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While Greece is known across the world for its idyllic islands and sun-kissed beaches it is possible to enjoy a great winter holiday too. The country enjoys up to 300 days of sunshine a year and though temperatures may be colder than usual, it’s still warmer than many other European destinations. Quaint mountain villages, glorious natural landscapes, modern ski centers, promise to steal a piece from the heart of every visitor. Below we’ve put together a list of top 7 winter destinations which will offer you unforgettable experiences against an all-white setting.
1. Arahova (Boeotia, Central Greece)
Retaining its traditional architectural style, Arahova, with its breathtaking mountainous landscape and cosmopolitan ambience, is one of the most popular winter destinations in Greece, famous for its ski center on Mount Parnassos (2,260 metres). Arahova is also the favorite mountain resort of Athenians (since it is just 180 km from the Greek capital), a gathering place for the rich and famous and has a reputation for its busy nightlife, unique gastronomic treasures and charming accommodation options.
The colorful town boasts cobbled streets, beautiful stone houses, luxurious hotels, cozy guesthouses, taverns, restaurants, cafes, bars, clubs and shops where you can find its renowned woven textiles, authentic flokati (woven wool rugs), woodwork and delicious local products like formaella D.P.O. cheese, handmade pasta, honey and dry wines.
Snow enthusiasts can enjoy skiing at Parnassos Ski Center which operated for the first time in 1976 and has excellent facilities. It features two peaks, Kellaria (1750 m) and Fterolakas (1950 m). The centre has 17 lifts, 23 slopes, 7 ski trails and 7 connecting paths, with a total length of 34 km. Four of the slopes have been certified by the International Ski Federation for the organization of international ski races. For adrenaline addicts, there are several of off-piste options as well as a Snow-Funpark at Kellaria (SnowPark Rules). There are also two wonderful chalets ski and snowboard schools and special stores where you can rent equipment making it easier to travel light.
For nature lovers, Parnassus National Park, the oldest National Park in Greece, has a wide variety of untouched landscapes and native animal and plant life. Covering about 36,000 acres it provides ample opportunity for climbing and hiking. If you enjoy archaeological tourism, Arahova is also a good base for visiting the site of Delphi (just 12 km away), an ancient religious sanctuary dedicated to the Greek god Apollo and the center of the world (omphalos) in the eyes of the ancient Greeks. Nearby Galaxidi (located just 10 kilometers from Delphi) is a mesmerizing seaside town-vastly famous for its nautical legacy- worth visiting. The 11th-century Monastery of Osios Loukas, considered the epitome of Byzantine architecture, is another great attraction near Arahova, just 30 km away, located in the area of Distomo. Arachova is the queen of winter in Central Greece but a holiday there will amaze and entertain you all year-round.
Useful Info
Municipality Distomo-Arachova-Antikyra
Area: 294.05 km2 Population: 8,188 Density: 20/km2
Website: https://www.daa.gov.gr/ Email: info@daa.gov.gr Tel: +30 22673 50100
Parnassos Ski Center
Website: https://parnassos-ski.gr/ Tel: +30 22340 22700 Distances: Athens 180 km – Thessaloniki 365 km – Patra 160 km
2. Kalavrita (Achaia, Western Greece)
On the slopes of Mount Helmos (2340 m) on the right bank of the Vouraikos River, the historic town of Kalavrita is the perfect getaway during the cold months of the year. Situated 77 km. away from the port city of Patras and built at an altitude of 756m, the town is surrounded by high mountainsides and greenery that consists of cypress, fir, and plane trees. Kalavrita is widely known for its moving historical past: in 1943, the German occupying troops murdered all male locals above the age of 14 and burned down the town. Today Kalavrita is drawing not only history aficionados but also thrill-seekers who want to explore its striking natural beauty scenery, scenic rack railway and its very well organized ski resort. The beautiful town with its impressive stone-built houses, small squares, charming alleys, comfortable accommodation, picturesque cafés, exceptional restaurants and shops selling traditional products like the famed Kalavryta feta (a PDO product), beans, rose sugar preserves and aromatic plants, gathered from the mountains, will cover every taste and need.
