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Greece, the country of 6,000 islands, is so much more than just a summertime destination. With 80% of its territory being mountainous, it is also a winter Wonderland. Majestic mountains, snow-covered lovely villages, ski resorts sitting at high altitudes with charming chalets, fairytale landscapes, hearty traditional dishes and plenty of must-see attractions are waiting to be discovered. Below we’ve put together a list of northern Greece’s top 10 winter destinations with ski resorts.
1. Metsovo (Ioannina, Epirus)
Situated in a beautiful part of the Pindos mountain range at an altitude of 1200m, the inviting mountain town of Metsovo will charm you. Stone-built houses with red tile roofs, drinking fountains, traditional Epirus architecture, rich cultural heritage, natural beauty, ski slopes and exquisite cuisine and wine make Metsovo one of Greece’s favourite getaways. The homeland of national benefactors like Georgios Averoff, Michael Tossizza and Nikolaos Stournaras, and the largest centre of Aromanian (Vlach) life in Greece, is an excellent destination for travelers seeking an authentic Greek mountain village atmosphere and folklore. Art lovers, will love it too. At the Averoff Art Gallery, you can admire sculptures and paintings by some of the most prominent Greek artists of the 19th and 20th centuries. Don’t miss the Tositsa mansion, which houses the Folk Art Museum. Metsovo is also a paradise for foodies who can embark on a culinary adventure that will tantalize their taste buds. PDO metsovone, metsovela, galotyri and batsisio cheeses, delicious kontosouvli, sausages, tons of pies, as well as aromatic red Katogi wine, are only a few of the gastronomic gems you will discover. The locals take pride in their products, customs and crafts, for a good reason!
If you love action, then head to Anilio Park, the country’s newest ski resort, which started operations in 2012. It is just 17 minutes from Metsovo. The winter sports area is situated between the elevations of 1,650 and 1,850 m. The ski center features 13 ski slopes for all levels of skiers and snowboarders, as well as the possibility of downhill skiing. It is ideal for those who want to try their hands at cross-country skiing. Facilities include a two-seater lift of 800 meters, two slidings 280 and 300 meters, two baby lifts and two snowmobiles. The Snowpark for snowboarders is featuring rails & boxes, obstacles and jumps. There is a ski school, a ski and snowboard equipment rental shop and an amazing stone-built chalet on two levels with spectacular views of the slopes. The organized park will keep visitors busy during the summer too. Mountain bike, mountain running, slackline, climbing and hikking are some of the outdoor activities offered during the warm period.
The second ski center of the area (Karakoli) is 1.5km away from Metsovo, has 2 medium slopes and a lift.
Profitis Ilias Ski Center, is the third ski center in the area and is 4 kilometers away from Metsovo. It features 6 slopes and 3 lifts, chalet, ski school and equipment rental store. It is ideal for inexperienced skiers.
Metsovo is also a perfect base station to visit Artificial Lake of Aoos’ springs, a habitat of great importance for the area. The monasteries of Panagia with its renovated watermill Gkina and Agios Nikolaos with its 17th century wall paintings are also worth exploring, both built on the banks of river Metsovitis, just outside Metsovo. Ioannina, the closest city to Metsovo, is another beautiful place. Whether you visit in the winter or in the summer, Metsovo and its surroundings will captivate you.
Useful info
Municipality of Metsovo
Area: 363.7 km2 Population: 6,196 Website: https://dimosmetsovou.gr/ Email: dmetsovou@1429.syzefxis.gov.gr Tel: +30 26563 60333
Anilio Park
Website: https://www.aniliopark.gr/ Email: info@aniliopark.gr Tel: +30 2651200520 Distances: Ioannina 49km – Thessaloniki 213 km – Athens 454 km
2. Palaios Agios Athanasios (Pella, Central Macedonia)
Formerly known as Tsegani, the preserved village of Palaios Agios Athanasios aka as “Stone village”, is located at the foot of Voras Mountain (or Kaimaktsalan), the third highest (2,524 m) mountain in Greece. Having also the nickname “Austria of Northern Greece”, Palaios Agios Athanasios was declared a traditional settlement in 1992. With its mazey stone-paved alleyways, restored houses bearing Macedonian architecture, beautiful little shops, round yellow street lamps and busy nightlife, Palaios Agios Athanasios is a favorite winter destination for a growing number of holiday makers. There are plenty of accommodation options from luxury suites to cozy guesthouses, harmonized with the mountain environment, as well as traditional taverns and restaurants where you should try “batso” cheese and “tsouskes” peppers.
