Family Adventure in the Heart of Pelion, Greece

In the Footsteps of Legends

Today was a day of embracing the mythical heart of Pelion. We explored ancient trails and indulged in the local cuisine, creating memories that will forever be etched in our minds. It was a day filled with laughter, exploration, and the kind of connection that only comes from experiencing a new place with family.

Our day began with a delightful breakfast at KRITSA Restaurant in Portaria. The restaurant is nestled in the basement of the Kritsa Hotel, boasting a high-ceilinged room with light colors and an inviting fireplace. Although the weather wasn't ideal for outdoor seating under the plane trees, the cozy interior more than made up for it. I savored the Greek breakfast, a delightful spread that included local honey, fresh yogurt, and homemade bread. Nadia was particularly fond of the *melomakarona* and *kourabiedes*, traditional Christmas cookies that were already filling Pelion with festive cheer. Lukas, ever the coffee aficionado, declared their Greek coffee to be among the best he'd had so far. It was the perfect start to a day of adventure.


Discover authentic Greek flavors at KRITSA Restaurant in Portaria - where tradition meets taste amidst breathtaking mountain views.

After breakfast, we set off to explore the famed Centaurs' Path. The path begins in the charming village of Portaria, and as we walked, I couldn't help but feel a sense of stepping back in time, imagining the mythical creatures that were said to roam these very woods. The crisp December air was invigorating, and the scenery was simply breathtaking. The path wound through lush forests, alongside gently flowing streams, and past small waterfalls, creating a symphony of natural delights. Nadia was captivated by the idea of centaurs, and we spent a good portion of our walk imagining what it would be like to encounter one of these half-human, half-horse creatures. The trail was well-maintained and easy to navigate, making it perfect for a family hike. Even with the winter chill, the shaded path kept us pleasantly cool. We paused at a stone water fountain to refill our reusable water bottles and take in the serene surroundings.


Hike the Centaurs' Path in Volos: Where myth meets nature, offering stunning views and a tranquil escape into Greek legend and lush landscapes.

Sometimes, the most rewarding journeys are those taken on foot, allowing us to truly connect with the land and its stories.

As we continued our hike, I couldn't help but reflect on the importance of these moments with my family. Life in Bielefeld can be so hectic, with work, school, and the general hustle and bustle of daily life. But here, in the heart of Pelion, we were able to slow down, breathe in the fresh air, and simply enjoy each other's company. It's these shared experiences that strengthen our bonds and create lasting memories.

For lunch, we drove to Chorefto, a charming village known for its seaside tavernas, and enjoyed a delightful meal at Dovas Home Cooking. This restaurant is celebrated for its authentic Greek cuisine, using fresh, locally sourced ingredients. The rustic decor and friendly staff made us feel right at home. We started with a *Horiatiki Salata*, the classic Greek salad with tomatoes, cucumbers, feta, and olives, bursting with the flavors of the Mediterranean. I opted for the *Moussaka*, a traditional baked dish with eggplant, potatoes, and ground meat, while Lukas chose the grilled lamb chops, cooked to perfection. Nadia, surprisingly, devoured a plate of *Gemista*, stuffed vegetables with rice and herbs. The food was hearty, flavorful, and felt like a true taste of Greece.


Experience authentic Greek cuisine at Dovas Home Cooking in Chorefto - where fresh ingredients meet traditional recipes.

After our satisfying lunch, we decided to embrace the coastal vibe and headed to Monk Paradise Beach Bar on Agioi Saranta beach. Although it was December, the sun was shining, and the beach still held a certain allure. Monk Paradise is known for its relaxed atmosphere, stunning sea views, and refreshing cocktails. We settled into comfortable sunbeds and ordered a round of drinks. I savored a Paradise Mojito, while Lukas enjoyed a local beer. Nadia, of course, opted for a fruit smoothie. The bar was playing chill music, adding to the laid-back vibe. I could easily imagine spending an entire summer day here, soaking up the sun and enjoying the company of friends and family.


Discover the serene vibes of Monk Paradise Beach Bar in Zagora—where stunning views and refreshing beverages meet.

As the sun began to set, we made our way to SPECIAL DELIGHT restaurant & cocktail bar in Agios Ioannis for dinner. This restaurant is known for its Greek cuisine, friendly staff, and charming atmosphere. We were greeted warmly by the owner, Rania, who made us feel like valued guests. We started with calamari and sardines, both cooked to perfection. For my main course, I chose the filet américain, while Lukas opted for the souvlaki. Nadia, again, surprised us by ordering the falafel. The food was delicious, and the prices were very reasonable. What truly made the evening special was the warm hospitality of Rania, who shared stories about her life and her passion for cooking. It was a reminder of the importance of connecting with locals and learning about their culture.


Experience exceptional Greek cuisine at SPECIAL DELIGHT Restaurant & Cocktail Bar in Agios Ioannis - where every dish tells a story.

The day reminded me of why I started this blog in the first place: to share the beauty and diversity of the world with others, and to inspire them to embrace new experiences. It's about connecting with people, cultures, and landscapes, and finding those moments of joy and wonder that make life so rich. As a cultural mediator, I believe in the power of travel to bridge divides and foster understanding. And as a mother, I want to instill in Nadia a sense of curiosity, empathy, and a love for exploration.

As we drove back to our guesthouse, I couldn't help but feel grateful for this incredible day. Pelion had truly captured our hearts, and I knew that we would be leaving with memories that would last a lifetime. I am already looking forward to tomorrow, where we plan to visit Saint Konstantinos Park and Sycamore of peace square. I am also excited to explore The Shop Of Nature, hoping to find some unique, locally made treasures. I have a feeling that tomorrow will be just as magical as today. And I can't wait to share it all with you.

Before drifting off to sleep, I reflected on the day. We had walked in the footsteps of legends, tasted the flavors of Greece, and connected with the soul of Pelion. It was a day that reminded me of the importance of family, culture, and the simple joys of life. And as I closed my eyes, I knew that this family adventure in the heart of Greece was something we would cherish forever.