Family Adventure in Pelion, Greece

Pelion's Peaks and Pages

Today was a day of unexpected contrasts, a delightful dance between the natural beauty of Pelion and the rich cultural heritage it holds. We started our day amidst the clouds and ended it steeped in literary history, a truly Pelionian experience that I'm excited to share.

Our morning began with a hearty breakfast at Mountain Top Cafe - Pelion. The aroma of freshly brewed Greek coffee mingled with the scent of pine, setting the perfect tone for our ascent to the Pelion Ski Centre. Jihad and Lina were particularly excited, though I must admit, skiing wasn't exactly on my mind in September. However, the views from the top were simply breathtaking. The landscape was awash with green and gold.

Even though it wasn't ski season, being at the Pelion Ski Centre offered a unique perspective. We could see the Pagasetic Gulf shimmering in the distance, and the crisp mountain air was invigorating. Lina, ever the explorer, was fascinated by the ski lifts and kept asking when the snow would arrive. I imagined the mountain transformed into a winter wonderland, a stark contrast to the warm, sunny September day we were experiencing.


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

After soaking in the panoramic views and snapping a few family photos, we descended the mountain, our appetites whetted for a traditional Greek lunch. We found ourselves at Polydroso restaurant, a hidden gem nestled in the hills. The drive there was an adventure in itself, winding through narrow roads with stunning vistas at every turn. The restaurant is run by a talented couple who cultivate and prepare most ingredients themselves.

The best journeys are those that lead you to unexpected discoveries, both within yourself and in the world around you.

Polydroso restaurant was an absolute delight. The food was exceptional, bursting with authentic Greek flavors. We savored local delicacies like spetzofai and lamb souvlaki, each dish a testament to the region's culinary heritage. The cozy, romantic setting, complete with views overlooking Skiathos and Skopelos, made it a truly unforgettable dining experience. Jihad and Lina were captivated by the scenery, while I couldn't help but feel grateful for these moments of togetherness in such a beautiful setting.


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

In the afternoon, we decided to delve into the cultural side of Pelion. Our destination was the Home of Alexandros Papadiamantis, a renowned Greek writer, located on the island of Skiathos. Although it required a bit of a drive and a short ferry ride, the journey was well worth it. As someone who appreciates literature, I was eager to learn more about this influential figure.

The museum, housed in Papadiamantis' former home, offered a glimpse into his life and works. It was a humble abode, reflecting the simplicity of his existence and the profound depth of his writing. I learned about his stories, often inspired by the lives of ordinary islanders, and his contribution to modern Greek literature. Lina, though initially less enthusiastic about visiting a museum, was intrigued by the old photographs and artifacts on display. I tried to explain to her the importance of preserving cultural heritage, of understanding the stories that shape a place and its people.


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

According to what I found, the house is located in the heart of Skiathos Town, in a side street of Papadiamanti Street. Inside the house, there's also a small shop where you can buy his books and other gadgets. The house was built in 1860 by Adamantios, the author's father. I found out that the museum is open from 10:00 to 13:00 and then again from 17:00 to 19:00, and it's closed on Mondays. It felt special to walk through the rooms where he lived and wrote, imagining the world through his eyes.

As the day drew to a close, we decided to unwind at Monk Paradise Beach Bar. Located on the beach of Agioi Saranda, it was the perfect spot to relax and reflect on our day's adventures. The bar had a relaxed vibe, blending harmoniously with the natural environment. We sipped on refreshing cocktails, while Lina played on the shore, collecting seashells and building sandcastles.


Discover the serene vibes of Monk Paradise Beach Bar in Zagora—where stunning views and refreshing beverages meet.

The Monk Paradise Beach Bar is known for its relaxing and welcoming atmosphere. The decor uses natural materials, like wooden furniture, that blend in perfectly with the scenery. According to online reviews, the service, atmosphere, and products are all high quality. They offer a wide range of drinks and tasty dishes. I chose a Paradise Mojito, and it was perfect!

Jihad and I watched the sunset, painting the sky with hues of orange and pink. It was a moment of pure bliss, a perfect ending to a day filled with contrasts and discoveries. From the heights of the Pelion Ski Centre to the humble home of Alexandros Papadiamantis, we experienced the diverse beauty and rich cultural heritage of this enchanting region.

Tomorrow, we plan to explore Limnionas Beach and take a ride on The Little Train of Pelion. I'm excited to see what other treasures Pelion has in store for us. But for now, I'll cherish the memories of this day, a reminder that the best journeys are those that lead you to unexpected discoveries, both within yourself and in the world around you. Good night from Pelion!

Thinking about our plans for tomorrow, I am excited to ride the Little Train of Pelion. I read that it is a great way to see the landscape. I am also looking forward to seeing Limnionas Beach. I am hoping that the weather will be nice so we can swim in the sea.

As I reflect on our Pelion adventure so far, I'm reminded of how fortunate I am to share these experiences with my family. Living in Toronto, it's easy to get caught up in the hustle and bustle of city life. But these trips allow us to reconnect with each other and with the world around us. It's a chance to slow down, appreciate the simple things, and create lasting memories.

I think back to my childhood in Zahlé, Lebanon, and how much I yearned to see the world. Moving to Canada with Jihad was a dream come true, and now, being able to travel with Lina and show her the beauty of different cultures is incredibly fulfilling. I hope that these experiences will shape her into a curious, open-minded, and compassionate individual.

And as I drift off to sleep, I can't help but smile, knowing that tomorrow holds new adventures and new discoveries. Pelion, you have captured my heart with your beauty, your history, and your warm hospitality. I can't wait to see what tomorrow brings!