Platitudes and every travel cliché in the book have been used to describe holidaying in Pelion – sun, sea, lush greenery – but the thing that you have to keep in mind when it comes to it is that in Pelion there is an array of traditional accommodation stays that allow you to fully immerse yourself in an authentic Greek cultural experience. Here’s one such accommodation we recently stayed at – Victoria’s Country Apartments in Zagora!
Decades from now, my daughter will ask in awe ‘Did we really go on holiday in Pelion when I was 7 months old?’, to which the only response is ‘Yes, we drove several hours until we reached the beautiful village of Zagora in East Pelion and received the most heartwarming welcome from our hostess Victoria who made our trip unforgettable in so many ways!’. Then, I will proceed by showing her some pictures of our room.
There are eight spacious, two-bedroom apartments, all of them designed uniquely with treehouse beds and traditional stone-built walls by Victoria herself. We stayed at the Peacock – a large room on the first floor with a big wooden bed that was surrounded by colourful hand-painted peacocks on the walls. We had a wooden Greek-style kitchenette (where I prepared my daughter’s breakfast every morning), a sitting area, a Moroccan-style bathroom with in-build shower and spectacular tiles, and a balcony with a stunning view overlooking the Aegean!
Every morning Victoria would wake up early to prepare and serve us a feast for the eyes kind of breakfast with no two breakfasts alike regardless of how many days we stayed in her traditional accommodation.
Our options would vary from traditional Greek phyllo pies with fillings from Victoria’s organic vegetable patch, omelettes, fruit salads, pancakes, Greek yogurt with plums and cherries and freshly squeezed orange juice accompanied by the standard tea and coffee. We would sit on the balcony and have small sips of the coffee while devouring the omelettes and nibbling on the pies and pancakes. All while taking in the sea and mountain views with the sound of birds chirping in the background.
But what makes Victoria’s room so special is not just that, foregoing the beautiful, clean rooms and delicious food, and taking part in the local activities will make for an altogether richer and more rewarding holiday in Zagora.
Luckily, Victoria’s daughter, Kiki, is happy to show you around the most well-sought places to explore, connect you with the local travel guides and tell you about the history of the place.
From here, you can embark on the square of Zagora for a coffee or souvlaki, have a little shopping trip around Sindetiras jewellery store, Istos Pelion for traditionally woven scarves and cushions from the loom of the owner Kaiti, Gi Anatolis for souvenirs and higgledy-piggledy gifts, and the Women’s Agrotourist Cooperative of Zagora store with the delicious jams and liqueurs.Into history? Then visit the Museum of Zagora, situated a short car ride away on your way to Horefto beach. There is a parking space and the famous school where Rigas Feraios studied is just opposite the museum. Then, there’s also the Public Library of Zagora with an impressive collection of original manuscripts but you better make sure it is open before you visit.
Whatever you decide to do, I am sure you will have fun!
Pelion is a place close to my heart. This is where I met my husband, where we fell in love and got married. A less-visited place- it’s rich in history, has delicious food, blissful beaches and welcoming locals. Since then, I’ve come to love the word ‘Pelion,’ as it has gifted us so many moments that we will cherish forever.
When we received an invitation for a week away in East Pelion, I could not believe our luck. I remained standing in front of my inbox with a look akin to a deer caught in headlights. We hadn’t visited Pelion for almost two years now so we, of course, welcomed the opportunity and within a few days found ourselves in Zagora.
We were very lucky to have friends who live in Zagora (Kiki Tsourou I am looking at you!) and were happy to play the tourists in their own town, showing us the best of what East Pelion has to offer including all the activities one can do here, the places one has to visit and the places to go for food and fun. Here, I’ve compiled a list of all the things we did for when you visit.
Horefto BeachHorefto Camp
Getting There & Getting Around
Pelion is located in the municipality of Magnesia in the middle of the Greek mainland. It is approximately a 5-hour drive from Athens and a 3-hour drive from Thessaloniki. There are also daily flights to Volos airport which is an hour’s drive to East Pelion. Depending on how much you want to explore while in East Pelion, I strongly recommend you hire a car as access to some places is not doable with public transportation, which is not the best and with the most regular routes, if you ask me. Also, the road to get to East Pelion is a bit wonky and has a series of bends, so keep that in mind when driving around.
