5 Fairytale Villages in Greece

Any part of Greece you choose to visit will unveil unique landscapes of incredible beauty! But the truth is, villages are often overlooked by the sun and sea seekers, who mostly visit the Greek island villages.

However, the country has a plethora of lovely places to explore, destinations that go beyond the hustle and bustle of the most well-known spots.

Immerse yourself in five of Greece’s fairytale villages and make sure you add them to your travel list.

Insights Greece - 5 Fairytale Villages in Greece

Metsovo

Situated in the mountains of Pindos, in Epirus, Metsovo is one of the most picturesque Greek villages, tranquil and beautiful, ideal for escaping the daily urban routine. Wander around its maze of alleys, enjoy the mountain peak views, and go for a refreshing hike. Metsovo keeps its traditional and authentic character and welcomes visitors all year long.

Tips: 

*You have to try its local, delicious cheeses, especially Metsovone; a smoked semi-hard cheese, made of both cow and goat milk that gets naturally smoked. 

*Go hiking in the nearby Valia Calda National Park, one of Greece’s best trekking destinations. Take in the beautiful natural landscape and, depending on the season, pick your favourite activity and have fun!

Insights Greece - 5 Fairytale Villages in Greece

Nymfaion, Florina

This mountain village in northern Greece is a stunning spot; a true gem. Explore the local shops within the cobblestone streets, capture the stone-built houses, drink a glass of locally produced wine and discover its rich history and traditions. 

Tips:

*If you’re an adventurous type of traveller, enjoy one of the various activities, depending on the season; try horseback riding, go mountain biking or enjoy canoeing. 

*Go to “Omegas tigris” for tsipouro and cold cuts.

Insights Greece - 5 Fairytale Villages in Greece

Agoriani, Parnassos

This tiny village on the slopes of Parnassos is a true fairytale. Agoriani, also known as Eptalofos, offers a beautiful natural landscape and is the best getaway alternative to the very popular Arachova. Unwind at one of the local tavernas under the plane and walnut trees, go skiing in the nearby ski centre, or hike in one of the trekking routes. 

Tips:

*Try the local delicacies, including honey and a range of meat.

Insights Greece - 5 Fairytale Villages in Greece

Stemnitsa, Arkadia

Stemnitsa is a mountain village in Arkadia, Peloponnese, and is considered one of Greece’s dreamiest locations. This charming village is known for its monasteries, stone houses, and silver and gold craftsmanship.

Tips:

*Don’t leave without buying a ring, a silver icon, or other jewellery items.

Insights Greece - 5 Fairytale Villages in Greece
Monemvasia, Laconia

No words can successfully describe the beauty of Monemvasia. Admire its medieval village enclosed within the “Kastro” (Fort), its romantic alleys that absorb the bougainvillea colours, and marvel at one of the most authentic Greek villages that manage to maintain their identity despite the mass tourism.

Tips: 

* Try locally produced fruity wine.

*Try Matoula’s homemade recipes for local tastes. 

Feeling inspired? Which fairytale escape will you choose?

Grilled Red Peppers Recipe 

Red peppers are used in various Greek dishes and although this recipe is simple it is extremely flavoursome. Having originated in Florina, Macedonia, where this popular pepper is cultivated, you can also dry and pickle peppers and keep them stored in jars for months. 

 
Ingredients
  • 1 kilo red sweet peppers
  • 1 garlic clove, finely chopped
  • extra virgin olive oil for drizzling
  • sea salt & cracked black pepper to taste
  • wine vinegar to taste 
Method 
  • Wash and dry peppers. 
  • Drizzle peppers with olive oil and place them on paper lined baking tray in the oven at high temperature (around 200 degrees Celsius) until their skins start turning black. Turn over and repeat on other side. 
  • Place the roasted peppers in a plastic bag and seal for around 10- 15 minutes and allow them to sweat. 
  • Open the bag and peel. Remove and discard the skin and seeds from inside. 
  • Allow to cool and then add salt, pepper, and garlic. Drizzle with a generous amount of olive oil before adding a splash of wine vinegar.

Recipe and Images by IN+SIGHTS GREECE © (Copyright) 

5 Best Towns in Greece to Visit in Autumn

Greece is a beautiful destination to visit during each season. But we love exploring some of the prettiest towns here in the fall.

Why? Fewer tourists, plus some of the most beautiful autumn foliage in the entire world. Whether you’re looking for a cozy weekend away, are desperate to breathe in some fresh mountain air, or just want to wander the local streets and enjoy traditional delicacies, here are five of the best places to visit in Greece during the autumn months.

