Nestled in the heart of Vourgareli, surrounded by a lush pine trees forest and glorious mountain peaks, the Rouista Tzoumerka Resort in Arta is a spectacular retreat. A deep respect for the environment is evident from the modern yet organic design, where guests are invited to escape the hustle and bustle of city life.
Hotel Overview
The architectural design of the resort signifies local architectural identity which is highlighted with the use of stone in the exterior design of the buildings that graciously blends in with the surrounding environment, complimented by beautiful wooden floors, and earthy colors with accents of yellow, blue and red.
Accommodation ranges from double rooms to deluxe king double as well as family style rooms and the Master Suite. During our trip we stayed at the beautifully appointed Master Suite which offers 50m2 of space.
The open-plan suite features a comfortable sitting corner, fireplace, dining area and work desk — the master bedroom is separated by white flowing curtains. The two balconies open up to spectacular views of the mountains.
The bathroom features a walk-in shower and a Jacuzzi bathtub. Room amenities include complimentary Wi-Fi, tea and coffee making facilities and an espresso machine. The bathroom is stocked with Apivita toiletries, slippers and bathrobes.
Breakfast and local specialties
Breakfast is the most important meal of the day, and here at Rouista Tzoumerka resort you will have every reason to start your morning on a positive note.
The rich breakfast buffet is prepared by the lovely Sotiria, who goes by the nickname mama Rouista. Using locally sourced products and recipes you will be spoilt for choice from the selection of tasty pies, eggs, cold cuts and cheeses, and a delightful selection of cakes and breads.
The cozy lobby with a central fireplace is the ideal place to enjoy a freshly prepared cup of coffee with homemade sweets at all times of day.
Travel Bloggers Greece Anniversary dinner
For the occasion of our Travel Bloggers Greece 5 year anniversary we had our celebration dinner at the resort. The menu consisted of a delicious mushroom soup, followed by a selection of fresh mixed green salad, cheeses, pie and moussaka.
For main course we had slow cooked beef in red wine sauce served with creamy mashed potatoes. Mama Rouista and her team also prepared a lovely Vassilopita which is a traditional New Year’s cake that we cut every year for good luck.
The evening was accompanied by live jazz music with a wonderful selection of some of our favorite all time classics.
Vourgareli Village
This small traditional village of approximately 300 inhabitants is set at an altitude of 900 m on the verdant slopes of Athamanian mountains.
The village took its name from Vourgarelis, a logger who settled here for the abundant forests and free flowing water. The area is known for a few notable battles, one was in 1820 when the Turks fought the mighty Ali Pasha, the famous Ottoman Albanian ruler who dominated the region of Epirus for more than three decades. It is here that the Klephs (anti-Ottoman insurgents) together with Markos Botsaris (Greek general and hero of the Greek War of Independence) gathered at the monastery of Agios Georgios to prepare for the uprising.
The impressive monastery is a special place to visit if you find yourselves in this part of Tzoumerka. Located just outside the village it dates back to 1690 and was rebuilt in 1714. Since 1957 it is listed as a preserved historic monument.
The Battle of Vourgarelli, which took place here in 1823, marks the defeat of Omer Vryonis, which resulted in rescuing the Revolution in the West Roumeli.
One of the highlights of the village is the large square which opens up to spectacular views of the mountains. Pay attention to the two stone taps, the Archonto and Kristallo which were constructed in 1926 and are considered to be the trademarks of Vourgareli.
Make sure to visit the Kyttaro Technis Tzoumerkon, which is a non-profit cultural center that houses the exhibition of the late Kostas Balafas, a post war humanist photographer born in Epirus, who captured the daily lives and the hardships of the locals.
Savor traditional delights at Taverna – H Gefyra
Now that you have worked up an appetite, enjoy the fresh mountain air and traditional dishes prepared at the local taverna H Gefyra, translating as the bridge.
Here we enjoyed a selection of Greek appetisers and grilled meats on our first night in Vourgareli. This family-owned taverna is located a few steps away from Rouista Tzoumerka Resort.
*The trip to Tzoumerka was organized by Epirus. Travel. All opinions expressed are always my own.