But with views as such, who would mind a few bends and turns?
Pouri VillageDriving to Zagora
Where to Stay
If you would like to experience both the mountain and the sea, I strongly recommend you spend half of your time in Zagora and the other half in Horefto. If you, however, prefer the uncharted and unexposed beauty of mountain villages then Pouri and Tsagkarada may be the ideal ones for you.
Where to Sleep
If you would like to stay in Zagora then look no further than Victoria’s Country Apartments in the centre of Zagora. This traditional accommodation was built in harmony with the unique architecture of the area in 2003. They offer spacious, two-room apartments with the best sea views but what makes this accommodation so special is the owner herself, Victoria. A smiley lady that decorated each room with taste and offers you daily the tastiest breakfast prepared by her own hands. If you are more of a beach person though, then Aeolos Hotel Villas in Horefto beach is for you. Think of white-washed houses in a secluded rose garden with sea views and two swimming pools for those who like to have the best of both worlds. If you are more of an adventure person though and camping, or even glamping, is your jam, Camping Horefto is for you. A 5-star camping site with facilities for the disabled, glamping tents and a cafe area, it gives an extra twist to camping as you know it.
Camping HoreftoVictoria’s ApartmentsAeolos Hotel Villas
Where to eatand drink
In Zagora, taste local grilled meat at Stou Psilou a few steps further than the central square of the village. Ylien Cafe in the square is another great place to have a cold beer and try their pizza or one of their traditional desserts. In Pouri, go to Polydroso restaurant at the little square for local meze and views of the mountain. On your way to Elitsa beach turn right and visit Plimari Tavern located on the less known Analipsi beach. To get there you will get off the beaten path as Analipsi beach is a secluded area but it is worth the ride. Plimari Tavern offers the complete Pelion experience with fresh seafood, ouzo, and grilled meat in a seaside setting. From here you can go for a walk along the Analipsi beach, have a swim and come back to enjoy another dish or have some coffee. Sevah Horefto is another great tavern that you must visit when on Horefto beach. Located in the middle of the main road, under centuries-old plane trees, just a few meters away from the sea, the owners Matina and her husband Spyros will make you feel most welcome. Try the penne with salmon alla vodka or ask for the catch of the day, as Spyros goes fishing and cooks it fresh every day.
East Pelion beaches have pristine, crystal-blue waters! Horefto beach is a great place to start, especially if you are looking for bars, supermarkets and restaurants nearby. Ideal for families and those who like to play on the beach and dive in and out of the water many times per day. Elitsa beach with the famous heart-shaped rock is another great choice. For a morning swim go to Analipsi beach and then have a light lunch at Plimari Tavern. If you are looking for beach bars then Agioi Saranta, Agios Ioannis and Plaka beach are for you. Damouchari beach is the famous place where parts of the movie ‘Mamma Mia’ were filmed, a must-visit place if you are in East Pelion! Last but not least, Paralia Fakistra and Paralia Milopotamos. It’s a long drive to go but when you dive into the cold waters with the wavelengths of light playing on the surface of the sea, you realise that it was totally worth it!
Elitsa BeachAgioi Saranta
East Pelion’s history
Since ancient times, Pelion has played a major role in the country’s history. According to Ancient Greek mythology, Mount Pelion was the homeland of Centaurs, the mythical creatures that were half-men and half-horse. So much was their adoration by humans that Chiron, the wisest and justest of them all became the tutor of Asclepius the father of medicine, and showed him how to use herbal medicine to heal humans. Spending time in East Pelion and seeing the dense, jungle-like forest and wild herbs surrounding the villages, is enough to convince you that these myths are not entirely narrated without a sound basis.
Just walking through the villages of Zagora, Tsagkarada and Pouri you notice distinct elements of mixed Ottoman and Venetian architecture revealing the once rulers of the area.
More particularly, in Zagora, you will find the Kassavetio Girl’s School, which was the first girls’ school founded in Ottoman Thessaly in the 19th century, the Rigas Feraios school where the writer was educated, the mayor hall of Zagora, a majestic building with thick walls by the square of the village and The Women’s Agricultural Association of Zagora, a place where local women using old recipes create magnificent delicacies that are sold all over the country.