The “Stone Village” is just 16 km from Kaimaktsalan Ski Centre, the highest in the country (located at 2000 – 2524 m) which opened in 1995. It features 13 slopes up to 11km of skiing, 3 t-bar lifts, one aerial lift with two-person double chairs and two baby tow lifts. There is a store for ski and snowboard equipment buys and rentals, a ski school with expert trainers, two chalets (one built at an altitude of 2,075m and the other at 2,050m). At the highest peak of the mountain, there is the chapel of Profitis Ilias and a monument dedicated to Serbian and Bulgarian soldiers who died on the mountaintop during the First World War. The view from the mountain is fascinating: Thermaikos Gulf, the peak of Mt. Olympos, and lake Vegoritida. Around the area of Kaimaktsalan, there are more attractions waiting to be discovered. The hot springs of the Pozar Thermal Baths where you can relax in the healing waters known for their therapeutic properties is just a stone throw’s from the ski center. Spa lovers hold them high in their preferences. The city of Edessa, famous for its spectacular waterfalls and the numerous waterways, will refresh your mind and body too. If you love atmospheric villages, physical and mental well-being and some of the most epic mountain scenery in northern Greece, you’ll love all the things to do in Voras.
Useful Info
Municipality of Edessa
Area: 611.212 km2 Population:18,229 Website: https://www.dimosedessas.gov.gr/ Email: https://www.dimosedessas.gov.gr/form/contact-form Tel: +30 2381350780
Kaimaktsalan Ski Center
Website: https://kaimaktsalan.gr/ Email: voras-ski@hppc.gr Tel: +30 2381032000 Distances: Edessa 35km – Thessaloniki 128 km – Athens 580 km
3. Seli (Imathia, Central Macedonia)
Just 20 km from Veria, an ancient town mentioned by historian Thucydides and now a popular winter destination that is bursting with Greek history, culture and traditions, the village of Seli (or Kato Vermio) is home to the first organized ski resort of Greece. The altitude of the village is 1400-1550 meters, making it, probably, the highest populated village in Greece. At an altitude stretching from 1,530 to 1,890 m, the pioneering National Ski Center of Seli has been in operation since 1934, the year the first Pan-Hellenic ski races were organized. In the 1980s it hosted the Cross-Country skiing races of city athletes from non-Alpine countries. It features 18 downhill ski slopes including 2 Lang-Lauf slopes, with the approval by the International Federation of Skiing (FIS). Other facilities include: a special park for snowboarders, 11 lifts, ski schools, playgrounds, shops for ski and snowboard equipment rentals, a health center (fully medically and pharmaceutically equipped), a chalet at the peak of the Ski Center, cafés and restaurants for rustic dining. The E4 European long distance path passes through there and it has many hiking trails. The excellent snow conditions, the amazing sunshine and low humidity bring joy and pleasure to visitors who flock to the resort every winter.
During your stay in Seli or Veroia you can also visit the surrounding area. There are places of special natural beauty such as the artificial lakes along the river Aliakmonas, as well as an impressive selection of cultural attractions. The archaeological site of Aigai ( modern name Vergina), the first capital of the kingdom of Macedonia, lies just 12 km south-east of Veroia. Excavations here have revealed that Philip II of Macedon, having conquered nearly all of classical Greece, transformed the ancient city, revolutionized its political culture, turned it into a symbol of power and ambition, paving the way for his son Alexander the Great and the expansion of the Hellenistic world. The most important remains are the monumental palace, and the royal tombs of Philip II, Euridice’s (mother of Philip II) and Alexander’s IV (grandson of Philip II). Back to Veroia, no visit to the city is complete without stopping off in the picturesque neighborhoods of Kyriotissa and Barbouta, the Apostle Paul’s Tribune (Altar) and the impressive Byzantine churches. Before leaving, make sure you stock up on “revani“, the traditional syrupy cake.
