Family Adventure in Pelion, Greece

Pelion's Perfect Blend: Beach Bliss and Railway Nostalgia

Today was a day of contrasts, a beautiful blend of relaxation and adventure that perfectly encapsulates what I love about traveling. We started with the serene beauty of a hidden beach and ended with a nostalgic journey on a historic train, creating memories that I know Lina will cherish for years to come. It was a day that reminded me why we chose Pelion for our family escape – a place where the simple joys of life are amplified by stunning landscapes and rich history.

Our day began with a delightful breakfast at To Katofli tis Ketis. The warm welcome and the delicious, home-cooked food made us feel like we were part of the family. I savored every bite, thinking how much this experience reminded me of Zahlé, where family meals are at the heart of our culture. After breakfast, we made a quick stop at Chrysomallos Mini Market to grab some snacks and drinks for our beach adventure. It’s amazing how these little local shops often have the best regional delicacies. Jihad found some local honey he was excited to try, and Lina was thrilled with her choice of a traditional Greek sweet.

Limnionas Beach: A Hidden Paradise

Our main destination for the morning was Limnionas Beach, a spot I had read about in my guidebook and was eager to explore. The drive there was a bit of an adventure in itself, with narrow, winding roads that offered glimpses of the stunning Aegean Sea. When we finally arrived, we were greeted by a scene of unparalleled beauty. Limnionas is a small, secluded beach with crystal-clear turquoise waters and a mix of golden sand and small pebbles.


Experience the tranquil beauty of Limnionas Beach, a hidden gem in Greece known for its crystal-clear waters and serene surroundings.

The beach is framed by dramatic cliffs and lush greenery, creating a sense of being in a hidden paradise. It was exactly the kind of tranquil escape we needed. Lina was immediately captivated by the water, eager to start swimming. Jihad and I took our time, soaking in the peaceful atmosphere and the breathtaking views.

We spent the morning swimming, sunbathing, and exploring the rocky coastline. The water was so clear that we could see tiny fish darting around our feet. Lina loved collecting seashells and building sandcastles, while Jihad and I enjoyed simply relaxing and watching her play. This beach is not organized, so we were happy we had brought our umbrellas.

Sometimes, the most beautiful places are the ones that require a little extra effort to reach.

As we relaxed on the beach, I couldn't help but reflect on how far we've come as a family. Leaving Lebanon for Canada was a huge step, but it gave us the stability and opportunities we needed. Now, being able to share these travel experiences with Lina and Jihad feels like a dream come true. Seeing Lina’s eyes light up as she discovers new places and cultures is the greatest reward.

Lunch with a View at Meintani (Niki's Taverna)

After a blissful morning at Limnionas Beach, we drove to Zagora for lunch at Meintani (Niki's Taverna). This taverna came highly recommended for its authentic Greek cuisine and stunning views. The drive to Zagora was beautiful, with winding roads that climbed through lush forests and offered panoramic views of the coastline.


Discover the flavors of Greece at Meintani (Niki's Taverna) in Zagora – where tradition meets taste!

When we arrived at Meintani, we were immediately charmed by its cozy atmosphere and the warm welcome from the staff. The taverna is perched on a hillside, offering breathtaking views of the Aegean Sea. We were lucky enough to get a table on the balcony, where we could soak in the stunning scenery while we ate.

Niki's Taverna is known for its traditional Greek dishes made with fresh, local ingredients. We started with a classic Greek salad, bursting with the flavors of ripe tomatoes, cucumbers, olives, and feta cheese. For our main courses, Jihad ordered the kleftiko (slow-cooked lamb), Lina had the meatballs, and I opted for the fresh fish. Every dish was cooked to perfection and full of flavor.

As we savored our meal, we talked about our favorite moments from the trip so far. Lina was especially excited about the Little Train of Pelion, which we were scheduled to ride in the afternoon. The atmosphere was so cozy with wooden decor, and I could imagine sitting by the wooden stove in winter.

The Little Train of Pelion: A Journey Through Time

In the afternoon, we headed to Ano Lechonia to catch The Little Train of Pelion. This historic train, also known as “Moutzouris,” is a narrow-gauge railway that winds its way through the scenic mountains of Pelion. The train was originally built in the late 19th century to connect the villages of Pelion with the city of Volos and played a crucial role in the region's economic development.


Ride the historic Little Train of Pelion through stunning landscapes, connecting charming villages and offering breathtaking views of Greece.

The ride on the Little Train was like stepping back in time. The vintage carriages, the rhythmic chugging of the engine, and the stunning landscapes created a truly magical experience. As the train slowly climbed the slopes of Mount Pelion, we were treated to breathtaking views of lush forests, olive groves, and the sparkling Pagasetic Gulf.

The train journey lasted about 90 minutes, taking us through a series of tunnels, over stone bridges, and past picturesque villages. One of the highlights was crossing the steel bridge of Taxiarchis, also known as De Chirico's Bridge, a unique engineering marvel where the tracks curve while the bridge remains straight.

Lina was absolutely thrilled by the train ride. She loved waving to the people we passed along the way and pointing out the sheep grazing in the fields. Jihad and I enjoyed the opportunity to relax and soak in the beauty of the Pelion countryside. It was a perfect way to appreciate the natural beauty of this region and learn about its rich history.

Dinner by the Sea at Pagasitikos Restaurant

For dinner, we chose Pagasitikos Restaurant in Kala Nera, drawn by its reputation for fresh seafood and its location right next to the beach. The restaurant has been a family-run business since 1934, and it exudes a warm, welcoming atmosphere.


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

We arrived just as the sun was setting, casting a golden glow over the sea. We sat at a table overlooking the water and enjoyed the gentle sea breeze as we perused the menu. We started with some grilled sardines and calamari, both incredibly fresh and flavorful. For our main courses, Jihad ordered the beef casserole, Lina enjoyed the pasta, and I had the shrimp.

As we ate, we watched the boats bobbing in the harbor and listened to the gentle lapping of the waves. It was the perfect ending to a perfect day. The combination of delicious food, stunning scenery, and the company of my loved ones made it a truly unforgettable experience.

As we head into our final day tomorrow, I'm already feeling a tinge of sadness that our Pelion adventure is coming to an end. Tomorrow, we plan to visit the Spring of Manas and the Pelion Cross of Jesus Observation Point, hoping to soak in even more of this beautiful region before we head back to Toronto. I am also hoping to visit Red Nose Bar.

But for now, I'm grateful for the memories we've made today – the tranquil beauty of Limnionas Beach, the nostalgic charm of the Little Train of Pelion, and the delicious flavors of Greek cuisine. These are the moments that make travel so special, and I can't wait to see what tomorrow brings.