Pelion could be considered one of the best-hidden corners of Greece as it offers a unique experience to its guests. The peninsula of Pelion stands proudly on the Aegean sea and it is located centrally on the mainland about halfway between Athens and Thessaloniki, Greece's second-largest city.
The city of Volos and its port sit at the top of this huge bay, Mount Pelion towering above them. It is not just a coincidence that according to ancient mythology, Pelion was the Olympian gods’ chosen place to relax and have their holidays.
Pelion consists of stone-built, picturesque villages, welcoming guests all year round. It is one of the few places in the country that in the winter, when it snows, people use the lifts and ski down Mount Pelion and during summer, the same sort of people come to swim, eat, relax and sleep.
My favourite area of Pelion is the eastern side, where you can enjoy and get mesmerized by the breathtaking views of the Aegean Pelagos. The most beautiful beaches in the area include Milopotamos, divided in two by a huge stone arch, Damouchari where they filmed scenes for Mamma Mia!, Agioi Saranta and Parisaina in Horefto. Fakistra beach is another lovely turquoise bay with soft sand and some rocky spots, amid huge cliffs boasting an exotic, quite wild scenery.
It is worth visiting the villages of Makrinista, Milies, Tsagkarada, Mouresi and Kissos for strolls in the tree-formed tunnels where you will find a vast variety of restaurants, cafes and patisseries serving local delicacies. These villages are made up of traditional little houses with grey stone roofs and paved alleys that ooze charm in abundance! Try local dishes with fresh ingredients such as Spentzofai which is the representative recipe of the area. Sausages with a variety of colourful peppers in a sticky tomato sauce.Visit Horefto to enjoy local seafood delicacies served as mezedes - finger food - accompanied with local tsipouro or wine.
Once in Pelion, visiting historical panigiria is a must. Panigiria is a local celebration during the summer months mainly in the villages where the patron saint is celebrated. You should expect lots of traditional live Greek music and lots of free food and drinks. You will sit, eat and dance with the locals who you will welcome you with lots of enthusiasm. Famous panigiria in Pelion include:
On July 17th, the village of Kissos celebrates the feast of Agia Marina. On August 15th there are panigiria organised in most villages of Pelion. Particularly popular are the ones in Vizitsa, Agios Lavrentios, and Kala Nera.
For those of a non-beachy disposition, as well as the hiking lovers, Pelion has a lot to offer in terms of natural beauty and walking paths. If you want to avoid tourist-packed places and if you enjoy the variety of natural landscapes, Pelion is considered a top holiday destination all year round!
Part of Pelion Mountain
Volos as seen from Pelion mountain
Mountzouris aka Pelion railway
Limnionas beach
Parisaina beach
Milopotamos beach
A well kept secret
Trikeri village
Papanero beach
Milopotamos beach
Damouchari beach
Chania village