Useful Info
Municipality of Veroia
Area: 796.5 km2 Population: 62,064 Density: 130/km2 Website: www.veria.gr Email: dimosverias@veria.gr Tel: +30 2331350500
National Ski Center of Seli
Website: https://seli-ski.gr/ Email: info@seli-ski.gr Tel: +30 23310 49226 Distances: Veria 20 km – Thessaloniki 95 km – Athens 432 km
Here you can find selected accommodation around the ski resorts’ areas
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4. Naousa (Imathia, Central Macedonia)
Built at the foot of Mt Vermio, the historic Macedonian town of Naousa, a dramatic scene during the Greek War of Independence in Central Macedonia, is blessed by nature. Surrounded by orchards producing peaches, apples, cherries and home to celebrated vineyards where the highly prized Xinomavro wine is produced, Naousa attracts visitors thanks to its great history, incomparable natural beauty and hospitality. The river Arapitsa crosses the town and supplies water while the mountain offers oxygen and fresh air. Only 2km from the center of Naoussa, the idyllic Agios Nikolaos Park is standing out with its linden and oak trees, streams, lake and wooden bridges, as a popular recreational and area for both residents and visitors. Naoussa’s Municipal Park, is another great retreat graced by a poignant monument celebrating heroic Naoussa women.
Winter sports enthusiasts head up to the 3-5 Pigadia ski resort. Located at an altitude of 1,430-2,005 meters, the premier ski center is equipped with a snowmaking system and caters to skiers of all levels. It features 6 slopes and 6 lifts (including a baby lift). There is also rental shop for equipment requirements, a ski and snowboard school, a vibrant lift bar and a cozy chalet where you can enjoy a cold or hot drink or snack and admire the stunning panoramic views of the surrounding mountains. For those who enjoy motorized activities, they can embark on a thrilling snowmobile ride along scenic, snow-covered trails. On the slopes of Naoussa you can also visit historical places like the school of Aristotle in Mieza, the place where the ancient philosopher Aristotle taught Alexander the Great. The impressive Macedonian tombs located nearby with some of the finest examples of Hellenistic painting are definitely worth seeing.
Two of them have similarities to the tomb of Philip II in Vergina.
From food for thought, now food for stomach: Try“mantza” a traditional local dish of mixed vegetables -peppers, eggplants, potatoes, tomatoes, and zucchinis, pan-fried in olive oil. “Fasoulondavas” is another delicious dish based on giant beans and “keftedes me armi” (meatballs with brine) is a meat-lover’s favorite. Naousa is a year-round destination that offers gorgeous surroundings – even more so in the winter, when majestic white snow blankets Mt. Vermio.
Useful info
Municipality of Naousa
Area: 425.5 km2 Population: 21,152 Website: https://www.naoussa.gr/ Email: info@naoussa.gr
Tel: +30 3323 50300
3-5 Pigadia ski resort
Website: https://35pigadia.com/en Email: info@35pigadia.com Tel: +30 23321 02025 Distances: Naousa 17 km – Thessaloniki 109 km – Athens 546 km
5. Vlachochoria (Grevena, Western Macedonia)
Perched on the slopes of the Pindus mountain range, between verdant forests, crystal clear streams, and rivers are the “Vlach villages”, namely Samarina (the best-known Vlach village in the entire Balkan peninsula), Perivoli, Smixi, Krania and Avdella. All of them are places with breathtaking natural landscapes. The Vlachs, a group of Greeks who speak a Romance language called “Vlachika,” or Aromanian, have their own distinct culture and traditions within Greece. Smixi, on the Vasilitsa mountain slopes, at an altitude of 1,220 metres, is the small charming village situated closest to the Vasilitsa ski center.
