Just 15 minutes from Arachova and only two hours from Athens, Le Grand Chalet is a super cozy all-day lounge bar and restaurant located at the top entrance of charming Agoriani village.
Set inside a three-storey stone and wooden chalet, the large glass windows allow guests to sit back on one of the comfy lounges, as they enjoy uninterrupted mountain views- along with a warm beverage in hand.
Boasting a cosmopolitan yet elegant atmosphere, here you can smell the fresh alpine air as you are surrounded by lush fir trees and the most breathtaking views of Mount Parnassus.
Located in a prominent position on a hill, you’d be forgiven for thinking you are somewhere in the Swiss Alps, as Le Grand Chalet is only metres away from the snowy peaks of Parnassus and the plain of Boeotian Kifissos. And its close proximity to popular winter destination Arachova makes it one of the busiest spots over the cooler months, as it offers a gorgeous setting to enjoy brunch, lunch, dinner, or drinks.
From coffee and hot chocolate to unique beverages created to warm you up; we suggest you try the homemade ginger liqueur, Parnassus tea, honey and lemon, or the Metaxa (Greek brandy) and honey- there’s also a deluxe cellar with a great range of local wines to choose from.
If you are after something to eat, the menu includes light options such as club sandwiches, burgers and traditional pites (pies)- through to main meals at the à la carte restaurant downstairs- where you are able to taste creative Greek dishes made from fresh and local produce.
The desserts here are also amazing- we recommend the chocolate fondue and the homemade loukoumades (Greek honey puffs) which melt in your mouth! And let’s not forget the cocktail list, which is designed to turn up the heat! Featuring Greek spirits such as Rakomelo and Tsipouro- these drinks aren’t for the faint-hearted but they’ll surely warm you up from top to toe!
Greece is filled with dreamy coastlines, lush mountainous landscapes, fairy-tale villages from a different era, ancient sites and sacred spots.
For the full-monty experience, all you have to do is find the right place and the best time of year to discover them. Winter travel in Greece offers a completely different picture of a country too commonly associated with beaches and infinity pools.
We encourage you to book your winter escape to get to know traditional villages and their inhabitants, ski jaw-droppingly scenic slopes, try the warming, hearty and mouth-watering winter rendition of Greek cuisine and explore traditional culture beyond the tourism façade. Above all, to celebrate Greece’s deep winter season in a magnificently memorable way!
Arachova
A winter Mykonos of sorts, Arachova is where the cosmopolitan crowd gathers to sip frothy cappuccinos and sexy cocktails in between skiing, shopping at designer concept stores and local delis and pampering themselves at spa hotels. Also, only 15 minutes drive from the stunning and sacred ancient site of Delphi, this alpine village is both traditionally charming and glamorous.
Elati
Elati or Tyrna is an alpine village in the Prefecture of Trikala, located in the southern part of the Pindos mountain range. Close to the Petrouli ski center, it has been modernised and developed into a tourist destination considerably over the years but hasn’t lost its natural beauty. Surrounded by the fir trees (elata) it’s named after and at an altitude of 950m on the slopes of Koziakas, you can enjoy sweeping views and traditional experiences as well as skiing.
Nafplio
So close to Athens you can even pop over for the day, Nafplio town in the Peloponnese is romantically beautiful year-round, and particularly festive at Christmastime with its twinkling lights and cozy hangouts. Neoclassical buildings, pretty shops, cobblestone walkways, museums and historical sites like the Ottoman Bourtzi old prison and Venetian Palamidi castle, all add to the incredible allure of this must-visit place.
Zagorochoria
Choose among Zagori’s 48 traditional villages in Epirus and travel back in time, enjoying the brilliant combination of traditional slate-roof architecture, magnificent natural areas like the Vikos gorge, rivers for rafting and (Pindos’) mountains for hiking, combined with warm village hospitality. The most famous villages are Mikro and Megalo Papigo, Ano Pedina, Monodendri, Aristi, Dilofo, Tsepelovo and Vovousa. ‘re planning a romantic Christmas getaway or an excursion with family/friends, book yourself into a boutique hotel and spend your days exploring the area inside out!
