Family Adventure in Pelion, Greece

A Mythical Start to Our Pelion Adventure

As our plane touched down in Athens and we made our way to Pelion, a sense of excitement filled the air. Jihad, Lina, and I were eager to explore this hidden gem of Greece that I had been researching for months. Leaving behind the familiar streets of Toronto, I was ready to immerse myself in the landscapes and culture of Pelion, a destination that promised a blend of relaxation and adventure for our family. I was looking forward to disconnecting from my role as Marketing Coordinator and simply be 'present' with my family.

Our first day in Pelion was nothing short of magical. After picking up our rental car in Athens, we drove through the winding roads of the Greek countryside, eventually arriving in the charming village of Portaria. The drive itself was an experience, with the landscape changing from urban sprawl to rolling hills dotted with olive groves. Lina was particularly thrilled, pointing out every goat and sheep we passed along the way.

We checked into our guesthouse, a traditional stone building with a view that stretched across the valley. After settling in, our first stop was the Mountain Top Cafe - Pelion for a hearty breakfast. Perched high up, the cafe offered breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains. I savored a traditional Greek coffee, its rich aroma filling the air, while Jihad opted for a strong espresso. Lina devoured a stack of pancakes with local honey, her face smeared with sweetness. It was the perfect start to our day.

With our bellies full and spirits high, we headed to our first official stop: the viewpoint in Portaria. From there, the panoramic vista of Volos and the Pagasetic Gulf was simply stunning. The air was crisp and clean, carrying the scent of pine and wildflowers. I snapped a few photos, trying to capture the beauty that unfolded before us, but no picture could truly do it justice. Lina was fascinated by the distant boats, imagining pirates and sea monsters lurking beneath the waves.


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

The best journeys answer questions that in the beginning, you didn't even think to ask.

Next on our list was the famed Centaurs' Path. As we began our walk, I couldn't help but feel a sense of enchantment. According to Greek mythology, Mount Pelion was home to the Centaurs, creatures that were half-human, half-horse. The trail wound through a lush ravine, following the course of a small stream. Sunlight filtered through the dense canopy, casting dappled shadows on the moss-covered rocks. Lina skipped ahead, her imagination running wild with visions of mythical creatures. Jihad and I strolled hand in hand, enjoying the tranquility of the forest.


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 was well-maintained, marked with red circles on stones to guide us. We crossed small wooden bridges that spanned the stream, the sound of the flowing water adding to the serene atmosphere. Along the way, we found a stone fountain with fresh, drinkable water, a welcome respite after our walk. Lina insisted on splashing her face, giggling as the cold water trickled down her cheeks.

After our mythical walk, we made our way to the Sycamore of Peace Square. The square was dominated by a massive sycamore tree, its branches providing shade and a sense of timelessness. We sat on a bench, watching as locals and tourists mingled, enjoying the peaceful ambiance. Lina chased pigeons, her laughter echoing through the square. I couldn't help but feel a sense of contentment, a feeling that we had found a special place, far removed from the hustle and bustle of everyday life.


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

Before lunch, we stopped by Filokaliashandmadecreations, a local shop showcasing handmade crafts. I was immediately drawn to the intricate designs and vibrant colors of the textiles. I purchased a small, hand-embroidered tablecloth as a souvenir, a reminder of our time in Portaria. Lina picked out a small, wooden toy, shaped like a centaur, a tangible connection to the mythology of the region.


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

Lunch was at Polydroso restaurant, a culinary gem with breathtaking views. The restaurant is run by a talented couple who cultivate and prepare most ingredients themselves. We savored authentic Greek flavors, indulging in local delicacies like spetzofai and lamb souvlaki. The cozy, romantic setting and the stunning views overlooking Skiathos and Skopelos made it an unforgettable dining experience. Lina, surprisingly, enjoyed the spetzofai, a hearty stew of sausages and peppers. Jihad and I shared a bottle of local wine, its fruity notes complementing the rich flavors of the food.


Discover authentic Greek flavors at Polydroso Restaurant in Pouri - where tradition meets taste amidst stunning scenery.

In the late afternoon, as the sun began to dip below the horizon, we drove back to our guesthouse. Before dinner, we decided to do some shopping. Portaria has three squares where you can rest after your walks: the central square “Melina Merkouri”, Adamenas square, where the Centaurus Path to the spring Mana begins, and Taxiarches square with its stone chapel. We tasted original dishes such as the famous spetzofai and the grilled sausages of the area, which you can accompany with local tsipouro or wine. One of the best taverns in the square is Kritsa Tavern, which has its own guest house under the name Gastronomy Hotel Kritsa. I bought some spices and sweets in a cool shop.

For dinner, we chose KRITSA Restaurant, known for its traditional Greek cuisine. The restaurant was located in the basement of the Kritsa Hotel, a high-ceilinged room with light colors and a cozy fireplace. Niki, the owner, greeted us warmly, making us feel like we were old friends. We ordered a variety of dishes, including Greek salad, moussaka, and grilled lamb. The food was simple, yet flavorful, showcasing the fresh, local ingredients. Lina especially enjoyed the baked desserts, devouring a plate of baklava with gusto. The wine list is diverse and can satisfy the needs of all clients. The staff was accommodating, and the service was fast. The atmosphere was pleasant and cute.

As the day drew to a close, I reflected on our first day in Pelion. It had been a whirlwind of sights, sounds, and flavors, a perfect introduction to this enchanting region. From the stunning viewpoints to the mythical trails and the delicious food, Portaria had captured our hearts. I was excited to see what the rest of our trip would bring. Tomorrow, we plan to take the Train of Pilio and visit the Pelion Cross of Jesus Observation Point.

Back at our guesthouse, Lina was already fast asleep, dreaming of centaurs and magical forests. Jihad and I sat on the balcony, sipping local wine and gazing at the stars. The air was cool and still, carrying the distant sound of crickets. I felt a sense of peace and gratitude, thankful for this opportunity to explore a new corner of the world with my family. As I drifted off to sleep, I knew that our adventure in Pelion was just beginning.

The weather in Pelion on September 3rd was pleasant, with a high of 25 degrees Celsius. The UV index was high, so we made sure to apply sunscreen throughout the day. There were no local events taking place in Portaria on this particular day, but we learned that Pelion hosts numerous festivals and celebrations throughout the year. Perhaps we'll be lucky enough to catch one during our stay.