Karpenissi (Central Greece)

Known as the “Switzerland” of Greece, this stunning town is perched at 960 meters on the slopes of Mount Velouchi and surrounded by fir trees. Offering a wonderful getaway from the city, Karpenissi is ideal for all travellers. If you are after some R&R you can relax by the fireplace in a charming boutique hotel, go for a romantic stroll in traditional settlements and enjoy the amazing local culinary delights. For those who prefer an adventurous holiday, you can  take part in all kinds of activities including white water rafting in the Trikeriotis and Tavropos rivers, canyoning in Vothonas, skiing and  paragliding in Velouchi,  riding, canoeing, hiking, mountain biking, swimming, trekking in the Pantavrechi ravine,  fishing in the Karpenissiotis river, or take part in truffle hunting  – Karpenissi offers it all.

Don’t leave until: Visiting Proussos Byzantine Monastery, trying the tastiest local dishes- at Paradisos Mikro Horio, a homemade Galaktoboureko at Rakomelo Karvelis and a late night cocktail at Eithistai Café.

Insights Greece - 5 Best Towns in Greece to Visit in Autumn
Insights Greece - 5 Best Towns in Greece to Visit in Autumn

Andritsaina (Peloponnese)

This gorgeous and picturesque mountain town has a long history; as it played a crucial role during the Greek War of Independence. Andritsaina  impresses visitors by its old stone mansions, its narrow cobbled streets and the central square (plateia), surrounded by tall trees and magnificent view of the nearby mountains. I Trani Vrysi is located on the opposite side of the plateia and is the Peloponnese’s oldest tap, built in 1724. From here you can visit the wonderful Temple of Epicurean Apollo, a World Heritage–listed site, located 14km south.

Don’t leave until: Visiting Nikolopoulios Library which contains unique and historical books, Alfeios River- the longest in the Peloponesse, and if you are there on the weekend make sure to go to the main square for the weekly markets- where you can buy some local delicacies including pasta, mountain tea and herbs.

  • Insights Greece - 5 Best Towns in Greece to Visit in Autumn
  • Insights Greece - 5 Best Towns in Greece to Visit in Autumn
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Galaxidi (Central Greece)

 This famous naval town is ideal for a long weekend getaway. Boasting stunning neoclassical houses pebble-covered courtyards, old captains’ mansions, lovely ports and an authentic feel is why you should add Galaxidi to a must visit Autumn destination. The naval and the folklore museums highlight the town’s rich history and just strolling around the port, you will come across many ancient treasures. Make sure to check out the area of Pera Panta.

Don’t leave until: Visiting the Church of Agios Nikolaos, trying the fresh local seafood, tasting a homemade Ravani (syrup drenched cake) and making a stop over at the archaeological site of Delphi, which is very close by.

  • Insights Greece - 5 Best Towns in Greece to Visit in Autumn
    Galaxidi Streets
  • Insights Greece - 5 Best Towns in Greece to Visit in Autumn
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Kalavryta (Achaea)

This charming town lies at the foot of Mt. Chelmos and it is a must-visit buzzing place during autumn and winter- with its stone-built houses, town squares, quaint alleys, buzzing cafés and authentic tavernas. The best thing is to hire a car and drive around to spots including the Monastery of Mega Spileo, carved against the slopes of a mountain, the historical Monastery of Agia Lavra where the Greek Revolution of 1821 was first declared and the miraculous Cave of the Lakes. One of the most popular things to do here is take a train tour around Vouraikos Gorge- it’s considered as one of the most scenic in Greece.

Don’t leave until: Visiting the historical Holocaust Monument, the miraculous church Panagia Plataniotissa, going on a hike or mountain biking as you take in the fresh mountain air, and buying some local products including handmade pasta, honey, and their delicious range of spoon sweets.

  • Insights Greece - 5 Best Towns in Greece to Visit in Autumn
  • Insights Greece - 5 Best Towns in Greece to Visit in Autumn
    Spilia Caves

Florina (Macedonia)

This quaint little town is filled with an array of cafes and restaurants. It’s a great spot to enjoy natural beauty, lush valley, hiking and winter sports. Boasting six magnificent lakes (Vegoritida, Petron Lake, Zazari, Ximaritida, Mikri and Megali Prespa), picture-perfect lakeside villages, and a beautiful capital traversed by a river. There is quite a bit to see, and start off with the Archaeological Museum next to the Railway Station and the Art Gallery a few doors down.

Don’t leave until: Visiting the Modern Art Museum and the House of Voyiatzis, checking out the impressive “House of Peios,” and the Turkish Baths, sitting at one of the hive cafes of Melas Pedestrian St for a coffee and local sweet, and trying unique local produce- including the famous sweet red peppers, and Prespa beans.

  • Insights Greece - 5 Best Towns in Greece to Visit in Autumn
    Sakouleva River
  • Insights Greece - 5 Best Towns in Greece to Visit in Autumn