Top Things to Do in Pelion

Pelion is a green mountain peninsula on the eastern edge of Thessaly, rising above the city of Volos and running out into the Aegean and the Pagasetic Gulf. Its forests of beech, chestnut and plane trees give it a cool, shaded character that surprises many visitors who expect the dry, sun-bleached Greece of the islands. Stone villages with slate roofs cling to the hillsides, and within a short drive you can go from mountain air to a pebble beach. It is a rewarding place to visit at any time of year, and it works equally well for a slow walking holiday, a family break or a winter trip to the snow.

Explore Makrinitsa and Portaria

Makrinitsa and Portaria are the two best-known villages of the peninsula, and they sit only a short distance apart above Volos. Makrinitsa is famous for its tiered stone houses, narrow cobbled lanes and the broad square with its plane trees and cafés, where you can look down over the city and gulf. Its traditional architecture reflects the wealth that shipping and trade brought to Pelion in earlier centuries, and many of the old mansions have been carefully restored as guesthouses and small hotels.

Portaria is a little higher and feels more spread out, with grand stone mansions set among gardens and a lively central square. Both villages are ideal for an unhurried afternoon: wander the streets, stop for a coffee or a slice of local pie, and take in the views. Walking between the two is also possible along old paths, which is a pleasant way to see the forest up close.

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Walk the Pelion Trails

Pelion is criss-crossed with old mule tracks and paved footpaths linking villages, springs and viewpoints. The routes range from gentle strolls through chestnut woodland to longer days of hiking between the mountain settlements. Several trails are signposted, and local walking clubs keep many of the paths clear. Good footwear is essential, as some sections are steep and can be slippery after rain. Ask at your accommodation about current conditions, as trail maintenance varies from year to year.

Ride the Little Pelion Train

The narrow-gauge Pelion train, often called the little Pelion train, is one of the region's most memorable experiences. Its track winds through tunnels, over bridges and past deep ravines, offering sweeping views of the forest and the sea. The journey is slow and scenic, which is exactly the point. Check locally for current services, as the line runs on a seasonal and sometimes limited timetable, and it is worth booking ahead in busy periods.

Swim at Tsagarada and Mylopotamos Beach

Tsagarada is a charming village on the eastern side of the peninsula, with its own small beach and a relaxed harbour atmosphere. It makes a good base for exploring the coast. Mylopotamos beach, on the Aegean side, is one of the most popular stretches of sand on Pelion, with a wide shoreline and a range of tavernas and cafés along the front. Both are good choices for a swim after a morning in the hills.

Discover Damouchari Cove

Damouchari is a small, picturesque cove framed by steep wooded slopes and a stone-built harbour area. It is one of the prettiest spots on the peninsula and ideal for a quiet swim in clear water. The surrounding rocks and pebbles mean you will want water shoes. Arrive early in summer if you want a relaxed spot, as it can get busy during the high season.

Go Skiing at Chania

Pelion is one of the few places in Greece where you can combine a winter beach morning with an afternoon on the slopes. The ski centre at Chania, on the upper mountain, offers runs for beginners and more confident skiers, and the surrounding forest makes the setting especially attractive. Snow conditions vary from season to season, so check locally before you travel, and consider hiring equipment in the nearby villages or in Volos.

Eat Local Food

Pelion has a strong food tradition built on mountain produce. Look for pies made with local greens and cheese, wild greens, honey, and dishes that use the region's meats and dairy. The tavernas in the villages are often the best places to try them. In Volos, the waterfront and old quarters offer excellent seafood and a more urban dining scene.

Practical Tips

• Getting there: The nearest airport is Volos Nea Anchialos Airport (VOL), which serves the region with seasonal flights. Most visitors arrive through Volos, the main gateway. From Athens or Thessaloniki, you can reach Volos by car or intercity bus.
• Getting around: A well-maintained road network connects the villages and coast, so a car gives you the most flexibility. Some of the smaller eastern coves are reached by local ferries, which run seasonally.
• Timing: Spring and autumn are excellent for walking, summer suits the beaches, and winter is the season for skiing. Check locally for current schedules and conditions.
• Accommodation: Book stone guesthouses in the villages early in peak months, as the best-known properties fill quickly.
• Footwear: Bring sturdy walking shoes for the trails and water shoes for the pebble coves.