HoreftoHomemade delicaciesZagora TownZagora SquareZagora Womens Association
Can’t leave without…
Going for a hike through the beautiful mountain Pelion with a registered, professional guide like George Xiradakis from Pelion Scout. George’s aim is to safely guide you through the hiking pathways of East Pelion, tell you about the story of the place, show you the vegetation and explain all about the area’s microclimate. If you are lucky enough you may even pick some mushrooms as we did. Into culinary experiences? Then book a session with Pelion Scout and Taste Pelion! While George will guide you through the mountain, Chef Vaggelis Vouzaras will cook for you in the great outdoors. Choose the trail to ‘Vathres’ (natural plunge pools in Greek), it is ideal for people of all fitness backgrounds and a very enjoyable one as you see the scenery of the mountain changing while on course. Into multi-day adventures? Then book a sea caves adventure, sail to uninhabited lands, swim in the translucent waters of wild sea caves, wander along scenic seaside paths, and feast outdoors on authentic Greek delicacies! Into Greek language retreats? Then be a Greek for a week and book yourself a language retreat with Mona Spachi at Pelion this summer!
Taste PelionView from Mayor HallAnastasia exploring with Pelion Scout
No matter what you choose to do, I’m sure of one thing- once you leave you will want to return back!
If you would love to combine a beautiful getaway to Pelion, with locals teaching you how to make authentic Greek dishes (from recipes that have been passed down through generations) using fresh produce that you handpick from their organic farm- look no further than Kritsa Cookery.
Overlooking Portaria’s village square, Kritsa is a popular hotel, restaurant, and cooking school, renowned amongst Greek foodies for their authentic techniques and fresh flavours, which highlight the region’s rich culinary flair.
“We organise the cooking lessons to introduce visitors to the culinary treasures that our country offers. Exceptional local cooks pass on traditional recipes and techniques,” says the Karaiskos family.
Pick your ingredients from the organic family farm, which is filled with an array of colourful fruits, vegetables and herbs; including potatoes, tomatoes, cucumbers, zucchinis, eggplants, pumpkins, peppers, radishes, beets, mushrooms, carrots, lettuce, onion, oregano, parsley, dill, greens, other edible herbs and mountain tea. They also grow trees with apples, plums, cherries, quinces, sour cherries, figs, peaches, apricots, pears, chestnuts, walnuts and apples.
Then once you’ve chosen your fresh ingredients, you learn how to make authentic Greek dishes including kolokithopita (pumpkin pie), and spetzofai (Pelion’s famous casserole of local sausage, green peppers and grated tomatoes). Or try your hands at easier classics such as strapatsada (scrambled eggs with tomatoes and olive oil) or greens with eggs. Other popular dishes are the traditional Pelion bean soup know as fasolada and stewed goat meat, gida vrasti. Famous salads of tsitsiravla, vergia and kritama are also on the menu.
You can find cooking classes focused on seafood and other meat dishes- using fresh local produce; and one of the most popular is the Greek pie lesson, where local women share their tips and secrets on making filo dough the traditional way and filling it with fresh vegetables and herbs collected straight from the farm’s garden and then baking it in the wood oven.
There’s also a range of desserts and once your meal is ready, you are able to enjoy your food combined with local Greek organic wines- as you take in the beautiful countryside atmosphere. Throughout the day, the Karasikos family also treats their guests to a range of local cheese, olives, homemade bread, their homemade spoon sweets, liqueurs, coffee and other delicious delicacies- to ensure it’s a memorable and flavour-filled experience.
Located almost directly between Athens and Thessaloniki, Pelion is a place that very few foreigners seem to know about. You’ll find very few crowds here and in some spots, locals-only- as this is by far one of Greece’s best-kept secrets.
You could drive around and see a lot of Pelion in one day, but if you have the chance we recommend you take your time and split your stay between the east and west and the mountains in the north, and explore as many of the charming villages as possible to get a feel of the local culture and traditions. Stroll through cobbled lanes and explore old stone mansions, tiny churches, and numerous water fountains; as you stop off and try enticing local products from small stores and taste authentic dishes at the taverns scattered around the village squares.