Standing at 2113 m in the heart of the Pindos Mountains, Vasilitsa Ski Center is often depicted as one of the best snowboard resorts in southern Europe. Snowboarders adore it as the first ever jump contest was organised here and the first halfpipe was constructed here. Dating back to 1979, when the first lift was built, Vasilitsa (literally ‘little queen’) today features 18 slopes with different difficulty levels (two of the slopes have been classified by the F.I.S. as Olympic standard) and 7 lifts. The quality and quantity of snowfall allow for many off-piste routes. Surrounded by black pine tree forests, the ski center boasts a a snowboard track, ski schools, ski and snowboard equipment rentals, two daytime chalets and a guesthouse. The view of the top of ski center is unparalleled. You can see the mountains Smolikas, Olympus, Grammos and Tymfi.
In the nearby villages, there are numerous lovely hotels, guesthouses and rooms to let as well as traditional taverns serving local delicious dishes. During the warmer months, the resort’s mountain bike park opens and visitors can enjoy some downhill bike races and activities. Nearby attractions include Pindos National Park home to diverse flora and fauna, Vikos Gorge, one of the deepest canyons in the world and Tymfi Dragon Lake. Grevena, the town of forests, rivers, creeks, and mushrooms is also a pole of attraction for nature lovers with winter transforming it into a top-tier destination.
Useful Info
Municipality of Grevena
Area: 1,859.9 km2 Population: 25,905 Website: https://www.dimosgrevenon.gr/ Email: dimarxos@dimosgrevenon.gr Tel: +30 24623 50830
National Ski Center of Vasilitsa
Website: https://vasilitsa.com/ Email: exkb@vasilitsa.com Tel (mobile): +30 698 3377130 Distances: Grevena: 45 km – Athens 531 km – Thessaloniki 213 km
6. Vigla-Pisoderi (Florina, Western Macedonia)
The mountain picture-perfect town of Florina is a well developed tourist spot, attracting many winter visitors. Built in a gorge and traversed by a river, Florina is known for its traditional architecture, beautiful views and wide range of options for wintertime fun. Only 18 kilometers west of Florina and surrounded by a landscape of superb natural beauty at the junction of the Varnuda Mountains of Verni, at an altitude of 1,650-2,000 meters, Vigla Pisoderi Ski Resort awaits winter sports enthusiasts. Since its first sliding lift was installed in 1967, it is one of the oldest ski resorts in operation in Greece.
Today, ten slopes can cater to all categories of skiers and snowboarders. Pisoderi 2 that’s 2,500 m long and 50 m wide, was added to the resort last year.
The ski center has four lifts, a ski school, a shop for ski and snowboard equipment rentals, two chalets with restaurant and cafeteria. In the ski center you will also find the Shelter of Vigla, which belongs to Alpine & Ski Club of Florina and can accommodate skiers & climbers in a traditional environment with modern amenities. From the peak of the slopes the view to the Prespa Lakes is magnificent. Being the only ski resort located next to a highway, therefore the access remains open and safe for the visitors throughout the winter, Vigla is one of the most popular ones in northern Greece.
The area is home to an impressive selection of attractions. The Prespa National Park (PNP), consisting of the lakes, Megali and Mikri Prespa, a wetland of international importance, the enchanting preserved traditional settlement Nymfaio at an altitude of 1,350 famous for the “Arcturos Environmental Centre”, Amyntaio, the country’s northernmost vineyard with its famous red wines, will cast a spell on you. Choose Florina for your winter holidays, enjoy the fascinating possibilities that open up before you and don’t forget to taste the delicious local products: Florina red peppers (D.P.O), Prespes giant beans, mountain tea, traditional sweet preserves, bukovo (dried chilli flakes) perfect for the cold!