The modern ski resort is just 15km from the center of Kalavrita. The base of the ski resort is situated at 1700m above sea level and the highest point, known as Neraidorachi, is at 2340m. It features 13 slopes with varying difficulty with a total length of 25km, 8 ski lifts and particular areas devoted to snowboarding and extreme sports. There are stores for ski and snowboard equipment for rental as well skiing and snowboarding schools, a chalet and a cantina with hot and cold drinks, along a wide range of snacks. Even if you are not into skiing, the area surrounding Kalavrita offers a plethora of options for a fascinating break.
Within just a 5km distance from the town, is the Agia Lavra Monastery, where the Greek Revolution of 1821 was declared. The Holy Monastery of Mega Spileo, the oldest Greek Orthodox monastery is another key attraction about 10 km northeast of Kalavrita, The Cave of the Lakes (thirteen lakes inside the cave) approximately 17 km from Kalavrita and the Chelmos-Vouraikos National Park which covers 544 square kilometers and includes four Natura 2000 areas, will leave you thrilled. Don’t miss getting onboard “Odontotos” the rack railway service (inaugurated in 1896) which covers the 22km Kalavrita – Diakopto route. The ride through canyons, mountains, and forests will excite you. Kalavrita is the ideal winter destination but there is a multitude of activities for you throughout the year.
Useful Info
Municipality of Kalavrita
Area: 1,058.2 km2 Population: 11,045 Density: 11/km2
Website: http://www.kalavrita.gr/ Email: dimos@kalavrita.gr Tel: +30 2692360400
Kalavrita Ski Resort
Website: https://kalavritaski.gr/en/ Tel: +30 26920 24451 Email: info@kalavritaski.gr Distances: Athens 204 km – Thessaloniki 553 km – Patras 102 km
Here you can find selected accommodation around the ski resorts’ areas
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3. Karpenisi (Evrytania, Central Greece)
Situated in the fertile valley of the river Karpenisiotis, and surrounded by fir trees at an altitude of 960 meters, Karpenisi is an ideal destination of wintry tourism and not only. Called Switzerland of Greece for the resemblance with the mountainous country and its beauty, Karpenisi is a vibrant town with an alpine-village feel to it that stays lively all year round.
Dense forested areas, merging rivers, lakes, cascading waterfalls, thrilling hiking paths and climbing routes, postcard-ready villages, and a ski resort are just some of the gems of the area.
But Karpenisi’s allure is also historical as during the Greek War of Independence in 1821, many historical battles took place. Well-preserved buildings, arched bridges, Byzantine churches, impressive monasteries like the impressive Panagia Prousiotissa are must-see for people who love history, culture and nature.
The town itself has it all: monuments, high-end hotels, chalet-style lodgings, stylish cafes, traditional taverns, elegant boutiques and tasteful shops selling everything you need, from ski equipment to delicious local products. You shouldn’t leave Karpenisi without trying Evrytania country sausages, “tsalafouti” cheese, “Akrokolion” (proscuitto), “mouro” the local tsipouro made of mulberry distillate.
Just 12 km from the town is Velouchi ski centre. At an altitude of 1840 metres, it is one of the oldest ski resorts in the country, operated by private entities since 1974. The area is ideal as it contains sufficient snow quantities for quite a long time. It features 18 ski slopes, which include all levels of difficulty (4 of them are off piste and 2 for snowboard), 5 lifts, a chalet, a ski school, a shop which rents and sells ski equipment, a cafe and a bar. There is also the possibility of staying in the mountain shelter. Apart from winter sports, in Karpenisi you can enjoy hiking, rafting, canoeing, cycling, horse riding, parapenting. Krikellopotamos, Tavropos and Trikeriotis rivers, Kremaston Lake, the ravine of Panta Vrechei (Always Raining) with the fairytale waterfalls, the Black Cave, all prove that the heart of Greek nature beats in Karpenisi 365 days a year.
Useful Info
Municipality of Karpenisi
Area: 948.6 km2 Population: 13,105 Density: 14/km2
Website: https://www.karpenissi.gr/ Email: contact@karpenissi.gr Tel: +30 22373 50000
Velouchi Ski Resort
Website: https://www.velouchi4mount.com/ Email: info@velouchi4mount.com Tel (mobile): +30 6948709301 Distances: Athens 298 km – Thessaloniki 310 km – Patras 165 km
4. Mainalo Mt. (Arcadia, Peloponnese)
In the heart of the Peloponnese, in Arcadia, Mainalo is the tallest mountain in the Menalon highlands. Traditionally associated with the cult of Pan, the god of forests, pastures, flocks, and shepherds, the fir-tree-covered Mount Mainalo is home to the closest ski resort to Athens, open since 1965. The ski centre built on Ostrakina plateau at an altitude of 1600m features 7 ski slopes (for beginners, advanced skiers and experts), many freeride paths for perfect powder ski days, 3 lifts, and chalet with which has a stunning view to the impressive mountain. There is also a ski school, a ski equipment rental shop and a guesthouse, a restaurant, and cafes. For ten years, from 1968 to 1978, the ski center was the home of the championship of Southern Greece.
