Visiting Fanari, a Magnificent Seaside Village in Rodopi

Seaside villages such as Fanari, in northern Greece are often overlooked by sun-seekers heading to the islands. Barring the classic blue domes of the Aegean and the Italian-influenced architecture of the Ionian islands, travelling to northern Greece is a whole different experience worth one’s time and urge to explore.

Once in Thrace, visitors will come upon rows of seaside hamlets and villages- think of whitewashed harbours, beach taverns and hilltop churches- ready to be ransacked by those who don’t like to leave any stone unturned.

A great example of this is the magnificent Fanari village in Rodopi. 

Fanari, with its postcard-like appearance, is located in the southwest of the prefecture of Rodopi, in the centre of Thrace. The settlement has no more than 700 permanent residents but as it is positioned between the big cities of Xanthi and Komotini, it has fast become a tourist attraction something which is not going to change anytime soon!

TOP THINGS TO DO IN FANARI

1. Visit Lake Vistonida 

Adjacent to the village of Fanari is part of the famous Lake Vistonida, which circumscribes a unique ecosystem with several types of fish, mammals and birds. Driving through the highway from Komotini to Fanari, visitors can spot in Lake Vistonida a flamboyance of pink African flamingos and pelicans flying over from Lake Prespa, making Fanari the ideal destination for wild photography and bird watching, especially in late October when the flocks arrive.

2. Swim at one of Fanari’s beaches

Fanari is famous for its iconic blue flag beaches, a marker for environmental safety, and quality standards. Barakouda beach, the village’s main beach, is the place to go for a refreshing midday swim. Skala, the beach in front of the crowded promenade with the restaurants and cafés, is ideal for families and children playing whereas Ioulia beach, parallel to the main port of Fanari, is ideal for people with reduced mobility as a wheelchair ramp has recently been installed. In total, Fanari has five beaches and a coastline stretch that many Greek islands would be jealous of!

3. Fresh seafood at the port

Fanari has a plentiful of seaside restaurants and traditional taverns to serve you the best of seafood and fish. Whether you choose to sit at one in front of the promenade of the old harbour is totally up to you but our personal favourite is the traditional tavern ‘To Limani‘ (which in Greek literally means ‘The Harbour’). From here you can watch the fishing trawlers coming and going and the cats fighting for the remains of the catch of the day!

4. Sunset spotting

Skala is the best place for sunset spotting in Fanari. The wide, uninterrupted opening to the sea coupled with the changing sky colours reflected on the sea, makes this perfect for a romantic afternoon by the sea.

5. Coffee at the promenade

The best way to end your day in Fanari is to sit for a coffee at one of the promenade cafes. We recommend Daf Cafe for the sea views and Ioulia seaside café bar for the views of the port and the delicious beverages and cocktails. It also gets bonus points as it has access for people with mobility issues. 

Fanari is not the place of glitz and glamour that makes headlines but it is definitely a place that will offer you the most nonchalant time ever!

Need more information about Fanari village? Have a look at the official website offering information on hotels, restaurants and more.

Images By Anastasia Fountouli ©

Visiting Lake Plastira, A Nature Lovers’ Paradise

Lake Plastira, also known as “Little Switzerland” has become one of Greece’s most popular destinations year-round, with locals welcoming international visitors in all seasons.

It’s the perfect place to go on adventures, taste authentic local cuisine and wines, relax in cozy guesthouses and explore old monasteries and historic villages that are surrounded by an idyllic landscape of incomparable natural beauty. 

One of the largest artificial lakes in Greece, Lake Plastira is surrounded by the fir-tree peaks of the Agrafa mountains and is embraced by picturesque villages nearby.

The scenery is captivating and the area is considered to be a ‘paradise’ for all nature lovers as it offers adventures including rock climbing, fishing, kayaking, horseback riding, lake cycling, and all kinds of mountain-sports, such as trekking in the forest, as well as paragliding and flying sailplanes.

Foodies can taste local flavours and dishes which include a variety of grilled and stewed meats, trout cooked over charcoal, and other traditional dishes, that are paired perfectly with local Messenikolas wine. Charming local stone tavernas can be found at Kalyvia Pezoulas, Belokomitis, and Neohori, in the region of Tsardaki; they are known for their traditional recipes and wonderful hospitality and also make sure you sit down at one of the many kafeneia (cafes) and have a Greek coffee and homemade sweets with the locals. 

Don’t miss …

-Staying at a charming stone guesthouse with breathtaking views of the lake.

-Visiting the Monastery of Panagia Pelekiti, one of the most striking attractions in the area. It has two churches, Analipseos and Panagias, both built in 1640. 

-Tasting local wine at Messenikolas, one of three villages that cultivate the red-grape variety Black Messenikolas’ it’s also home to the Wine and Vineyard Museum, where you will learn about local production.

-The beautiful botanical garden of Neohori, located on the western side of the lake.

-Exploring villages near the lake including Fylakti, with its lovely town square; as well as Lambero, Kryoneri (with its lovely Agios Giorgios church) and Kastania.

Getting there…

Located at about 25 km west of Karditsa, at an altitude of 800m, it is set around 325 km away from Athens and 250 km from Thessaloniki and is known as one of the most easily accessible destinations in Greece.

 

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?