Family Adventure in Pelion, Greece

Chugging Through History

Today was a day of delightful contrasts, blending the charm of a vintage railway with the stunning vistas that Pelion generously offers. It was a day where time seemed to slow down, allowing us to fully appreciate the beauty surrounding us. From the rhythmic chugging of a historic train to panoramic views that stretched as far as the eye could see, every moment was a treasure.

Our day began with a hearty breakfast at Dovas Home Cooking. It's always a pleasure to start the day with a meal that feels like it was prepared with love [i]. The simple, honest flavors of Greek home cooking are something I truly cherish, and it set the perfect tone for our adventures.


Experience authentic Greek cuisine at Dovas Home Cooking in Chorefto - where fresh ingredients meet traditional recipes.

After breakfast, we made our way to Ano Lehonia, the starting point for our ride on the legendary Train of Pilio (Ano Lekhonia - Milies). This wasn't just a train ride; it was a journey back in time. Known affectionately as Moutzouris (the smudgy one) because of the black smoke it puffs out, this narrow-gauge train has been chugging along these tracks since the late 19th century.


Journey through history and nature on the Train of Pilio, a vintage steam train experience in the scenic Pelion region of Greece.

As the train whistle blew, signaling our departure, Lina's eyes lit up with excitement. Jihad and I exchanged smiles, knowing this would be a memorable experience for her. The train itself is a marvel, with its vintage carriages and the narrowest railway tracks I've ever seen – just 60 cm wide. As we began our ascent, I couldn't help but imagine what it must have been like when this railway was first built, connecting the remote villages of Pelion with the coastal city of Volos.

The journey from Ano Lehonia to Milies is approximately 15 kilometers and takes about 90 minutes. The route is nothing short of spectacular. We passed through verdant slopes dotted with olive groves, plane trees, and pines. The Pagasitikos Gulf sparkled in the distance, offering breathtaking panoramic views. Lina was captivated, pointing out the sheep grazing on the hillsides and the colorful wildflowers that lined the tracks. The train made a brief stop at Ano Gatzea, a small village where we had just enough time to stretch our legs and grab a quick coffee. The air was fresh and crisp, carrying the scent of pine and damp earth.

Back on board, the train continued its climb, and the scenery became even more dramatic. We crossed stone bridges and passed through tunnels, each turn revealing a new vista. One of the highlights was crossing the steel bridge of Taxiarchis, also known as De Chirico Bridge, named after Evaristo de Chirico, the father of the famous painter Giorgio de Chirico. It’s an architectural marvel that seems to defy gravity, and I couldn't help but feel a sense of awe as we traversed it.

The best view comes after the hardest climb.

Arriving in Milies, the end of the line, felt like stepping into a postcard. This charming village is nestled high in the mountains and boasts traditional guesthouses, tavernas, and a beautiful church. We followed the cobblestone path to the village center, where we explored the local shops and soaked in the atmosphere. The Church of the Archangels, built before 1741, was particularly impressive, with its intricate frescoes and serene ambiance.

After Milies, we drove to the Pelion Cross of Jesus Observation Point. The drive itself was an adventure, winding through narrow mountain roads with hairpin turns. But the panoramic views from the top were more than worth the effort. From this vantage point, we could see the entire Pelion peninsula, with its dramatic coastline and rolling hills. The vastness of the landscape was humbling, and it gave me a renewed appreciation for the natural beauty of Greece.


Discover breathtaking panoramic views from the Pelion Cross of Jesus Observation Point, a serene escape on the enchanting Pelion Peninsula.

For lunch, we stopped at Souaré Anelion Pelion. The restaurant was nestled in a cozy spot with a lovely view. We savored traditional Greek dishes, enjoying the fresh, local ingredients and the warm hospitality. Lina, of course, opted for her favorite – souvlaki – while Jihad and I shared a meze platter with various dips, olives, and cheeses.


Discover family-friendly dining at Souaré Anelion Pelion - where authentic Greek flavors meet warm hospitality.

In the afternoon, we visited Filokaliashandmadecreations, a local shop featuring handmade crafts. I always enjoy supporting local artisans and finding unique souvenirs to bring back home. I picked up a few small items, including a hand-painted ceramic bowl and a woven bracelet for Lina. It's these little treasures that remind me of our travels long after we've returned home.


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

As evening approached, we headed to Venezia Pizza Restaurant for dinner. After days of traditional Greek food, Lina was craving pizza, and this place came highly recommended. The pizza was delicious, with a crispy crust and generous toppings. It was a welcome change of pace, and we all enjoyed the relaxed atmosphere.


Discover the heart of Italian cuisine at Venezia Pizza Restaurant in Agios Ioannis Pelio - where every meal is a celebration of flavor.

Today was a reminder of why we love to travel as a family. It's not just about seeing new places; it's about creating shared experiences and memories that will last a lifetime. As we drove back to our guesthouse, Lina fell asleep in the backseat, her face flushed with the day's adventures. I looked at Jihad, and we both knew that this trip to Pelion was something special.

Tomorrow, we plan to explore more of Pelion's natural beauty with a visit to the Centaurs' path and the viewpoint in Portaria. I’ve heard that the Centaurs' path is a beautiful hike through lush forests, and I'm looking forward to immersing ourselves in nature. We’ll also grab breakfast at Akti, lunch at KRITSA Restaurant, and dinner at Pelion Plaza. And perhaps, if we have time, we will have a drink at ooh la la breezy bar.

As I reflect on today, I’m filled with gratitude for the opportunity to share these experiences with my family. Travel is more than just ticking off destinations on a list; it’s about connecting with each other and with the world around us. And in Pelion, we’ve found a place that nourishes both our souls and our senses.

I am also very grateful I did not forget any TripEssentials today!