Family Adventure in Pelion, Greece

Pelion's Peaks and Evening Retreats

Today was a day of delightful contrasts here in Pelion, a blend of mountain air and cozy village charm. We experienced the unique opportunity to visit a ski center in September, followed by delicious local cuisine and a relaxing evening. It’s amazing how much variety this region offers!

Our morning started with a hearty breakfast at Pelion Plaza Εστιατόριο - Πιτσαρία και Εννοικιαζόμενα Δωμάτια. Maximilian, Clara, and I enjoyed a spread of local pastries, fresh fruit, and strong Greek coffee. Clara was particularly thrilled with the pizza options, a little taste of home away from home. The Pelion Plaza seems to be a popular spot, and I can see why. The rooms looked very inviting, with some offering balconies with views of the Aegean Sea. It seems like a great place to stay for those wanting to be close to the beaches. After breakfast, we packed our essentials and set off for the Pelion Ski Centre.


Experience authentic Greek flavors at Pelion Plaza Restaurant & Pizzeria while enjoying breathtaking views of Agios Ioannis beach.

The drive up to the Pelion Ski Centre was breathtaking. Even though it's September, the air was crisp and cool, a welcome change from the warmer temperatures we've been experiencing closer to the coast. The landscape transformed as we ascended, with lush greenery giving way to rocky terrain and panoramic views. It felt surreal to be visiting a ski center in what is technically the off-season, but I was intrigued to see what it had to offer.

Upon arriving at the Pelion Ski Centre, I was immediately struck by the stunning views. From the top, you can see both the Aegean Sea and the Pagasetic Gulf, a truly unique panorama. While there wasn't any snow, of course, it was easy to imagine the slopes covered in white, bustling with skiers. Clara was fascinated by the ski lifts and kept asking when we could come back to ski. I made a mental note to plan a winter trip in the future. We explored the area, took some photos, and enjoyed the fresh mountain air. It was invigorating to be surrounded by such natural beauty.

Experience unique skiing with breathtaking views of the Pagasetic Gulf and Aegean Sea at Mount Pelion's popular ski resort.

Even though we couldn't ski, the Pelion Ski Centre offered a different kind of charm in the off-season. We hiked around the trails, enjoying the peace and quiet of the mountains. Clara collected colorful leaves and wildflowers, while Maximilian and I simply enjoyed the stunning scenery. It was a wonderful opportunity to connect with nature and appreciate the beauty of Pelion from a different perspective. It’s amazing to think that this area transforms into a winter wonderland, offering a completely different experience depending on the season.

Sometimes, the most memorable travel experiences are the unexpected ones, the moments when you stumble upon a hidden gem or discover a new perspective on a familiar place.

After our mountain adventure, we drove back down to Portaria for lunch at Archontiko Traditional Restaurant. This charming restaurant is located in the center of Portaria, surrounded by shops selling traditional handmade products. The setting was idyllic, with an outdoor area surrounded by trees and plants. We sat at a table overlooking the center of Portaria and enjoyed the view while waiting for our food.


Savor authentic Greek cuisine in Portaria's charming Archontiko Traditional Restaurant, where tradition meets taste.

The food at Archontiko Traditional Restaurant was absolutely delicious. We started with some traditional Greek appetizers, such as tzatziki and dolmades. For our main courses, I ordered the moussaka, Maximilian had the lamb chops, and Clara opted for the souvlaki. Everything was cooked to perfection, and the flavors were authentic and satisfying. Clara especially loved the souvlaki and declared it the best she'd ever had. Maximilian and I shared a bottle of local wine, which complemented the meal perfectly. The service was friendly and attentive, making us feel right at home.

As we savored our lunch, I couldn't help but reflect on how much we've enjoyed the local cuisine during our time in Pelion. From the fresh seafood to the hearty meat dishes, every meal has been a celebration of Greek flavors and traditions. I've even started to think about taking a cooking class to learn how to recreate some of these dishes back home in Dresden. Perhaps I could even try my hand at making my own moussaka! I am sure Maximilian would love that.

After lunch, we took a leisurely stroll through Portaria, browsing the local shops and soaking up the atmosphere of the village. Clara was particularly fascinated by the handmade crafts and insisted on buying a small wooden toy as a souvenir. We also stopped at a local bakery to pick up some traditional Greek sweets, which we planned to enjoy later in the evening. Portaria is such a charming village, with its traditional architecture and friendly locals. It's easy to see why it's known as the Gate of the Mountain of the Centaurs.

For dinner, we decided to try Αρμονικό Παραδοσιακό Εστιατόριο, another traditional restaurant in the area. This restaurant is known for its cozy atmosphere and authentic Greek dishes. We sat at a table in the garden, surrounded by flowers and twinkling lights. The ambiance was magical, and we immediately felt relaxed and at ease. We ordered a variety of dishes to share, including grilled octopus, stuffed tomatoes, and a fresh Greek salad. The food was delicious, and the service was impeccable. It was the perfect way to end a day of exploring Pelion.

To cap off our evening, Maximilian and I decided to visit ooh la la breezy bar for a nightcap while Clara was sleeping. This bar is known for its lively atmosphere and delicious cocktails. We sat at the bar, enjoying the music and the company of the other patrons. I ordered a local wine, while Maximilian opted for a Greek beer. It was a fun and relaxing way to end the day. The bar has a vibrant energy, and it's clear that it's a popular spot with both locals and tourists.

Explore Ooh La La Breezy Bar in Volos for an unforgettable culinary experience featuring local flavors and a vibrant atmosphere.

As I sit here writing this, I can't help but feel grateful for the experiences we've had today. From the mountain highs of the Pelion Ski Centre to the cozy village charm of Portaria, we've seen and done so much. Pelion continues to surprise and delight us at every turn. I'm already looking forward to what tomorrow will bring. We plan to visit Manolas, a charming coastal village, and explore its beaches and local shops. I'm also excited to try some fresh seafood at one of the local restaurants. I have heard Akti is a great place for breakfast [Akti].

Before drifting off to sleep, I must remember to locate Clara’s favorite bedtime storybook, which I seem to have misplaced. Also, I need to remember to check if we packed an extra power adapter, as it seems we are constantly running out of outlets to charge our devices. Tomorrow promises to be another day filled with adventure and discovery. Goodnight from Pelion!