Exploring the Natural Beauty and Cultural Richness of Mount Pelion

A Fond Farewell to Pelion

As our two-week adventure in Mount Pelion draws to a close, I find myself reflecting on the incredible experiences we’ve shared as a family. This trip has been more than just a vacation; it’s been a journey into the heart of Greek culture, a reconnection with nature, and a strengthening of the bonds that tie Jean-Pierre, Sofia, and me together. Today, our final day, was a perfect culmination of all that we’ve come to love about this enchanting region.

Our morning began with a leisurely breakfast at KRITSA Restaurant in Portaria. The aroma of freshly baked bread and strong Greek coffee filled the air as we settled into our seats. I savored each bite of the traditional pastries, remembering my own attempts at recreating such delicacies back in Montreal. Jean-Pierre, ever the architect, admired the restaurant's charming décor, noting the way the light played through the windows. Sofia, of course, was already snapping photos for her Instagram, capturing the quaint beauty of the setting.

After breakfast, we decided to take a relaxing stroll through Saint Konstantinos Park in Volos. The park, a green oasis by the sea, was bustling with locals enjoying their Sunday morning. We wandered along the shaded paths, admiring the vibrant flowers and the sparkling waters of the Pagasitic Gulf. Sofia was thrilled to spot a few stray cats, reminding us of our beloved feline friend, Romeo, back home. Jean-Pierre and I took a moment to sit on a bench, watching the boats bobbing in the harbor and feeling the gentle sea breeze on our faces. It was a peaceful interlude, a perfect way to soak in the last moments of our Pelion adventure.


Discover Saint Konstantinos Park in Volos: a historic waterfront park with scenic views, recreational activities, and cultural landmarks.

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

Next, we ventured to the Stream at Plakotoura, a hidden gem nestled in the Zagoras region. The drive itself was an adventure, with winding roads offering breathtaking views of the Pelion landscape. As we arrived, the sound of flowing water greeted us, creating a sense of tranquility. We followed the trails along the stream, marveling at the lush greenery and the crystal-clear waters. Sofia, always the adventurous one, insisted on wading in the stream, her laughter echoing through the trees. Jean-Pierre, with his keen eye for detail, pointed out the diverse flora and fauna, sharing interesting facts about the local ecosystem.


Discover the serene beauty of Stream at Plakotoura in Zagoras, Greece: clear waters, lush greenery, and tranquil nature trails await!

For lunch, we chose cardamo OINOMAGEIREIO in Makrinitsa, a restaurant known for its authentic Greek cuisine and stunning views. As we sat on the terrace, overlooking the picturesque village, I felt a sense of contentment wash over me. We savored each dish, from the succulent meats to the vibrant vegetarian options, all made with fresh, locally sourced ingredients. Jean-Pierre, a wine enthusiast, appreciated the extensive wine list, carefully selecting a bottle that perfectly complemented our meal. Sofia, ever the social butterfly, struck up a conversation with the friendly staff, learning about the history of the restaurant and the local culinary traditions.


Experience authentic Greek cuisine at Cardamo Oinomageireio in Makrinitsa - where tradition meets breathtaking views.

In the late afternoon, we made a stop at Amadryás in Tsagkarada, a charming shop filled with unique, handmade gifts. I love discovering local crafts, and this place was a treasure trove of pottery, textiles, and jewelry. I picked up a few small items as souvenirs, tokens of our time in Pelion to bring back to our friends in Montreal. Sofia found a beautiful piece of jewelry, a reminder of her adventures in Greece, while Jean-Pierre admired the intricate woodwork, appreciating the skill and artistry of the local craftsmen.


Discover unique, handmade gifts at Amadryás in Tsagkarada, where local craftsmanship meets warm hospitality.

As the sun began to set, we made our way to Chorefto for our final dinner at To Kima • Seaside Family Restaurant. The restaurant, located right by the sea, offered stunning views of the Aegean. The atmosphere was warm and inviting, perfect for a relaxed family meal. We feasted on fresh seafood, grilled to perfection, and traditional Greek salads, bursting with flavor. As we ate, we reminisced about our favorite moments from the trip, from hiking through the lush forests to swimming in the turquoise waters of the Aegean. It was a bittersweet moment, filled with gratitude for the experiences we’ve shared and a tinge of sadness that our adventure was coming to an end.