Elatochori
Elatochori is a mountainous settlement in the prefecture of Pieria, known for its ski resorts, the artificial Velvento lake, eight slopes at a total length of 9 km, 6 lifts, a buzzy ski society and snow bars. At over 1900m altitude, the village, once named Skouterna, is in the mountains of Pieria, 8 km west of Katerini. Stay in a cosy chalet with a spa and spend the day skiing and exploring the fabulous hiking trails, with jaw-dropping views, lush forest paths and waterfalls.
Kastoria
Built amphitheatrically on a peninsula, Kastoria in northern Greece in the region of Western Macedonia. Wear your warmest coat and walk along the icy Lake Orestiada. Explore picturesque districts such as Dolch with its majestic mansions, Byzantine churches in Apozari and the prehistoric settlement of Dispilio, a few kilometers outside the southern entrance of Kastoria. If you’re going after Christmas…Annually, from January 6-8 the town celebrates Ragoutsaria, a local carnival originating in pagan Dionysian ceremonies, with live orchestras, dancing and wine.
Monemvasia
Created during the Byzantines Empire during the sixth century, Monemvasia is a fairytale-like group of castles and houses joined by medieval cobblestone roads with breathtaking sea views. Explore this mystical stone-built settlement, nestled at the edge of a big rock by the sea, and immerse yourself in a uniquely mystical and romantic atmosphere. During the Christmas/New Year holidays, this is an idyllic getaway especially if you can afford to stay within Monemvasia’s medieval town at an old mansion with a fireplace. Enjoy scenic spots, pretty shops and all sorts of restaurants/bars.
If you find yourself in Greece during the cooler months, we recommend visiting one of the country’s leading ski resorts, where you’ll discover a winter wonderland full of fun and adventure.
Mount Parnassus
Here you will find Greece’s largest ski centre, with two sections – Kellaria and Fterolakka, which are connected with lifts and runs. At an altitude of 1,600-2,250m, its spectacular geomorphology and rich biodiversity place it among the most important mountain environments in the country. The high altitude offers ski lovers long-lasting snow-covered peaks, and the resorts are very popular amongst locals and international visitors, as it’s so close to the Greek capital.
Vasilitsa
Located in Valia Calda national park, here you can river-raft, hike, and four-wheel drive into the forest. As one of Greece’s most favourite ski centres, it extends into four slopes and comprises a set of 18 ski slopes for those who are advanced and just beginning, along with seven lifts and some off-piste opportunities. The area is also good for snowboarders and extreme sports enthusiasts. Don’t worry if you’ve never tried it before, expert teachers are there to guide you.
Gerondovrachos
Another popular part of the ski resort at Mount Parnassos is the facilities at Gerondovrachos. A smaller facility, it features three lifts, as well as 4 downhill, runs that range from 200m to almost 2 km. All facilities have a coaching school that offers first-timers handy lessons. Skis are available for hire and are sold as well at the local ski shop. This is by far Greece’s most popular and glamorous ski spot, as Arachova is one of the most popular winter destinations in Greece. With its luxurious boutique hotels, restaurants, bars, cafes and concept stores, Aracahova has lots to offer in terms of entertaining visitors who may not be so keen on skiing every day.
Pigadia
Located on Mount Vermio, this is another great spot for those that love adventure and adrenalin, as the ski centre has 10 runs accommodating all levels; including runs that have been named as the most challenging in the country. Must-see attractions nearby include the Saranta Outades cave with impressive stalactite and stalagmite formations, and Vergina, one of the most important archaeological sites in the country.
Pertouli
The ski centre of Pertouli is very popular. It’s located 45 minutes from Trikala and 5 hours drive from Athens. Here you can enjoy skiing and other adventures as the area is known for its lush greenery and trekking to the river of Pertouliotiko. Nearby is the river Achelos where you can go white water rafting and also visit the picturesque villages of Vlacha, Korpou, Ksiligefiro, Aspropotamos, Dessi, or Doliana with the Monastery of the Holy Cross with its 13 domes.
