Family Adventure in the Heart of Pelion, Greece

Pelion's Embrace: A Day of Serenity and Discovery

Today was a beautiful blend of urban tranquility and rustic charm, as we explored the coastal city of Volos and the traditional village of Makrinitsa. It was a day where the simple pleasures of life – a peaceful park, a historic square, delicious food, and the company of my family – came together to create lasting memories. Nadia was particularly excited about running around in the park, while Lukas enjoyed the stunning views from Makrinitsa. It was a day that reminded me why I love sharing these experiences with my readers, hoping to inspire you to seek out similar moments of joy and connection in your own travels.

Our day began in Volos, where we visited Saint Konstantinos Park. It's funny, even though I grew up in El Fashn, far from any sea, there's something about being near the water that always calms me. Maybe it's the vastness, the constant rhythm of the waves, or perhaps it's simply the fresh, salty air. Whatever it is, Volos' coastal charm immediately put me at ease.

The park itself is a lovely blend of nature and culture. As we strolled along the shaded paths, I couldn't help but notice the vibrant greenery and blooming flowers, a welcome sight in the midst of December. Nadia, of course, was thrilled to have open space to run around, her laughter echoing through the park. Lukas, ever the history enthusiast, was captivated by the historic monuments scattered throughout the park, each telling a story of Volos' rich heritage.

We learned that Saint Konstantinos Park is one of the oldest parks in Volos, transformed from George's Square in the 1920s. It's a recreational haven offering stunning views of the Pagasitic Gulf. The Church of Agios Konstantinos within the park adds to the scenic beauty, and the Papastratos tobacco warehouse building, now part of the University of Thessaly, showcases the blend of history and modernity.


Explore the lush greenery and historic monuments of Saint Konstantinos Park in Volos, a serene retreat for tourists and locals alike.

Sometimes, the most profound experiences are found in the simplest of places.

After our refreshing visit to the park, our stomachs started to rumble, signaling it was time for breakfast. We headed to To Katofli tis Ketis, a local favorite known for its traditional Greek breakfast. I opted for a classic: a hearty omelet with fresh vegetables and feta cheese, while Lukas enjoyed some strong Greek coffee. Nadia, predictably, chose a sweet pastry that disappeared within minutes. It was the perfect way to fuel up for the rest of our day.


Experience authentic Greek cuisine at To Katofli tis Ketis in Katochori—where every dish tells a story.

With our appetites satisfied, we hopped in our rental car and made our way to Makrinitsa, a village perched on the slopes of Mount Pelion. Known as the balcony of Pelion, Makrinitsa offers panoramic views of Volos and the Pagasetic Gulf, and it certainly lived up to its name.

As we drove up the winding roads, the landscape transformed from coastal plains to lush mountain scenery. The air grew crisp and cool, carrying the scent of pine and damp earth. The village itself is a charming collection of stone houses and cobbled streets, a testament to traditional Pelion architecture.

Our first stop was the Sycamore of Peace Square, the heart of Makrinitsa. The square is named for its ancient sycamore tree, which provides ample shade and a tranquil atmosphere for visitors and locals alike. It was a bit chilly, but the sight of the expansive branches was impressive nonetheless. A beautiful marble fountain with fresh mountain water added to the charm.


Experience the heart of Makrinitsa at Sycamore of Peace Square, a picturesque landmark with stunning views and a tranquil atmosphere.

The Sycamore of Peace Square is a historical landmark and a focal point of the community. Makrinitsa has preserved its traditional character, with stone houses and cobbled streets enhancing its authentic feel. The central square serves as a gathering place for various events and festivals throughout the year.

While in Makrinitsa, we popped into The Shop Of Nature. It was a delightful little store filled with natural goods and local products. I picked up some herbal teas and local honey, perfect for warding off any winter colds. Nadia was fascinated by the colorful displays of dried herbs and spices, while Lukas chatted with the shop owner about the benefits of traditional Greek remedies.


Explore organic treasures at The Shop of Nature in Makrinitsa, where local craftsmanship meets stunning mountain views.

For lunch, we decided to try Pagasitikos Restaurant, drawn in by its reputation for authentic Pelion cuisine. We enjoyed a wonderful selection of cuisine including various local specialities. Pagasitikos Taverna offers breakfast, lunch and dinners and is a family run business since 1934.


Discover authentic Greek flavors at Pagasitikos Restaurant in Kala Nera - a must-visit culinary destination overlooking the stunning Pagasetic Gulf.

After a satisfying lunch, we made our way back to Volos, but not before promising ourselves to return to Makrinitsa in the spring, when the flowers are in full bloom and the weather is milder. As we drove, I reflected on the day's experiences, feeling grateful for the opportunity to share these moments with my family and with you, my readers.

For dinner, we chose Armonia Restaurant. It's known for traditional summer dishes. We enjoyed traditional Greek dishes while soaking in the views. Every meal is a celebration of local flavors.


Discover authentic Greek cuisine at Armonia Restaurant in Agios Ioannis, where every meal is a celebration of local flavors and stunning views.

As I sit here writing this, I'm already looking forward to tomorrow's adventures. We'll be exploring the Home of Alexandros Papadiamantis and the Clock Tower. And of course, we'll be sure to sample more of the local cuisine, perhaps with a nightcap at Grooove. Until then, efharisto (thank you) for joining me on this journey through Pelion.

Tomorrow, on our final day, we plan to visit the Home of Alexandros Papadiamantis and the Clock Tower. I'm also hoping we can squeeze in a visit to Grooove for a nightcap before we head back to Germany. It's hard to believe our Pelion adventure is coming to an end, but I know we'll be taking home memories that will last a lifetime.

Thinking of our return to Germany, I realize I forgot to buy sunscreen and a portable phone charger. Now, I need to make sure everything is ready for our departure. Despite these small hiccups, our time in Pelion has been enriching, and I look forward to sharing more of our travels with you all. Until next time!

I also learned that there are many festivals and celebrations that take place in Pelion throughout the year. These range from celebrations for the name days of many of the villages to specially organized musical or theatrical events. These festivals and local events are a wonderful way for visitors to partake in something very special amongst the locals.

Pelion holds numerous treasures for travelers to discover. Each of its scenic villages is a unique example of local architecture and features incredibly lush vegetation, dreamy stone-paved alleys, and beautiful sights. All villages in Pelion maintain their inspiring character through the centuries and are well worth a visit.

Mount Pelion has the richest vegetation in Greece with over 1000 species of plants and herbs of pharmaceutical and medicinal value. According to the legend, the science of medicine was first developed here.

As the day winds down, I am thinking of Lukas and Nadia, so grateful for their company and shared laughter. It warms my heart to see them explore new places and embrace different cultures. It reinforces my belief that travel is more than just visiting new destinations; it's about creating shared memories and strengthening family bonds. And as we prepare for our final day in Pelion, I am filled with anticipation for the new adventures that await us. I can't wait to share those experiences with you all, hoping to inspire you to embark on your own family adventures and discover the beauty of our world together.