When the winter comes, an overwhelming desire to get away from the routine of the city even for a weekend is the best idea.
For me, the five ideal places for such an excursion are:
Metsovo
Just a few kilometers from Ioannina is the beautiful Metsovo. Notably, in the last few years, after the construction of the Egnatia motorway, the distance has reduced.
Considered that is one of the most picturesque villages of Greece, which, fortunately, has not lost in the “traditional” beauty, and it will automatically take you to a rural atmosphere. The stone houses, the 20 traditional fountains, the cobbled streets, the museums, and the monasteries make up a place worth to wander and learn about its history. Also, the artificial lake of “Aoo’s” water springs, with the unique landscape, the “Averoff’s” garden with all kinds of trees of Pindos range are just a few of the things you can enjoy if you decide to wander in the area.
In the square, you will find cafes and taverns with traditional flavors. From my experience, I suggest trying the “kontosouvli” as well as the local cheese “metsovone”.
Finally, if you love hiking, you will find several trails marked in the National Park of “Valia Calda,” while if you are a lover of winter sports, you can drive up to the ski resort Anilio http://www.snowreport.gr/anilio which is located at an altitude of 1650m. 1850m.
* You will have a great time even if walking around in the village. Also, It’s worth to see it snowy!
Pelion
The land of the Centaurs. There are no words to describe Pelion. A must destination! If you decide to stay in any of the Pelion’ villages, the fresh mountain air will fill your lungs, and nature will magnetize your look.
At a small distance from Volos City, is located the village of Portaria, where a stop for coffee in the square and a slice of warm cheese bread from the wood-fired ovens is that you need to start your weekend.
Continuing, you will find Makrinitsa, which are my favorite village! Don’t forget enjoying the unique view of the Pagasetic Gulf, unless it’s foggy (it would be a pity) and taste some of the wonderful sweets in the bakery of the square.
Tip: Stand inside the hollow of the tree in the center of the square for photos!
If you have a four-wheel vehicle, discover the route from “Chania” to “Drakia” or head to the ski center of Pelion for unforgettable sports experiences. http://www.pelionski.gr/
Finally, a proper wandering in the area includes a walk in the well-known for the apples, Zagora village where you can see the school where he studied Rigas Feraios. Furthermore, in Tsagarada, see the thousand-year-old plane tree in the middle of the square, and before going down for “Milies“ or “Vizitsa” make a stopover to Mylopotamos beach, gazing at the Aegean Sea.
* The unparalleled natural beauty will captivate you.
Natural spa Pozar (Pozar means “under the fire”)
The spa town of Pella deservedly attracts hundreds of visitors every year!
A weekend in the natural spa is the ultimate escape from the routine.
With facilities that include hotels, restaurants, sanatoriums, indoor and outdoor pools, and a Turkish bath, you won’t want to get out of there.
The waters that gush from the mountain is always at 37 degrees centigrade, and as long as you enjoy the healing properties, you can observe the rich landscape with waterfalls high-temperature river Toplitsa that flows continuously next to you.
From there, begin various paths that lead you on a walk in this nature’s miracle.
It’s, also, worth to visit the cave park of the baths, which consists of a complex of 17 caves with findings that indicate the habitation of the area at the Neolithic age. Additionally, a taste of the local products is offered by the producers in the various stalls at the entrance of the spa town.
* If you want my opinion, the rejuvenation is a guarantee, and this experience will be unforgettable!
Palaios Ag. Athanasios – Kaimaktsalan
Built on the foothills of Kaimaktsalan at an altitude of 1200 meters above sea level is located the traditional settlement of the “Palaios Ag. Athanasios”. A place that I love and recommend unreservedly.
The architecture, comprised of stone and wood, justifies its name as “Stone Village”. It reminds me of the region of Zagori. The traditional houses, the restored buildings, the taverns and the views of the lake Vegoritida create a fairytale landscape, perfect for winter escapes.
The area offers several outdoor activities like skiing or snowboarding in the ski resort of Voras-Kaimaktsalan http://kaimaktsalan.gr/, off-road cars 4X4, hiking in the woods, mountain climbing, horse riding and more.
* Definitely worth a visit and believe me you won’t regret it.
Kalavryta
Last but not least!
I come from a village near the Kalavrita area, and I have had the opportunity to explore the whole region.
As one of the best winter destinations in the South Achaia, it is appropriate for those who adore the tree-lined slopes, hiking, and good food!
If you are a lover of winter sports, the ski center of Helmos https://www.kalavrita-ski.gr/ (the site also has live webcams to see the weather and the slopes) will compensate you.
Also, you can visit the cave of the lakes, the monastery of Agia Lavra and the Great Cave or choose to drive up to the plane tree forest of Planitero.
Finally, a good choice is and the ascent/descent of Vouraikos with the historic “Odontwtos”, making a stop in Zachlorou for breakfast.
* Remember that a walk in nature is the best medicine!