Kaimaktsalan
This is ideal for less experienced skiers as it has softer, easier slopes. If you don’t know how to ski rent a snowmobile or warm up with a herbal tea at the stone chalet. Stay in Agios Athanasios village where you’ll find charming guesthouses, old villas and great spots to eat. Take day trips from there to Prespes or Florina, Nymphaio or the villages around Lake Vegoritida. Don’t miss out on the beautiful Pella hot springs, which are surrounded by greenery.
Pelion
Mount Pelion reaches an altitude of 1500 metres, which makes it a favourite winter getaway for many locals. The ski resort is 2kms away from the village of Chania and there is a daily bus service from Volos. The centre has 7 slopes (with different levels of difficulty) and five lifts. The villages of Pelion are charming all year round; surrounded by lush greenery and full of natural springs, rivers and fountains. And apart from skiing, you can enjoy the cobblestoned squares and local taverns that serve comforting winter dishes.
Kalavryta
This Peloponnesian resort boasts 12 ski runs (2 difficult, 2 intermediate, 6 easy & 2 very easy) of 20km in length, 2 chair lifts and 5 ski lifts, special grounds for snowboarding and extreme games, and other winter attractions, such as a special moguls ski run, and a snowboard park. It’s one of the most popular and busiest ski locations in Greece and here you’ll find taverns and cafes where you can enjoy some local cuisine. Nature lovers can escape to the Vouraikos gorge for an invigorating trek and food-lovers visit the plane-tree forest of Planiterou to devour the fresh fish.
A new golf resort, which will be able to host international golf tournaments, as well as other high-end hotels are scheduled to open up in the region of Fokida- aiming to attract golfers and those seeking a luxurious, peaceful, and unique stay in Central Greece.
Reportedly budgeted at 300 million euros and set to create around 1,500 jobs for locals once completed, the main resort will feature a 36-hole golf course, a 5-star hotel, conference and leisure venues, restaurants, bars, as well as a wellness village. Landscaping is planned to include artificial lakes and trees.
The resort, to be constructed in Desfina, is expected to boost luxury tourism to the wider region, which includes destinations such as Delphi, Itea, Galaxidi, and Arachova. Other real estate development projects have also been approved nearby.
This includes the Doric Dune settlement, which has already been designed as a part of the Delphi Golf-Resort and is located in the area of Makranikolas, the southernmost part of the prefecture of Fokida at a distance of 22 kilometres from the Central Hotel unit.
The property boasts short-term accommodation spaces, which will operate all year round. It is aimed at visitors who want to experience the uniqueness of the natural landscape of Dorida, which boasts great views of the Corinthian Gulf.
The spaces are designed with relaxation and meditation in mind, and are located in a quiet and remote spot, 18 kilometres from the nearest settlement.
In the first phase of the design, four subterranean “cave” like spaces have been built, (from the proposed 16 in total) with the main inspiration being the Corinthian Gulf.
Two semi-roofed communal pools will allow guests to enjoy a swim all year round, regardless of the weather.
Each unit is around 60 sqm and can accommodate up to five people. The materials, style, and decor are fresh and raw and the approach has a clear reference to Doric motifs; featuring limestone, colourful clay plaster, and whitish cement mortar- the space has a real earthy and natural look/ feel about it.
Where is Fokida?
The prefecture of Fokida is centrally located in Central Greece. It is a green mountainous area, on the Corinthian Gulf with several small beaches. The most famous destination in Fokida is Delphi.
Situated 1300m above sea level Elatos Resort is the perfect winter escape. You can either relax and take in all the resort has to offer or if you are a ski enthusiast it is located just a hop away from the ski slopes of Mount Parnassos.