The activities around the ski center are not limited to the months when the snow falls when you can enjoy this unique natural landscape in its snowy majesty. Outdoor activities such as mountain biking, paragliding, hiking, trekking, rafting and kayaking can be enjoyed during warmer periods. The spectacular gorge of Lousios, the valley of Mylaontas River, the southeastern Mountains of Gortyna area, are all places of outstanding natural beauty you can explore.
The area is also famed for the 75km Menalon Trail, the first hiking trail in Greece to receive the European Leading Quality Trails certification. Traditional stone inhabited villages, such as Vytina, Dimitsana, Levidi, Kapsia and Stemnitsa, watermills, stone bridges, centuries-old monasteries, archaeological sites, and of course the city of Tripoli, Arcadia’s capital which played an important role in the Greek War of Independence, are also places that you should not miss out on.
It goes without saying that there are plenty of traditional guesthouses and hotels to stay. As for culinary rewards, don’t forget to savour “tsakonikes melitzanes” (baked aubergines) with PDO feta from Vytina, graviera cheese from Tripoli, fir tree honey and PDO-protected apples “Delicious Pilafa.”
Useful Info
Municipality of Tripoli
Area: 1,475.8 km2 Population: 30,912 Website: https://www.tripolis.gr/ Email: dimos@tripolis.gr
Tel: +30 2713600402
Mainalo Ski Center
Website: https://www.mainaloski.gr Email: info@mainaloski.gr Tel (mobile): +30 698.5063909 Distances: Tripoli 30 km- Athens 162 km – Thessaloniki 664 km
5. Trikala Korinthias (Corinthia, Peloponnese)
One of the oldest villages of Mt. Killini (also known as Ziria), Trikala Korinthias is the most popular destination of mountainous Korinthia. Offering superb panoramic views of the surrounding mountains and the Gulf of Corinth, the scenic large village, spreads throughout consecutive districts: Ano (Upper), Mesaia (Middle) and the Kato (Lower) Trikala Korinthias. All three are truly picturesque, with stone houses and amazing nature. Just 10 km from Trikala Korinthias, standing at an elevation of 1500 metres is located the Ziria Athletic Ski Resort, one of the newest ski centers in the country. Its operation began in 2007 and is ideal for families with children and beginners. It features a beginners’ slope with a baby lift. For the more experienced skiers there is another slope and a platter lift. Expert instructors are also available. At the chalet you can sit and relax, drink a coffee or hot chocolate while enjoying the great view.
For those who like nature but not skiing in the mountains there is a plethora of other options in the area: Visit lake Doxa which is surrounded by fir trees and is one of the most mountainous lakes in Greece (1.480m altitude). Lake Stymphalia, where according to Greek mythology took place the 6th labor of Hercules should also be on top of your list. Hike through the marked route ‘Arhaio Misseon’, walk down the valley of “Flabouritsa”. When you get hungry, after all those activities, try exceptional local food: “kleftiko” (with veal), “trahanopita” (pie with frumenty), Corithian raisin, almond pie with local fruit conserves. What’s amazing about this area is that on the one hand, you have the gorgeous mountains and on the other, the deep blue sea. The beach town of Xylokastro is an ideal base for your winter and summer escapes.
Useful Info
Municipality of Xylokastro-Evrostini
Area: 411.7 km2 Population: 17,365 Website: https://www.xylokastro-evrostini.gov.gr/ Email: info@xylokastro.gov.gr Tel: +30 2743360200
Ziria Ski Center
Website: https://www.ziriaski.gr/ Tel (mobile): +306941550983
Distances: Athens 155 km – Thessaloniki 580 km – Patra 129 km
6. Pertouli (Trikala, Thessaly)
Situated at an altitude of 1,150 metres on the central part of the Pindos mountain range, the alpine village of Pertouli is a major attraction of the region of Thessaly, not to mention a prime choice for winter getaways for Greeks from all over the country. Built in an amphitheater shape among a well preserved fir forest, murmuring springs and lush vegetation, Pertouli stands out for its authentic atmosphere, picturesque stone houses with red or stone roofs, its ski resort and fantastic views of the surrounded mountains. Covering an area of 8,154 acres, its fir forest is characterized as a university forest, and has been under the jurisdiction of the Aristotle University of Thessaloniki since 1934.