The whole region of the Pelion Peninsula is very lush and green, with so much nature to explore. There’s a wonderful mountain for hiking, gorgeous beaches to swim, and rocky cliffs that offer magnificent views of the region. And if you are a foodie, you can spend your entire time here eating your way around as you taste some of the most mouthwatering dishes.
How to get there
If you prefer to fly, the closest airport is Nea Anchialos Airport, about 30 km from Volos. Buses from Athens to Volos depart from Liossion KTEL Bus Station and it takes around 5 hours. From Thessaloniki, buses depart for Volos from Macedonia KTEL Bus Station and it’s a 3-hour trip. KTEL buses connect to various villages. If you have hired a car from Athens, you can drive via the National Highway Athens-Thessaloniki and it takes about 5 hours.
Getting around
In order to really explore the Pelion Peninsula, the best way is to have your own car. Public transport can not get you to all the places we mention below and with so much to see, you’ll definitely want to get around at your own pace.
Portaria @annetravelfoodie
Best time to visit
Verdant and mountainous, and blessed with a beautiful coastline, the peninsula is wonderful for touring around and exploring- no matter what time of the year it is. In winter, when it snows, people come from Thessaloniki and Athens to ski down Mount Pelion. In summer, people from all over Greece come here to swim in the most crystal of clear water. It’s great in spring when the lush green is greener, the flowers are blooming and in the autumn, the colours of the forested mountain slopes are stunning and you can see an apple, walnut, and chestnut trees shed their fruits.
Things to do
-Take a ride on the legendary old steam train of Pelion (popularly known as Moutzouris). This train started working in the late 19th century and played a key role in the development of Pelion.
–Centaur’s Path in Portaria village is a hidden gem in Pelion, surrounded by splendid nature. The path is marked with red circles on stones, so as not to deviate from it. There is also a fountain with drinking water and some benches for visitors to rest before continuing their journey.
–Spring of Manas is found in Portaria, in a forest with dense vegetation, really close to Centaur’s Path. The unspoiled natural surroundings are breathtaking, and there are some lovely bridges that help you cross the small stream.
Museums
Greek School Museum is the name given to the old school where the famous freedom fighter (against the Turks), Rigas Valestinlis-Feraios attended. This building, also known as the School of Rigas, was also the school of other famous Greek personalities. Nearby, there is the Library of Zagora which has more than 15,000 old books and manuscripts.
The Museum of Folk Art and History of Pelion is housed in the Topali mansion, beneath the central square of Makrinitsa. The mansion was built in 1844 and looks like a fortress. It hosts items depicting folklife on Pelion.
The Museum of Worry Beads (Komboloi) is an appendix of the same museum in Nafplion. It presents the history and variety of worry beads, which is a huge part of Greek culture.
Spiritual sites
The historical Church of Agioi Taxiarches in the square of Milies was founded in the 17th century and was renovated in 1741. Inside, there are some unique frescoes with scenes from the Bible. Church of Agia Marina in the square of Kissos stands under tall plane trees and the Church of Panagia, established in 1767 is dedicated to the Assumption of the Virgin. It has interesting architecture and a tall bell tower, with bells from Odessa. The Byzantine Monastery of Agios Lavrentios was established in 1378 on the ruins of an older monastery. It played an important role in the Greek War of Independence and also deserves a visit.
Adventurous things to do
Mountain Climbing: soft slopes and easily accessed peaks make Mount Pelion a popular destination for hiking lovers and weekend mountain climbers. Two mountain shelters, one at Agriolefkes and the other at Agios Georgios of Zagora are very popular amongst locals.
Skiing: In Agriolefkes, near Hania, there is also a great resort for skiing lovers.
Mountain biking: with an abundance of mountain routes and trails this area is ideal for mountain biking.
Canyoning: this is one of the most popular activities available here as you can explore unknown lakes and ravines.
Cycling: bike along many of the area’s winding roads, which offer striking views of the sea below.
Kayaking: enjoy a sea kayaking trip along the coast. The scenery is gorgeous, especially going along the crystal clear water.
Sailing: the closest island to the Pelion Peninsula is Skiathos, which you can reach from the port of Volos. The waters around this island are an amazing place to go sailing.
Hiking: most of the trails link old villages and will lead you past beaches, along abandoned railways. The best hiking is around Mount Pelion in the northern part of the peninsula.
