Family Adventure in Pelion, Greece

Day 7: Pelion's Peaks and Paradise: A Day of Contrasts

From snowy ski slopes to sun-kissed beaches, experience the diverse beauty of Pelion with family, creating unforgettable memories.

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A Mountain of Memories in Pelion


Today was a day of incredible contrasts, showcasing the diverse beauty of Pelion. We started high up in the mountains, surrounded by the crisp air of the Pelion Ski Centre, and ended our day with our toes in the sand at a vibrant beach bar. It's amazing how much this region has to offer, and I'm so excited to share our experiences.

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

Our day began with an early start. After a hearty breakfast at Mountain Top Cafe - Pelion, we drove up to the Pelion Ski Centre. I had heard so much about it, and I was eager to see it for myself. Even though it's September, the higher altitudes still held a touch of winter's magic. While there wasn't enough snow for skiing, the views were absolutely breathtaking. The crisp mountain air was invigorating, and the panoramic vistas of the surrounding landscape were stunning. Lina was especially thrilled, running around and pretending to ski, her laughter echoing through the mountains. Jihad and I took some photos, trying to capture the beauty of the moment, but no picture could truly do it justice.

Next on our itinerary was the View point portaria. The drive there was an adventure in itself, winding through charming mountain roads. When we arrived, the view was simply mesmerizing. We could see the entire town of Portaria below us, nestled amidst the lush greenery. The Pagasetic Gulf sparkled in the distance, creating a scene of unparalleled beauty. Lina was fascinated by the little houses below, imagining the lives of the people who lived there. We spent some time simply soaking it all in, feeling grateful for the opportunity to witness such a stunning view.

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

For lunch, we decided to try Loukoulos, a restaurant known for its traditional Greek cuisine. The atmosphere was warm and inviting, and the staff were incredibly friendly. We ordered a variety of dishes, including souvlaki, moussaka, and a fresh Greek salad. Everything was delicious, bursting with flavor and made with fresh, local ingredients. Lina especially loved the souvlaki, devouring it with gusto. It was the perfect way to refuel after our morning of exploring.

Experience authentic Greek cuisine at Loukoulos in Chania – where every dish is a celebration of local flavors.
Experience authentic Greek cuisine at Loukoulos in Chania – where every dish is a celebration of local flavors.

It’s not about the destination, but the memories created along the way.


After lunch, we decided to head to the coast. We had heard about Monk Paradise Beach Bar and were intrigued by its reputation. The drive down from the mountains was scenic, offering glimpses of the sparkling Aegean Sea. As we approached the coast, the air grew warmer, and the scent of salt filled our nostrils. When we arrived at Monk Paradise, we were immediately captivated. The bar was nestled on a beautiful beach, with crystal-clear waters lapping at the shore. The atmosphere was lively and vibrant, with music playing and people laughing and chatting. We found a spot on the sand and ordered some refreshing drinks. Lina was thrilled to play in the sand, building sandcastles and splashing in the water. Jihad and I relaxed, enjoying the sun and the lively atmosphere. It was the perfect way to unwind after a day of exploring.

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

As the sun began to set, we decided to have dinner at Archontiko Traditional Restaurant. This restaurant is known for its authentic Greek dishes and its charming ambiance. We sat outside on the terrace, enjoying the cool evening breeze. We ordered a variety of traditional dishes, including lamb chops, grilled octopus, and stuffed tomatoes. The food was incredible, each dish bursting with flavor and cooked to perfection. Lina tried the lamb chops for the first time and loved them, declaring them her new favorite food. The service was impeccable, and the staff made us feel like we were part of their family. It was the perfect ending to a perfect day.

Savor authentic Greek cuisine in Portaria's charming Archontiko Traditional Restaurant, where tradition meets taste.
Savor authentic Greek cuisine in Portaria's charming Archontiko Traditional Restaurant, where tradition meets taste.

Reflecting on our day, I am struck by the incredible diversity of Pelion. In a single day, we experienced the crisp mountain air, breathtaking panoramic views, and the warm, inviting waters of the Aegean Sea. We explored charming villages, indulged in delicious cuisine, and relaxed on a beautiful beach. Pelion truly has something for everyone, and I am so grateful for the opportunity to share these experiences with my family.

Tomorrow, we plan to explore the Centaurs' path and the village of Manolas. I've heard that the Centaurs' path is a beautiful hiking trail that winds through lush forests and offers stunning views of the surrounding landscape. Manolas is a traditional village known for its charming architecture and its friendly locals. I'm excited to see what adventures tomorrow will bring.

As I sit here writing this, I can't help but feel a sense of gratitude for this incredible journey. Leaving Zahlé for Toronto so many years ago, I never imagined I'd be exploring such beautiful places with my family. It's moments like these that make all the sacrifices worthwhile. And as we continue our adventure in Pelion, I know that we'll create even more unforgettable memories together.

The summer events in Pelion seem to be winding down as September progresses, but the charm of the region is definitely still in full swing. Although we missed the Tsagarada Escape Festival which took place earlier in the month , the relaxed atmosphere and stunning scenery more than make up for it. It's a reminder that the best travel experiences are often found in the simple moments, away from the crowds and the organized events.

I'm also looking forward to trying Agora 1955 for breakfast tomorrow. I read that they offer traditional handmade products such as sweets and pies, as well as whatever the region offers, such as fruits, vegetables, cheeses, cold meats, and jams. It sounds like the perfect way to start our day.

Until tomorrow, keep exploring and creating memories!

Go to day 6 A Whistle-Stop Tour Through Pelion's Heart: Riding the Little Train and Discovering Hidden Gems
Go to day 8 Wandering Through Myth and Flavors: A Day in Pelion's Heart
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Family Adventure in Pelion, Greece

Explore the enchanting landscapes and rich culture of Pelion, Greece, with family-friendly adventures and authentic experiences.

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Meet this Featured Explorer

Fatima El Khoury
  • Occupation icon Occupation: Marketing Coordinator
  • Country icon Country: Canada
  • Age icon Age: 38

Ahlan wa Sahlan! I'm Fatima, a Lebanese expat living in Toronto. As a marketing coordinator, wife, and mother, life can get pretty hectic. That's why I cherish every opportunity to explore new places and cultures with my family. My blog, Evendo, is a way for me to share my travel experiences, tips, and unique perspective as someone who has lived in two very different worlds. I hope to inspire you to embark on your own adventures, whether it's a weekend getaway or a cross-continental journey. Follow along as I share my stories and insights, blending my Lebanese heritage with my Canadian life.

Interests:
  • Cultural festivals
  • Middle Eastern cuisine
  • Interior design
  • Photography
  • Learning new languages
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