Ophiolites and the Malakassiotis Valley
This route follows the perimeter of the Malakassiotis Valley. The first half, from Kalampaka to Panagia, runs along the old Kalampaka–Ioannina National Road, while the remainder follows the local road network. Along the road and on the surrounding hills, visitors can observe unique outcrops of ophiolites—ancient submarine volcanic rocks. These ophiolites, dating back to the Jurassic period (200–150 million years ago), have been geologically thrust over younger sedimentary rocks of the Pindos Flysch, which can be seen lower in the valley, near the Malakassiotis streambed. This route offers a rare opportunity to witness impressive tectonic structures and rock formations, revealing key geological processes that have shaped the landscape of the Pindos Geotectonic Zone.
