Family Adventure in Pelion, Greece

Echoes of the Past in Pelion

Today was a day of diving into the soul of Greece, exploring both its literary heritage and the timeless beauty of its villages. Pelion continues to surprise me with its ability to blend culture, history, and natural splendor into a single, unforgettable experience. I felt a deep connection to the land and its stories, a feeling I know Jihad and Lina share.

Our day began with a delightful breakfast at Souaré Anelion Pelion. The fresh, local ingredients were a perfect start, fueling us for the day’s adventures. As I sipped my coffee, I couldn't help but reflect on how much I appreciate these simple moments with my family, a world away from our busy life in Toronto. It's these shared experiences that make our travels so special.

A Literary Journey to Skiathos (Almost!)

Our first planned stop was the Home of Alexandros Papadiamantis. However, there seemed to be a slight confusion with the GPS, as we ended up on a ferry heading towards Skiathos! It turned out that the famed writer's house is actually located on that island, not in Pelion. While initially a bit flustered, we decided to embrace the detour. I mean, how often do you accidentally find yourself on a mini-cruise in Greece? We enjoyed the stunning views of the Aegean Sea, the sun kissing our faces, and the refreshing sea breeze. Lina was particularly thrilled, spotting dolphins jumping in the distance. Though we didn't make it to the house itself today, we learned that Alexandros Papadiamantis was a significant Greek writer. Born in 1851, he spent most of his life in Skiathos, and his works often reflected his deep connection to the island, his strong religious beliefs, and the simple life. His house, now a museum, showcases his life and work, filled with personal items and manuscripts. It sounds like a place I'd love to visit, perhaps on another trip dedicated to exploring the Sporades islands.


Discover the enchanting world of Alexandros Papadiamantis at his home in Skiathos, a heritage museum showcasing Greece's literary history.

Exploring Manolas: A Village Untouched by Time

After our unplanned sea adventure, we returned to Pelion and set our sights on Manolas. This charming village, perched high on the mountainside, offered a glimpse into a more traditional way of life. As we drove through the winding roads, the landscape transformed into a tapestry of lush greenery and stone houses. The air was filled with the scent of wildflowers and herbs, a sensory feast that reminded me of Zahlé, my hometown in Lebanon. Manolas itself was a maze of narrow streets and traditional architecture. We parked the car at the edge of the village and wandered on foot, soaking in the atmosphere. The pace of life here was slow and deliberate, a welcome contrast to the hustle and bustle of Toronto. Old men sat outside cafes, sipping coffee and playing backgammon, while women tended to their gardens, their hands stained with earth. Lina was fascinated by the chickens roaming freely in the streets, their clucking adding to the village's rustic charm.


Discover the charm of Ag. Kiriaki with fresh seafood and local flavors at Manolas – a culinary delight by the sea.

Sometimes, the greatest adventures are found not in grand monuments, but in the quiet corners of the world, where life unfolds at its own pace.

We stumbled upon a tiny church, its whitewashed walls gleaming in the afternoon sun. Inside, the air was cool and still, filled with the scent of beeswax and incense. I lit a candle and said a prayer for my family, for our health and happiness. It was a moment of quiet reflection, a reminder of the importance of faith and family in my life. As we continued our exploration, we discovered hidden courtyards, overflowing with flowers, and breathtaking views of the Aegean Sea. It was as if time had stood still in Manolas, preserving a way of life that has long been forgotten in other parts of the world. I couldn't help but feel a sense of peace and contentment, a feeling that I knew would stay with me long after we left.

A Taste of Authentic Pelion Cuisine

Lunch at Synantisi was a true culinary delight. This traditional taverna offered a menu filled with local specialties, prepared with fresh, seasonal ingredients. We started with a selection of mezes, small plates designed for sharing. There was creamy tzatziki, flavorful dolmades (stuffed grape leaves), and crispy fried zucchini. For our main courses, Jihad opted for the grilled lamb, while I chose the moussaka, a classic Greek dish of eggplant, potatoes, and meat sauce, topped with a rich béchamel sauce. Lina, of course, went for the souvlaki, grilled skewers of marinated pork. Every dish was bursting with flavor, a testament to the quality of the ingredients and the skill of the cook. As we ate, we chatted and laughed, savoring not only the food but also the company. It was a perfect family meal, a moment of connection and joy that I will always cherish.


Experience authentic Greek cuisine at Synantisi in Kissos - where every dish tells a story.

Shopping for Local Treasures

Before leaving Anelion, we stopped by Chrysomallos Mini Market. I wanted to pick up some local products to take back home, souvenirs that would remind us of our time in Pelion. I found a jar of local honey, its golden color hinting at the floral notes within. I also bought a bottle of olive oil, its rich, fruity aroma a promise of delicious meals to come. And, of course, I couldn't resist a bag of dried herbs, a blend of oregano, thyme, and rosemary, their fragrance evoking the scent of the Pelion mountains. These small treasures would not only be a reminder of our trip but also a way to share the flavors of Greece with our friends and family back in Toronto.


Explore local delights and pick up essentials at Chrysomallos Mini Market in Portaria, your go-to convenience store while discovering Mount Pelion.

Dinner with a View

Our day ended with a delightful dinner at Armonia Restaurant. The restaurant's location offered stunning views of the surrounding landscape, the setting sun painting the sky in hues of orange and pink. The food was delicious, a mix of traditional Greek dishes and international flavors. I opted for the fresh seafood, grilled to perfection and served with a simple lemon sauce. Jihad chose the pasta, while Lina happily munched on her chicken nuggets. As we ate, we watched the stars begin to appear in the night sky, their twinkling light adding to the magical atmosphere. It was a perfect ending to a perfect day, a moment of peace and contentment that I will always remember.


Discover authentic Greek cuisine at Armonia Restaurant in Agios Ioannis, where every meal is a celebration of local flavors and stunning views.

As I reflect on today, I am filled with gratitude for the experiences we shared. From our unplanned ferry trip to Skiathos to our exploration of the charming village of Manolas, every moment was a gift. Pelion continues to enchant me with its beauty, its history, and its people. I am so grateful to be able to share these experiences with my family, creating memories that will last a lifetime.

Tomorrow, we are planning to visit Limnionas Beach and the Spring of Manas. I am looking forward to another day of exploration and adventure in this beautiful part of the world. And perhaps, we'll find a moment to relax at Kenta Seaside Bar, enjoying a refreshing drink as we watch the sunset. Until then, kalinychta (good night) from Pelion!