Family Adventure in Pelion, Greece

Sunday Serenity in Volos

Today was one of those perfect travel days where everything just flowed effortlessly. It was a day dedicated to soaking in the local atmosphere of Volos, enjoying simple pleasures with Jihad and Lina, and creating memories that I know we’ll cherish long after we’ve left Pelion. It’s days like these that remind me why I love to travel, to experience life at a different pace, and to appreciate the beauty in the everyday.

Our day began with a delightful breakfast at Agora 1955. The warm and inviting atmosphere was exactly what we needed to start our Sunday on a high note. I had read so many great reviews about their pies and pastries, and they certainly lived up to the hype. We settled into a cozy corner, and I ordered a traditional Greek coffee, while Jihad opted for a cappuccino. Lina, of course, was thrilled with her choice of a freshly baked doughnut, drizzled with local honey. The staff were incredibly friendly, making us feel right at home. It felt like a perfect start to the day, fueling us up for our adventures in Volos. I even picked up some local cheese and herbs from their deli section, excited to try them in our cooking later this week.

After breakfast, we decided to take a leisurely stroll through Saint Konstantinos Park. The park is an enchanting retreat in the heart of Volos, and it was just a short drive from Portaria. As we entered, we were immediately greeted by the sight of tall trees providing ample shade and colorful flower beds showcasing seasonal blooms. It was a welcome escape from the bustling city life. Lina was particularly excited to see the ducks swimming gracefully in the picturesque lake. We found a bench near the water and simply sat there, enjoying the scenery and the peaceful atmosphere. I couldn't help but feel grateful for these moments of tranquility with my family, a world away from our busy lives back in Toronto.


Explore the lush greenery and historic monuments of Saint Konstantinos Park in Volos, a serene retreat for tourists and locals alike.

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

As we continued our walk, we noticed several historic monuments within the park. It was fascinating to learn about the history of the region while enjoying the beauty of nature. The park was filled with locals enjoying their Sunday routines, from families picnicking on the grass to couples taking romantic strolls. It was a wonderful opportunity to experience the authentic culture of Volos. We even saw an open-air concert taking place, adding a lively touch to the already vibrant atmosphere.

Next on our itinerary was the Sycamore of Peace Square in Makrinitsa. The drive to Makrinitsa was an experience in itself, with winding roads offering breathtaking views of the Pagasetic Gulf and the surrounding hills. As we arrived in the village, we were immediately charmed by the traditional stone houses and cobblestone streets. The square is dominated by a magnificent sycamore tree, which has stood for decades, symbolizing peace and tranquility. It was truly a sight to behold. We took some time to relax under the shade of the tree, soaking in the serene atmosphere. Lina enjoyed chasing pigeons around the square, while Jihad and I admired the intricate architecture of the surrounding buildings. Local artisans were showcasing their crafts nearby, and I couldn't resist purchasing a beautiful handmade ceramic bowl as a souvenir.


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

For lunch, we headed to the Salkimi tavern in Milies. This tavern is known for its traditional Greek cuisine with an Asia Minor influence, and I was eager to try it. The tavern itself was charming, with a wooden cloak and the scent of delicious aromas wafting from the kitchen. We were warmly greeted by Antonis, the owner, who made us feel like part of the family. We ordered a variety of dishes, including handmade pies, stuffed vine leaves, and bean soup. Everything was made with local ingredients and cooked with love and passion. The flavors were incredible, and it was clear that this was a place where locals came to enjoy authentic Greek food. Lina particularly enjoyed the *moustalevria*, a traditional Greek grape must pudding.


Experience authentic Greek cuisine at Salkimi in Pelion—where traditional flavors meet warm hospitality.

After our satisfying lunch, we decided to do some shopping at Mediterraneo Art Store in Ag. Kiriaki. This charming gift shop is known for its exquisite collection of handmade crafts and artworks, making it the perfect place to find unique souvenirs. As we stepped inside, we were greeted by a warm atmosphere filled with local artistry and creativity. I was impressed by the array of items on display, from intricate ceramics to beautifully crafted textiles. The staff were knowledgeable and passionate about the crafts, sharing insights about the artists behind them. I ended up buying a beautiful hand-painted scarf for my sister and a wooden toy for Lina. It felt good to support local artisans and bring home something truly special.


Explore the charm of local arts and crafts at Mediterraneo Art Store in Ag. Kiriaki, Pelion, and take home a piece of Greek heritage.

As the sun began to set, we made our way to O Christos for dinner. The restaurant had no reviews, but we decided to give it a try, intrigued by its location and menu. We were not disappointed. The food was delicious, and the service was excellent. It was the perfect way to end our day of exploration and relaxation.


Discover O Christos in Agios Ioannis for an authentic seafood experience blending fresh flavors with breathtaking views of the Aegean Sea.

Reflecting on the day, I realized how much I appreciate these slower-paced travel experiences. It's not about rushing from one tourist attraction to another, but about immersing ourselves in the local culture, connecting with people, and savoring the simple moments. Volos has a charm that’s all its own, and I’m so glad we took the time to explore it. Tomorrow, we're planning to visit the Pelion Ski Centre and the Home of Alexandros Papadiamantis. I'm excited for another day of adventure and discovery in this beautiful region of Greece. I'm hoping the ski center will offer some great views, even if it's not ski season, and I'm curious to learn more about Alexandros Papadiamantis.

As we drove back to our guesthouse, Lina fell asleep in the back seat, her face flushed with the day’s adventures. Jihad and I exchanged a knowing smile, grateful for another day of unforgettable memories made together. I am also grateful that I remembered to pack sunscreen, as the Greek sun can be quite strong, especially during midday. I will definitely need it tomorrow, as we are planning on spending a lot of time outdoors. I am also excited to try out some of the local cheeses and herbs that I bought at Agora 1955. I am thinking of making a traditional Lebanese dish with a Greek twist. I am sure it will be delicious!

I am looking forward to sharing more of our Pelion adventures with you all. Stay tuned for tomorrow’s blog post!