Konitsa to Distroto Road EP36 Through Pindus National Park

The road section discussed here is located in the Epirus region of Greece, starting near the town of Konitsa and extending through the settlements of Paleoselli and Distroto, continuing towards Smixi. This route traverses the mountainous terrain of the Pindus mountain range, intersecting the protected area of the Pindus National Park (Εθνικό Πάρκο Πίνδου). The road lies within the coordinates approximately between 40.02469°N, 20.75183°E and 40.07140°N, 21.08249°E. The elevation along the route varies significantly, ranging from 622 meters (2,041 feet) at its lowest point to 1,771 meters (5,810 feet) at its highest, providing a diverse riding experience through mountainous landscapes. An interactive map showing the road can be found at the end of this article.

The road, designated as ΕΠ36, extends for approximately 61 kilometers (38 miles). It features an asphalt surface with a quality rating of 4.3 out of 5, indicating a generally smooth and well-maintained pavement suitable for motorcycles. The route is moderately twisty, with a curviness rating of 2.12, offering a mix of gentle and sharper curves that require attentive riding but are not excessively challenging.

Regarding lane configuration, about 47% of the road consists of a single lane, while approximately 21% has two lanes. The road width varies, with around 14% classified as narrow, 30% as medium width, and the majority (about 51%) as wide, allowing for comfortable maneuvering in most sections. The speed limits along the route range between 30 km/h (19 mph) and 50 km/h (31 mph), reflecting the road's mountainous nature and safety considerations.

Only a small portion of the road (approximately 13.4%) passes through inhabited areas, primarily near the settlements of Konitsa and Paleoselli, which minimizes urban traffic interruptions. The route also includes a viewpoint attraction, providing riders with an opportunity to pause and appreciate the surrounding natural environment.

This road section passes through the Pindus National Park, a significant protected area known for its rich biodiversity and mountainous landscapes. The park is recognized under the Wikidata entry Q1989158 and is detailed in the Greek Wikipedia article Εθνικός Δρυμός Πίνδου. Riders traveling this route can experience the natural beauty of the park, including forested areas and mountainous terrain. The viewpoint along the road offers a vantage point to observe the landscape, making it a notable stop for motorcyclists interested in nature and photography.

Motorcyclists should be prepared for varying road widths and occasional single-lane sections, which may require caution when encountering oncoming traffic. The road surface is generally in good condition, but riders should remain vigilant for any localized imperfections. Given the elevation changes and mountain environment, weather conditions can vary, and the road may be subject to seasonal closures or restrictions, especially during winter months, although specific closure information should be verified locally before planning a trip.

There are no tolls or entrance fees associated with this road section; however, toll policies can change, so riders are advised to consult official Greek road authorities for the latest information. More details on road tolls and fees in Greece can be found at the official Greek Ministry of Infrastructure and Transport website.

This article has focused on the road section ΕΠ36 from Konitsa to Distroto, highlighting its location within the Pindus National Park, road characteristics, and practical information for motorcyclists. The route offers a moderately twisty ride through mountainous terrain with good road surface quality and scenic viewpoints. An interactive map showing the exact road section discussed is provided below for reference.