently you can walk there from this point, but for us it was another activity for another day.

From here, on the left side, moving towards Agios Georgios Village is the Holy Church of St George. Unfortunately it was locked but an area outside is available for those who want to light a candle for prayer. On the road side is a natural spring water fountain, perfect for filling a travelers water bottle.

Continuing along the road on the right is Park Agios Georgios. This is the perfect place to take a picnic or barbeque. The river bed meanders through areas of Plane trees which provide cool shade in the heat of the summer.

The road now bends to the left and rises up to the village. You cannot pass by without stopping at St. Georges Water Mill. The concrete water beds are said to have been constructed as part of the process for blankets and rugs.

Flokati is a pure wool rug, handwoven in a traditional Greek method. They are cherished as family treasures, part of brides' dowries, and used as wall hangings, bed covers, as well as rugs.

Unable to use washing machines due to their size and weight, this natural water resource is used to wash the blankets and rugs in the traditional way, in large metal bowls, hanging to dry naturally.