Family Adventure in Pelion, Greece

A Mythical Start to Our Pelion Adventure

Our Pelion adventure began today, and it was nothing short of magical. From the moment we arrived, the air was filled with the scent of pine and wildflowers, a welcome change from the city air of Dresden. I felt instantly connected to this land, as if the ancient stories whispered on the breeze were calling me home. Today was all about immersing ourselves in the local culture and natural beauty, and Pelion certainly didn't disappoint.

Our journey from Athens was smooth, and as we approached Pelion, the landscape transformed into a lush paradise. Maximilian expertly navigated the winding roads, while Clara gazed out the window, her eyes wide with wonder at the vibrant greenery. The region is known for its stunning beaches, but I was equally captivated by the dense forests and traditional villages clinging to the mountainsides [i].

Our first stop was the View point portaria. The panoramic vista was breathtaking, offering a sweeping view of Volos and the Pagasetic Gulf. The sky was a brilliant blue, dotted with fluffy white clouds, and the sun cast a golden glow over the landscape. It was the perfect spot to stretch our legs and take in the beauty of our surroundings. I snapped a few photos, trying to capture the moment, but no image could truly convey the feeling of standing there, breathing in the fresh mountain air.


Discover the stunning landscapes and serene beauty of the Portaria Viewpoint, a must-visit destination for all tourists exploring Greece.

Sometimes, the most beautiful paths are the ones we least expect to find, leading us to places we never imagined existed.

After soaking in the view, we headed to Mountain Top Cafe - Pelion for breakfast. The cafe lived up to its name, perched high with stunning views. We savored traditional Greek yogurt with honey and walnuts, and a strong, fragrant coffee that gave us the perfect energy boost for the day ahead. Clara devoured her pastry, a big smile on her face, while Maximilian and I discussed our plans for the week. It felt wonderful to be together, away from the hustle and bustle of daily life, simply enjoying each other's company.


Discover the perfect blend of breathtaking views and delightful flavors at Mountain Top Cafe in Pelion.

Next on our list was the famed Centaurs' path. According to local legend, this path was once used by the mythical Centaurs, creatures with the upper body of a human and the lower body of a horse. The idea of walking in the footsteps of these mythical beings added an extra layer of excitement to our hike. The trail began at the Adamena gate and meandered through a lush ravine, with the soothing sound of a gentle stream accompanying us along the way.


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

The path itself was relatively easy, making it perfect for a family hike. Clara skipped ahead, her imagination running wild with stories of Centaurs and ancient gods. The September sun filtered through the trees, creating dappled patterns on the forest floor. I was grateful for the shade, as the weather was warm, with temperatures in the mid-20s Celsius. We crossed several wooden bridges that spanned the stream, each one offering a picturesque view of small waterfalls and pools.

However, we did notice some damage from recent floods and rockslides. There were a few areas where the path was a bit challenging, with debris and uneven terrain. I was glad we had worn our hiking shoes, as they provided good grip and support. Despite the damage, the beauty of the trail shone through, with tall trees providing ample shade and a refreshing spring of cold water at the end.

Quote from Emilía's Travel Journal:

The Centaurs' Path was more than just a hike; it was a journey into the heart of Greek mythology. As we walked, I imagined these mythical creatures roaming the hills, their hooves echoing through the forest. It was a reminder that even in the most ordinary of places, magic can be found if you know where to look.

After our invigorating hike, we were ready for lunch. We chose Tavern Pelion Geuseis Portaria, a charming spot known for its authentic Greek cuisine. The tavern had a cozy atmosphere, and the staff welcomed us with warm smiles. We ordered a selection of traditional dishes, including lamb cutlets, pork, and a delicious Greek salad. The ingredients were incredibly fresh, and the flavors were bursting with Mediterranean goodness. Clara especially loved the lamb, declaring it the best she had ever tasted.


Experience the heart of Greek cuisine at Tavern Pelion Geuseis in Portaria - where every meal tells a story.

The tavern uses a wood oven to cook their meat, which brings out a unique and delicious flavor. We accompanied our meal with local wine, a perfect complement to the hearty fare. The prices were reasonable, and the service was excellent. It was a truly memorable dining experience, and I would highly recommend this tavern to anyone visiting Portaria.

In the afternoon, we strolled through the streets of Portaria, soaking in the local atmosphere. The village is filled with traditional houses and mansions, cobblestone paths, and spring waters. We visited Filokaliashandmadecreations, a delightful shop selling handmade crafts and souvenirs. I purchased a beautiful hand-painted ceramic bowl, a reminder of our time in Pelion, while Clara picked out a small wooden toy.


Discover the charm of Filokalia Handmade Creations in Portaria, where unique handcrafted jewelry meets the essence of Greek artistry.

As the day drew to a close, we made our way to KRITSA Restaurant for dinner. Located in the Kritsa Hotel, this restaurant is known for its high-quality cuisine and charming ambiance. The dining room was tastefully decorated, with light colors and an inviting fireplace. We opted to sit outside under the gigantic plane trees, enjoying the cool evening air.


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

The menu featured a variety of Mediterranean dishes, with an emphasis on local ingredients and traditional recipes. We started with a selection of appetizers, including tzatziki, dolmades, and grilled halloumi. For our main courses, I chose the spetzofai, a hearty sausage stew, while Maximilian opted for the moussaka, a classic Greek dish. Clara enjoyed a simple but delicious pasta dish. The food was exceptional, each dish prepared with care and attention to detail.

The restaurant is known for its homemade pastries, so we couldn't resist trying a few desserts. We shared a baked apple and a portion of Greek yogurt with honey, both of which were heavenly. The service was friendly and efficient, and the atmosphere was relaxed and inviting. It was the perfect way to end our first day in Pelion.

As we walked back to our guesthouse, the stars twinkled above us, and the air was filled with the sounds of crickets chirping. I felt a sense of contentment wash over me. Pelion had already captured my heart, and I knew that the days ahead would be filled with even more adventures and discoveries.

Tomorrow, we plan to explore the Train of Pilio and visit the Pelion Cross of Jesus Observation Point. We're also hoping to relax at the Monk Paradise Beach Bar. I can't wait to see what tomorrow brings. I'm also mindful to bring Clara's favorite bedtime storybook, which I unfortunately forgot to pack [Monk Paradise Beach Bar 1].

Quote from Emilía's Travel Journal:

Pelion is a place where time seems to slow down, where the beauty of nature and the warmth of the people create a truly magical experience. I'm so grateful to be here with my family, creating memories that will last a lifetime.

Reflecting on today, I realize how much I appreciate these moments of connection with my family and with nature. It's a reminder of what truly matters in life and a chance to disconnect from the stresses of everyday life. I'm already looking forward to tomorrow's adventures and the opportunity to discover more of Pelion's hidden gems.