The rocks around the village, including the Holy Spirit rock, are full of small caves and ledges once used by hermit monks before the monasteries were built on the summits. Today the cliffs are also popular with rock climbers.
The village has a relaxed atmosphere, with family-run guesthouses, tavernas and small shops. Many visitors choose to stay here rather than in Kalambaka for the views and the quiet evenings. At sunrise and sunset the rocks above the village turn golden, one of the main reasons to stay overnight.
Kastraki is the starting point of the road and footpaths up to the monasteries, with the Great Meteoron and Varlaam only a short drive above the village.
