PELION
Pelion is the mountain of the mythical centaurs and the summer residence of the 12 gods of ancient Greek mythology, the kingdom of Pileas and his son, Achilles. This should not surprise us, as the mountain combines the green of nature and the blue of the sea.
It raises imposing and verdurous to the north and the east from Volos. The 24 hamlets and the many smaller, picturesque villages, whose houses are built in a unique architectural style, which climb, in some cases, high on the slopes and steep peaks, while in other cases they lie hidden in verdurous gullies, blend so well with the landscape that looking at them from away they appear to have ‘grown’ with the trees.
These villages are true museums of folklore architecture and art. The proud figures of Pelian mansions, the cobbled roads, the squares, stone fountains and arched bridges compose the unique scenery on Mt. Pelion.
And on the other hand, the beautiful beaches with their wild vegetation. The east, rough side of Pelion, overlooking the Aegean Sea, comes to the sea abruptly, creating charming rocky seashores and beautiful bays with sandy beaches. On the other hand, the calm and peaceful coasts on the western side of the mountain, that overlooking the Pagasetic Gulf, are more accessible and centers for maritime activity.
A DESTINATION FOR ALL SEASONS
The modern tourist infrastructure, frequent connection to Volos and short sea shipping to the islands of Sporades, offer the visitor with the opportunity for lovely vacations.
A dense hiking network comprising of trails and cobbled roads, currently under further development, can help you to get to know the secret and unknown to the many locations of exquisite beauty. A unique experience is the trip on the traditional train on Pelion, Moutzouris (Smudged), that runs on coal.
Sports lovers will enjoy visiting the ski center in Agriolefkes, mountain horseback riding and mountain cycling. The visitor in Pelion during the spring can have a unique experience: mountain and sea skiing on the same day. Fishing, water sports, sailing and diving are only some of the activities on offer to the visitor.
Finally, one may also visit the great many villages, admire the old mansions, that stand firm, defying time, kneel in awe at the churches, the chapels and the many monasteries that stand as living testimony of past times, and enjoy the traditional delicacies and warm hospitality of the people of Pelion.