Useful Info
Municipality of Florina
Area: 819.7 km2 Population: 32,881 Website: https://cityoflorina.gr/ Email: mayor-office@cityoflorina.gr Tel: +30 2385 351010
Vigla Ski Center
Website: https://vigla-ski.com/ Email: info@vigla-ski.com Tel: +30 23850 45800-1 Distances: Florina 19 km – Thessaloniki 178 km – Athens 555 km
7. Vitsi (Kastoria, Western Macedonia)
Built amphitheatrically on a narrow peninsula, the western Macedonian city of Kastoria is regarded by the Greeks as one of the most picturesque ones in the country. With its wonderful Orestiada lake landscape, well-preserved aristocratic mansions, Byzantine churches and tons of beautiful sights, the town famous for its involvement in the fur industry is charming throughout the year, especially in the winter when you can walk along the frozen Orestiada lake. At a distance of only 22 km from Kastoria, on Vitsi top of Verno mountain and at an altitude of 1610 m., the Vitsi ski centre is one of the smallest ski centres in Greece with slopes that fade in a dense beech forest. It is operating since 1985 and is run by Alpine & Ski Club of Kastoria.
The ski center features 5 slopes (the central one is divided in two, so that half its width is used by skiers, while the remaining half by snowboarders) and 3 lifts. The winter sports area is situated between the elevations of 1,610 and 1,875 m. There is a snow bar next to baby-lifts, a ski and snowboard school, a wooden two-storey chalet with a café and a restaurant and a ski and snowboard equipment rental shop. The resort is known for offering a magnificent view of lake Orestiada, designated as a protected Natura 2000 area due to the abundant presence of rare bird and fish species.
If skiing doesn’t tickle your fancy, then an excursion to Vitsi Ski Center can be enriched by visits to the Dragon’s Cave which includes 7 underground lakes, 10 halls, and 5 passages and a large number and variety of stalactites and stalagmites. In Dispilio, a reconstructed site of what was an ancient lakeside village, estimated at 5,500 years b.c. , is also worth exploring. Lakes Chimaditida & Zazari, home to dozens of wildlife species ate another suggestion. As for souvenirs, you should not miss local delicious products such as Kastoria feta cheese (D.P.O.), and apples (P.G.I).
Useful Info
Municipality of Kastoria
Area: 736 km2 Population: 35,874 Website: https://kastoria.gov.gr/ Email: protokolo@kastoria.gov.gr Tel: +30 2467 351100
Vitsi Ski Center
Website: https://sxokast.blogspot.com/ Email: kastoria.ski@gmail.com
Distances: Kastoria 23 km – Thessaloniki 217 km – Athens 591 km
8. Elatohori (Pieria, Central Macedonia)
Located in the eastern Pieria Mountains, one of the most densely forested mountain ranges in Greece, the picturesque and hospitable village of Elatohori Built at an altitude of 780 metres, is a perfect winter getaway in the Central Macedonia region.
Consisting of two different settlements – the old (a bit higher up in the mountain) and the new one, Elatohori enchants visitors who appreciate its landscape of alpine beauty. Just 8 km away from Elatochori, at an altitude of 1450 m. Elatohori Ski center with its striking views of Mount Olympus and Aliakmonas River, offers some of the best skiing in Greece. Since it officially opened in 2001, it is one of the newest ski resorts in the country.
The ski center boasts 10 slopes of 13,5 km total length (including one snowboard slope and one slope for sledges) with altitude differences and varying degrees of difficulty. The ski center features ski and snowboard equipment sale & rental shops, a ski school with experienced teachers, and a 600m2 chalet, which stands out for its modern aesthetics and harmonizes with the surroundings. There is also organized practice of first aid. Instead of operating only during the winter months for snow sports, Elatochori Ski Centre organises climbing and mountaineering hiking activities, 4×4 drives, cycling races throughout the year.
Other attractions of exceptional natural beauty of the area include the Instagrammable Sotiri Rema waterfall and the secret waterfall of Kremasto. Mt Olympus, the home of the ancient Greek Gods, Dion and its archeological site where Alexander the Great made his sacrifices before going off to conquer the East, the picturesqque town of Litochoro and of course Katerini, the capital of Pieria regional unit should not be missing from your list.