Location
It’s only 2.5 hours drive from Athens, close to the famous Mount Parnassos ski slopes, as well as the town of Arachova and Delphi. Only minutes away from the traditional village of Agoriani, the resort is in a secluded fir forest area brimming with fauna and providing for long walks surrounding lush greenery.
Style & Character
Warm and inviting, the beautifully designed log cabins are ideal for the cooler months. Rooms are minimally designed with plenty of wood accents.
Room Types
The resort features 40 secluded wooden chalets scattered throughout a 25-acre forest area; Classic Chalet for 2 – 4 ppl, 9 – Deluxe Chalet for 2-6 ppl and 11 – Family Chalet for 2 – 6 ppl.
Family Chalet
Classic Chalet
Facilities
The wooden chalets are scattered around a central Club House with an indoor pool, restaurant, bar, gym, kids-room, massage room and conference area.
Ideal for…
Anyone looking for an adventurous getaway as the area surrounding the resort is ideal for both experienced and amateur skiers and mountain bikers. The resort often has snowfall during the winter but also far cooler weather during the sweltering Greek summer months. It’s also perfect for families as The Club House offers two separate areas for recreation. The “kids room” is ideal for toddlers and small children, as it has space for kids to play freely. For nature lovers Elatos Resort & Health Club is a great starting point for a visit to the incredible nature of Mt Parnassus, as well as countless trails and paths that lead to green meadows and waterfalls that are over 80m high.
Food & Drinks
The “Itamos” restaurant, with a majestic view to the fir-forest and surrounding mountain, is located on the ground floor of the Club House. The chef prepares a menu that is inspired by the mountain and uses mostly locally sourced produce. During long weekends and the holiday season the kitchen team puts together themed buffets and gala dinners. The hotel’s bar is where you can enjoy your coffee with delicious snacks as well as premium drinks, cocktails, quality wines and aged tsipouro. During the winter months, the fireplace transforms the lounge into an intimate, charming meeting place.
Mainland Greece is magnificently multifaceted, and just as you can find stunning seaside locations for carefree summer fun full of aquatic adventures and seafood in summer you can relish lush, cozy alpine settings in winter.
From spas to action sports like hiking, skiing, rafting and climbing to strolling through picturesque villages with great restaurants, surrounded by marvellous landscapes and historic ruins, the options are endless. So start planning your post-lockdown adventures in wintertime Greece now!
Pelion
One of Greece’s lushest zones year-round, Mount Pelion is often compared to Tuscany for its beautiful nature and rustic architectural charm. A series of villages with pretty squares, cobblestone pathways and thickly forested areas resounding with the sound of running water from crystalline mountain springs and the smell of firewood immerse you in a romantic winter wonderland. In winter Pelion is perfect for trekking, enjoying heartwarming homemade-style traditional stews and soups at the old-fashioned taverns and skiing at world class resorts.
Zagori
With 46 traditionally-built and beautifully preserved villages of stone houses with slate roofs, amongst them some exemplary bed and breakfast places and boutique hotels, this region is tranquil, delightfully scenic and beautifully verdant. In Zagori you’ll also find the spectacular Vikos gorge, the deepest in Europe, with breathtaking views, and lovely rivers for white water rafting. See our story on Zagori here.
Meteora
Other-worldy with its giant stacks of rock that reach to the skies, rocks into which 25 monasteries are mystically built, this UNESCO World Heritage site is without a doubt one of the most incredible destinations in the world. Stay in the village of Kalabaka and take a few days to explore the geologically incredible landscape by foot, rock climbing, mountain biking or even by hopping into a hot air balloon to get an idyllic view from the top.
Pelion @urban_wanders
Zagori
Karpenisi
From skiing at the Velouchi Ski Centre and climbing to the Black Cave or rafting in Tavropos river, Karpenisi’s rich natural wonders can keep action adventure lovers busy and red-cheeked for days. Located in Evrytania, this traditional and verdant mountain destination offers all the winter charms one could wish for – pretty architecture, good food and quality accommodations where you can curl; up by the fire.