Must visit traditional villages of Pelion
Portaria is one of the most modern villages of Pelion, located at the foot of Mount Pelion, it’s the first village you come across when driving from Volos. Here you will find a range of luxurious hotels, restaurants, tavernas, cafes, bars, and shops.
Zagora is situated on the eastern slopes of Mount Pelion, with a great view of the Aegean. Zagora has four districts, all meeting around the central square of Agios Georgios, having taken its name after the adjacent small church. Here you will find the famous 18th Century Public Library, which nowadays operates as a lending library with many and great, rare books.
Vyzitsa boasts stone-paved alleys, mansions, lush greenery, and stone fountains. Climb up its central cobblestones alley heading for the central square or walk around the picturesque neighbourhood of Argyraiika, and go hiking to Milies or to the coastal village of Kala Nera.
Makrinitsa is known for offering one of the best panoramic views to Volos and the stunning Pagasetic Gulf has retained the traditional Pelian architecture and construction. Its lovely stone-paved alleys, enchanting fountains, and lovely plants, all make Makrinitsa one of the most breathtaking destinations of Pelion. There are also unique art cafes and galleries run by talented local artisans displaying their beautiful creations.
Pinakates is a remote village that boasts majestic views; its small central square sheltered under a big plane tree combined with its authentic scenery lures locals and visitors alike.
Tsagkarada lies 500m above sea level on the eastern side of Mount Pelion, along a densely
wooded area, looking out to the Aegean. Here, you feel close to nature with an abundance of chestnut and plane trees. Sit and have a coffee at the central square of Agia Paraskevi, where the great Plane Tree, which is ten centuries years old is the main feature. If you are here during November, make sure you visit the Chestnut Festival, where you can enjoy grilled chestnuts as well as other local delicacies, plus traditional music and dance.
In Milies, you can visit the craft museum and the library, and make sure to have lunch in the taverna at the old railway station.
Beaches of Pelion
On the eastern side of the Pelion peninsula, there are some gorgeous beaches with mesmerizing waters. Mylopotamos, Fakistra, and Agios Ioannis are some of the most popular beaches here. Also check out Chorefto, Potistika, and Damouchari- they are just as striking as each other.
Don’t leave until you…
-Experience a day trip around the Pelion Peninsula to visit the Sea Caves of Thetis. You’ll leave from either the port of Chorefto or Agios Ioannis. From there, head north and discover an uninhabited and truly unspoiled coastline as you explore the stunning sea caves with your guide and even have the chance to swim and snorkel in some of them along the way.
-Stop by a welcoming little women’s cooperative in Vyzitsa where a wonderful selection of seasonal jams, marmalade, spoon sweets, and other products are produced. You can sample many of the products and support the Women’s Agritourism Cooperative in Vyzitsa. Visitors can buy all the handmade products, while also watching how they’re made.
-Attend a cooking school such as Kritsa in Portaria. You can learn how to make local dishes based on organic farm produce (which also supplies the restaurant). Pick your ingredients before making spetzofai (Pelion’s famous casserole of local sausage, green peppers, and grated tomatoes).
-Buy some local herbs and spices from Myrro in Portaria. Try the teas, herbs, and spices – sourced from Pelion, and other small Greek suppliers from the rest of Greece.
-Visit Karaiskos Farm an organic farm that produces lots of fresh fruits and vegetables,
such as potatoes, tomatoes, cucumbers, zucchinis, eggplants, pumpkins, peppers, radishes, and more. They also keep chickens and produce their own eggs. You’ll learn how to use fresh food to make tasty regional dishes and family recipes during your class on the farm.
Where to eat
Starting off casual, try the best bakery in Pelion- Korbas, Milies –and taste the delicious eliopsomo (olive bread). Run by the same family for three generations the bakery is famous for its cheese bread, biscuits, pies, and homemade pasta.
El Resto-Bar:Located in the Agapitos Villas this is a cozy spot serving up a variety of modern dishes and Greek-inspired cocktails and authentic spirits (Tsipouro being the main one).
Taverna Paradisos: This traditional Greek tavern right on the sea offers a range of local dishes including meat and seafood.
