Exploring the Natural and Cultural Wonders of Pelion, Greece

A Final Day of Pelion Wonders

As our Pelion adventure draws to a close, I find myself reflecting on the incredible blend of nature, history, and culture we've experienced. Today was all about savoring those last moments, from exploring the heights of Mount Pelion to discovering local treasures. It's hard to believe our time here is already up, but I'm determined to make the most of every minute.

Our final day began with a delightful breakfast at ΑΡΧΟΝΤΙΚΟ ΕΣΤΙΑΤΟΡΙΟ [Archontiko Estiatorio]. The morning air was crisp and carried the scent of pine, invigorating us for the day ahead. Emily, Oliver, and I enjoyed a traditional Greek breakfast, complete with fresh yogurt, local honey, and crusty bread. It was the perfect way to fuel up before heading to the Pelion Ski Centre.


Explore the breathtaking Pelion Ski Centre, a premier ski resort in Greece known for its stunning scenery and family-friendly atmosphere, perfect for winter adventures.
Even though it's August, I was curious to see the Pelion Ski Centre in its summer guise. The drive up was stunning, with panoramic views of the Pagasetic Gulf and the Aegean Sea. I can only imagine how breathtaking it must be covered in snow! In the summer, the Ski Centre transforms into a hub for mountain biking, hiking, and other outdoor activities. We took a leisurely walk around the area, soaking in the views and breathing in the fresh mountain air. Oliver, ever the adventurous one, was already planning a return trip in the winter to try his hand at skiing.

It's not about the destination, but the journey and the memories created along the way.

After our mountain excursion, we descended back into the charming villages of Pelion, making our way to Peritechno in Makrinitsa. This shop, recommended by several locals, promised unique gifts and local treasures. It was indeed a whimsical place, filled with handcrafted items that captured the essence of Pelion. Emily and I spent a happy hour browsing the shelves, while Oliver, surprisingly, found himself engrossed in a collection of vintage maps. We ended up buying a few small souvenirs to remind us of our time here—a hand-painted ceramic plate for Emily, a wooden puzzle for Oliver, and a small worry bead strand for myself.


Explore the enchanting Peritechno in Makrinitsa, where unique gifts and local treasures await in a whimsical setting.
For lunch, we chose Me Mostra, a restaurant in Portaria known for its traditional Pelion cuisine. The atmosphere was cozy and inviting, and the menu featured a range of local specialties. We shared a selection of mezedes, including the famed spetzofai , a hearty sausage and pepper stew, and some delicious grilled octopus. The flavors were rich and authentic, showcasing the best of Pelion's culinary heritage. It was a truly satisfying meal, made even better by the warm hospitality of the staff.


Experience authentic Greek cuisine at Me Mostra in Portaria – where traditional flavors meet breathtaking views.
As the afternoon waned, we decided to take a final stroll through the village of Portaria. The stone-cobbled streets, the traditional mansions, and the vibrant flowers created a picturesque scene. We paused at Melina Mercouri Square, the heart of the village, and watched as locals and tourists mingled, enjoying the last rays of sunlight. It was a perfect moment of tranquility, a reminder of the simple pleasures in life.

Our last dinner in Pelion was at ΑΝΝΑ ΜΑΡΙΑ, a restaurant recommended for its authentic Greek dishes. We sat outside, enjoying the cool evening breeze and the sounds of the village. I opted for the lamb chops, Emily chose the moussaka, and Oliver, predictably, went for the souvlaki. Each dish was cooked to perfection, a testament to the restaurant's commitment to quality and tradition. As we savored our meal, we reminisced about our favorite moments from the trip—the hike to the secret beach, the visit to the monasteries, the delicious meals, and the friendly faces we encountered along the way.


Explore unique gifts and souvenirs at ΑΝΝΑ ΜΑΡΙΑ in Kissos, a treasure trove of Greek culture and charm.
As I reflect on our Pelion adventure, I am filled with a sense of gratitude. This region has exceeded all my expectations, offering a perfect blend of natural beauty, cultural richness, and warm hospitality. It's a place that has captured my heart, and I know I'll be longing to return.

Tomorrow, we begin our journey back home to Halifax. It's always bittersweet to leave a place you've come to love, but I take comfort in knowing that we'll carry the memories of Pelion with us always. As a marine biologist, I'm always drawn to coastal ecosystems, and Pelion's unique combination of mountain and sea has been particularly inspiring. I'm eager to share my experiences with my students and encourage them to explore the wonders of the natural world.

Emily is already planning our next trip, perhaps to the Zagori region in Epirus, known for its stunning mountain landscapes and traditional villages. Oliver, meanwhile, is researching the best ski resorts in Greece, determined to conquer the slopes of Mount Pelion. As for me, I'm content to dream of the day when we can return to this magical corner of the world.

Before I close this chapter, I must admit, I did miss my portable phone charger and sunglasses throughout this trip. A silly oversight, but one that taught me a valuable lesson: always double-check the essentials! However, these minor inconveniences did not overshadow the incredible experiences we shared as a family. I am already anticipating our next adventure, but the memories of Pelion will undoubtedly hold a special place in my heart.

Until next time, keep exploring!

David