Useful Info
Municipality of Katerini
Area: 681,863 km2 Population: 80,700 Website: http://www.katerini.gr Email: info@katerini.gr Tel: +30 2351045802
Elatohori ski center
Website: www.elatohori-ski.gr Tel:+30 23510 82994 Distances: Katerini 36 km Thessaloniki 105 km Athens 474 km
9. Lailias (Serres, Central Macedonia)
If you are looking for rich natural environment, cultural heritage, and culinary tradition, take a winter break in the city of Serres and its nearby destinations. Mountains, charming little villages, rivers and lakes and mouthwatering food (bougatsa, akanes, buffalo meat specialties) will intrigue you. Located at an altitude of 1,600 meters on the north side of the Vrontous mountain range, in the heart of a big forest with firs and beech trees, the ski center of Lailias is a popular spot with locals and visitors from all over the country.
It was established in 1978 by the Hellenic Alpine Club of Serres and since then is constantly operated. Famous for its Lang-Lauf slope, authorized by the International Ski Federation (FIS), the small ski center is satisfying both experienced skiers as well as beginners. It features 2 slopes, 2 lifts and a babylift. Despite the mountain’s medium altitude, its north orientation helps snow to be preserved for many months, so the ski season is long, lasting from late November to mid March. There is a ski school for beginners, ski equipment rentals and a nice chalet with a restaurant, a canteen and dormitories, as well as a First Aid Station.
Even if you are not a winter sports enthusiast, the Lailias forest, with rare Greek flora & fauna, steep ravines, cliffs, hiking trails (international hiking runs E4 & E6 passing through there), is ideal for tourism all year round. The area is characterized by its developed tourist infrastructure with hotels, restaurants and taverns catering to all tastes. Make sure you don’t miss out on any of the Serres regional unit must-see attractions, like the important archaeological site of Amfipoli, Lake Kerkini, Alistrati Cave Sidirokastro Thermal Baths, the15-kilometer Aggitis Gorge, the picturesque Timiou Prodromou Monastery.
Useful Info
Municipality of Serres
Area: 600.5 km2 Population: 76,817 Website: https://www.serres.gr/ Email: dserron@serres.gr Tel: +30 23210 83600
Lailias Ski Center
Website: https://www.facebook.com/LailiasSkiResort Email: eos.serron@hotmail.com Distances: Serres 28 km- Thessaloniki 110 km – Athens 660 km
10. Falakro (Drama, Eastern Macedonia & Thrace)
Built at the foot of Falakro Mt (2,232m), the highest mountain of Eastern Macedonia and Thrace and unique in beauty and biodiversity, Drama is a hospitable city unaffected by massive tourism. Known for its green areas, abundant water sources, picturesque neighborhoods, outstanding wineries, and Greece’s leading International Short Film Festival, Drama wins visitors. A land of dense forests, natural springs, valleys, mountains and rivers, it’s love at first sight. A little above the picturesque village of Volakas with its traditional Macedonian architecture, you will find the Ski Centre of Falakro.
Founded in 1980 by the Alpine Club of Drama, the ski resort is a great winter attraction in the region. It boasts 7 slopes for all ski levels, 2 lifts, ski and snowboard equipment rental shops, ski and snowboard schools, chalet, cafés-bars. Weather permitting, you can enjoy the wonderful panoramic views of the Gorge of the Towers, the plain of Drama, Pangaeo mountain, Thassos island, the Aegean sea, and even Mount Olympus. The highlight of the ski center is “Ηionotrypa”, a deep cave in the snow; the base of the cave is covered with glaciers. Falakro is also suitable for other activities, such as mountaineering, hiking, paragliding, climbing mountain bike riding, off road courses with jeeps. Before you leave the region, source some famous potatoes from Kato Nevrokopi, mountain tea, honey and walnuts from local producers.
Useful Info
Municipality of Drama
Area: 840.1 km2 Population: 58,944 Website: https://dimos-dramas.gr/en/ Email: info@dimosdramas.gr
Tel: +30 2521350600
Falakro Ski Center
Website: https://www.falakro.gr/ Email: info@falakro.gr Tel (mobile): +30 6959502790 Distances: Drama 46 km – Thessaloniki 165 km – Athens 675 km
To read about more Greek destinations with ski resorts in Central and Southern Greece click Here
