The mountains of the Pindhos range are dry and rugged, with fine examples of classic limestone features. Through the gorges ice-cold crystal clear streams meander or roar along the bottom, cutting their way down and sometimes disappearing into underground caves, emerging further down the valley. Some of the areas to be visited form part of the Pindhos National Park. Despite the predominance of dry rock-strewn plateaux, limestone pavements, cliffs and scree slopes at higher altitudes, wide areas of the northern Pindhos are covered with mixed forest. The lower meadows support a lush community of flowering plants, many of which may be familiar to those who know the central European mountains.
Several species are more typically Mediterranean or of Eastern distribution.
There are also a large number of species only found in this Balkan region. Above the treeline the high meadows, screes and cliffs provide ideal habitats for alpine plants including some endemics. Zagorahoria, in the heart of the northern Pindhos, is a distinct region, both culturally and geographically. The dramatic mountains, with remote and picturesque villages nestling in sheltered valleys, have escaped the ravages of tourism. It is in this region that most of the course is based, staying in the simple, comfortable rooms of the hospitable village people, and eating in local tavernas.