Arachova/Delphi
Sprawling under Parnassos mountain – one of Greece’s most popular skiing destinations -is the traditionally picturesque and simultaneously modern and glamorous village of Arachova. The alpine village is wonderful for shopping everything from local foods to designer items, sipping a glamorous cocktail at a trendy bar and taking in the culture of the nearby areas, such as the stunning ancient site of Delphi only 15 minus drive away or the Corycian Cave dedicated to the God Pan.
Metsovo
Almost like a film set because of its perfectly preserved traditional style, this Epirus village beneath the Tzoumerka mountain range is a favourite spot for skiers and fans of alpine allure. You’ll find everything from tourist shops selling ‘traditional’ items to cozy tavernas, but Metsovo is especially known for its excellent choice of local cheeses (especially the smoky Metsovone) and top-quality wines produced by the Averoff Estate.
Arachova is a stunning mountainous village that sits perfectly at the foot of Mount Parnassos, at an altitude of 973 meters. It’s considered to be the most cosmopolitan winter destination in Greece thanks to its cool all-day cafes/bars, fine dining restaurants, chic boutiques and luxurious hotels.
Due to its close proximity to Athens (around a 2-hour drive) over the cooler months, it is buzzing on the weekends with guests (many local and international celebrities and socialites) looking for a classy and cozy escape. We’ve gathered the Top 14 reasons as to why Arachova is a must-visit winter destination!
1. Discover the traditional character of Arachova Village by taking leisurely strolls through its narrow cobblestone streets. Here you will discover traditional little shops and you can mingle with the friendly locals. Make sure you sit down at an old kafeneio (cafe) and enjoy a traditional Greek coffee.
2. Here you will find Greece’s most popular ski resort, which is only a few minutes drive away from the village centre. You can enjoy skiing down the slopes of Mount Parnassos.
3. Thrill seekers can take part in outdoor activities such as hiking, and mountain biking as well as other winter sports like snowboarding and sledging at Gerontovrachos, Kelaria and Fterolaka.
4. Indulge in some shopping as here you’ll find local and international luxury brands as well as a great variety of skiing and outdoor gear. At the main shopping strip you will come across a range of chic boutiques stocking well-known brands as well as the popular concept store L’escalier which is full of stylish pieces.
5. Enjoy a winter cocktail, a glass of port, or a shot of Tsipouro at Isidora Gallery Bar, Sehre Cafe, Gospel or Doctor John Chillout Bar, which all serve up amazing drinks for the colder months.
6. Taste some local wines such as the Parnassos red variety “Mavroudi”, which has Protected Designation of Origin status since 2006, or the “Black Arachova Vine.”
7. Try the amazingFormaela cheese- usually served as melted ‘saganaki’ with a squeeze of lemon.
Sehre Bar
Isidora Gallery Bar
8. Also make sure you taste the local Amfissa olives.
9. To warm up, sit in front of a fireplace and sip on the locally grown organic mountain tea.
10. Taste authentic specialties including Trahana (soup), free-range wild boar, goat or rooster with Hilopites (handmade pasta), as well as Kotosouvli, Kokkoretsi, at taverns such as Panayiota, Fasouli, Kaplanis, Archontiko and Dasargiris. And for some French cuisine check out Le Sapin.
Le Sapin
Fasouli
Archontiko
11. Make sure you try the spoon sweets and honey, which you will definitely want to take home with you!
12. Visit the church of Agios Giorgios with its picturesque clock tower rising over the village. Byzantine churches and monasteries are very special here and every year, on the name day of Agios Giorgios, there is a huge festival in Arachova, celebrating this historical event and the Protector Saint of the town. There is a Holy Mass and celebrations outside the beautiful church, which sits on the highest spot of the town.
13. From here you can easily make your way to Delphi, the ancient sanctuary that is recognised by Unesco as a World Heritage Site. Visit nearby Parnassos National Park too.
14. The region of Arachova is well-known for its textiles and woodwork, before you leave make sure to pick up some hand-made coloured woven carpets (flocati rugs) and textiles to take with you.