The ski center, in operation since 1985, is located at Pertouliotika Livadia (grasslands of Pertouli) at 1300m altitude. There are three slopes and three lifts available for skiers (including a baby lift for beginners). It is a favorite destination for families with young children due to the smoothness of the slopes. The center features a ski learning school, shops for equipment rentals and chalets. It is also served by plenty of hotels, guesthouses and restaurants which are located not only in Pertouli but also in other nearby beautiful villages such as Elati and Pyli. The later is famed for its arched stone bridge built in 1514, a gateway to Trikala’s mountain region for centuries.
Elati, at an altitude of 950m, is the largest mountainous village in the area and its tourist infrastructure is fully-equipped for all four seasons. Throughout the year you can go mountain climbing, rock climbing, hiking, mountain biking, cycling, horseback riding, try archery or other mountain related sports.
Pertouli is also close to many other attractions, including the iconic Porta Panagia church, the waterfalls of Palaiokarya and the medieval monastery of St Bessarion.
The area is also also famed for its mouthwatering gastronomy: If you are a meat lover, make sure you try top local specialties like wild boar hunting and pork knuckle. Sun-dried frumenty with goat’s milk, jams, honey and medicinal herbs are products you should definitely add to your buys before leaving.
You can also try skiing at Karamanoli’s small resort in the area of Karditsa’s Agrafa (1 lift, 1 slope).
Useful Info
Municipality of Pyli
Area: 748.9 km2 Population: 20,000 Website: https://dimospylis.gr/ Email: dpilis@otenet.gr Tel: +30 2434 350 100
Pertouli Ski Center
Website: https://www.facebook.com/pertouli.gr/ Tel: +30 2434 350100 Distances: Athens 375 km – Thessaloniki 256 km
7. Mt. Pelion (Magnesia, Thessaly)
Considered one of the most beautiful mountains in Greece, Pelion (1500m altitude), the favorite summer resort of the 12 Olympian Gods, forms a natural borderline between Magnesia and the Aegean Sea. Makrinitsa, Portaria, Milies, Vizitsa, Tsagarada and Chania, are among the most beautiful villages in Pelion. They are made up of traditional little houses with grey stone roofs, cobblestoned alleys, hospitable guesthouses, as well as taverns that serve exceptional dishes and stores selling delicious local products and souvenirs. Try “spetsofai”, a spicy sausage in red sauce and “mezedes” in the amazing seaside town of Volos, a variety of appetizers that go perfectly with a distillate drink called tsipouro.
Thanks to its high elevation, Pelion receives enough snow to have skiing facilities. In Chania, a ski center offers snow-lovers the joy of skiing and snowboarding. Founded in 1967 by the Hellenic Mountaineering Association, it features seven slopes (with different levels of difficulty) and five lifts of which one is double-seated, two are single-seated, and there are two rail lifts. The skiers who use the slopes are offered breathtaking views of the endless blue of the Aegean Sea on one side and the peaceful Pagasitikos gulf on the other. This majestic combination is undoubtedly the highlight of the ski center. There is a ski school here for beginners.
The center’s proximity to the sea offers the visitor the unique advantage of enjoying both mountain and water sports all year round when visiting Mount Pelion. The visitor gains an unforgettable experience whether it’s in winter when everything is snowy-white or in summer when the mountain’s slopes are covered by wild flowers. An abundance of mountain routes and trails are ideal for mountain biking, hiking, adventure trekking, cycling, enduro, cross rides, 4×4 and horseback riding. For swimming, Mylopotamos, Fakistra and Agios Ioannis are some of the most popular Pelion beaches you have to visit.
Useful Info
Municipality of Volos
Area: 385.6 km2 Population: 139,670 Website: https://dimosvolos.gr/ Tel: +30 2421350100
Pelion Ski Center
Website: https://www.facebook.com/PelionSki/ Email: xionodromikopilio@gmail.com Distances: Athens 346 km – Thessaloniki 239 km
To read about more Greek destinations with ski resorts in Northern Greece click here