Anapodo Platani: A creative and modern restaurant, this is the place to go if you want to try some Modern Greek cuisine.
Dipnosofistis Restaurant Bar: Has been operating since 1992 on the old road that leads to Mylopotamos beach, at a beautiful estate covered with fruit trees and plants.
Kardamo: With wonderfully rustic decor, this tavern is nicely situated on the hillside of Markinitsa, with splendid views way down from the mountains to the seaside of Volos.
Taverna Meintani: The locals refer to this taverna as Niki’s (name of the owner) who has been cooking here for over two decades. Eating at Niki’s is like being invited into her cozy home; she grows all of her fruit and vegetables, before baking, stewing, or preserving them in sugar syrup.
Apolafsi, Makrinitsa: head here for the best restaurant with a view!
Aggelika, Mylopotamo: this is one of the best fish restaurants in Pelion. Set above the turquoise waters of Mylopotamos beach, this restaurant was set up by a fisherman and named after his daughter- needless to say, the fresh catch of the day is a must-try!
Six Keys, Afyssos: This is a high-end modern Greek restaurant that offers fine wining and dining. Dishes here, devised by Greece’s superchef Ioannis Baxevanis, showcase unique local ingredients while providing creative twists on traditional Greek favourites.
Local delicacies & dishes
Many authentic Greek products can be found in Pelion, including extra virgin olive oil, local house wine, vinegar, golden thyme honey, fruit liqueurs, a wonderful variety of herbs and teas, and many sweets and jams. Pelion is also famous for its chestnuts, hazelnuts, and walnuts.
The most famous fruit of Pelion is fyriki, a type of small apple that is largely cultivated in the traditional villages of the area and they turn it into a nice spoon sweet.
The traditional specialties of Pelion include a white bean soup called Fasolada, cheese-bread called Tyropsomo, olive bread- Eliopsomo, high-quality meat as many locals are involved with cattle breeding and Spetsofai, a spicy dish with peppers and sausage cooked in tomato sauce. Also try the Kapamá roast stuffed lamb with greens, rice, and herbs, oven cooked for 3-4 hours. Also try the Boubári roasted sausage – stuffed mutton sausage with rice, minced meat, greens, and herbs, oven cooked with potatoes; and Anthákia – Zucchini blossoms, stuffed with rice and herbs, cooked in a casserole or fried with cheese stuffing. And for a vegan delight, Tsitsiravla is a vegetable dish of pickled tender leaves.
To drink
Anna na Ena Milo, Milies, with its art-plastered walls, single-origin coffee, and sixties music is a cool spot to grab a Frappe. Try the homemade cakes and pies and sit in the glass-roofed verandah for a spot of people-watching. Also check out: Cafes Mirtillos, Agna Di Cafe DiVino, Art Cafe Makrinitsa, Ylien, Aeriko, and Antico.
For some great wine, head to Milea Winery and Anapodo Platani Wine Bar. The magnificent building is an old café of the traditional architectural style of Pelion, which has been converted into an elegant yet homely wine bar with vintage chandeliers and wooden handmade marble top tables.
Where to stay
Kritsa Gastronomy Hotel: If food is one of the main reasons for coming to the Pelion Peninsula (and it should be), then consider staying right on Karaiskos Farm at the Kritsa Gastronomy Hotel. Just like the farm itself, the hotel is family-run and sustainably operated, and the majority of its delicious food comes right from the organic farm next door.
Sunrise Tsagkarada: The hotel is locally run in a sustainable building, and it uses all kinds of eco-friendly products during day-to-day operations. The hotel is also beautifully designed and has a fantastic pool with incredible views.
For some more boutique hotels check out Archontiko Sakali, Amanita, Lotus Tree, and The Old Silk Store.
At Agios Lavrentiοs, Magnesia, a 19th-century oil mill has turned into a luxurious guesthouse, keeping all the traditional elements of the original stone building. “Palio Eleotrivio” is located next to a small river. Its large rooms are characterized by the warmth of combining wood and stone and the great care the owner showed in equipping them.
Anovolios Boutique Hotel is found in the beautiful village of Agios Georgios Nilias, in Pelion, and has a unique view of Pagasitic Bay, Evia Island, the Sporades islands, and surrounding mountains.
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.
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.
