Meteora

Meteora is one of Greece's most astonishing sights, a cluster of vast sandstone pinnacles rising sheer from the Thessalian plain, each crowned by a centuries-old Orthodox monastery that seems to grow out of the living rock. Six of these clifftop retreats still function, reached today by steps carved into the stone rather than the old winch-and-net baskets the monks once used. Base yourself in Kalambaka, the busy little town at the foot of the rocks, or quieter Kastraki village tucked right beneath the towers. The monasteries sit on a single looping road, so hire a car, join an organised tour, or tackle the old monk paths on foot; the local bus is sparse. Each monastery closes on a rotating day of the week and keeps shorter hours in winter, so plan your loop around the closures. Modest dress is strictly enforced: men need long trousers, women must cover shoulders and wear a skirt below the knee, and wraps are lent at the entrance. Time your day for a sunset from Psaropetra, when the pinnacles glow amber and the valley falls into shadow below.