Discover seaside dining at To Kima - where fresh flavors meet breathtaking views in Chorefto's enchanting atmosphere.

Tomorrow, we begin our journey back to Montreal, carrying with us a wealth of memories and a renewed appreciation for the beauty and culture of Greece. This trip to Mount Pelion has been a reminder of the importance of family, the joy of exploration, and the power of travel to broaden our horizons. As I prepare to return to my life as a librarian, surrounded by books and stories, I know that the experiences we’ve had here will stay with me forever, enriching my perspective and inspiring my own storytelling. I am already looking forward to our next adventure, wherever it may take us.

Until then, arrivederci from Mount Pelion!

Reflecting on Pelion

As I sit here, penning down the final moments of our Pelion adventure, I am overwhelmed by a sense of gratitude. This trip was more than just a vacation; it was a journey of discovery, connection, and immense joy. From the serene parks to the hidden streams, every corner of this region has whispered stories of its rich history and vibrant culture.

Looking back, our visit to Saint Konstantinos Park stands out as a tranquil interlude amidst our explorations. The park, with its lush greenery and the gentle sea breeze, was a perfect spot for reflection. It reminded me of the importance of finding peace in nature, a practice I often neglect in the hustle of Montreal. Jean-Pierre, with his architect's eye, appreciated the park's design, noting how it seamlessly blended with the urban landscape. Sofia, always the social butterfly, enjoyed observing the local life, capturing candid moments of people enjoying their Sunday.

The Stream at Plakotoura, another highlight of our day, was a testament to the untouched beauty of Pelion. The sound of the flowing water and the vibrant flora created a sense of serenity that was truly captivating. It was a reminder of the simple pleasures in life, the joy of connecting with nature and the beauty of the natural world. Sofia's laughter as she waded in the stream was a melody I will carry with me always.

Our culinary experiences were equally memorable. KRITSA Restaurant, with its traditional Greek breakfast, was a delightful start to our day. The flavors of the local pastries and the strong Greek coffee transported me back to my childhood in Italy, reminding me of the importance of cherishing our culinary heritage. cardamo OINOMAGEIREIO, with its authentic Greek cuisine and stunning views, was a feast for the senses. The fresh, locally sourced ingredients and the extensive wine list showcased the region's culinary excellence. To Kima • Seaside Family Restaurant, our final dinner spot, was a perfect ending to our culinary journey, with its fresh seafood and warm, inviting atmosphere.

Shopping at Amadryás was a delightful experience, a chance to discover the local artistry and craftsmanship. The handmade gifts and souvenirs were not just items; they were tokens of our time in Pelion, each carrying a story of the region's culture and traditions.

As we prepare to leave Mount Pelion, I am filled with a sense of gratitude for the memories we've created, the bonds we've strengthened, and the experiences we've shared. This trip has been a reminder of the importance of family, the joy of exploration, and the power of travel to broaden our horizons. Until our next adventure, I will carry the spirit of Pelion with me, cherishing the lessons learned and the memories made.

Final Thoughts

Our Pelion adventure has come to an end, but the memories and experiences will stay with us forever. This trip was a perfect blend of relaxation, exploration, and cultural immersion. We discovered hidden gems, savored local flavors, and connected with the beauty of nature.

Saint Konstantinos Park offered a tranquil escape from the city bustle, allowing us to unwind and appreciate the simple joys of life. The Stream at Plakotoura was a testament to the untouched beauty of Pelion, with its lush greenery and crystal-clear waters.

Our culinary journey was a highlight of the trip, with each restaurant offering a unique and memorable experience. KRITSA Restaurant, cardamo OINOMAGEIREIO, and To Kima • Seaside Family Restaurant showcased the best of Greek cuisine, with fresh, locally sourced ingredients and warm, inviting atmospheres.

Amadryás was a treasure trove of local crafts, offering a glimpse into the region's artistic traditions. The handmade gifts and souvenirs were perfect reminders of our time in Pelion.

As we bid farewell to Mount Pelion, we carry with us a wealth of memories and a renewed appreciation for the beauty and culture of Greece. This trip has been a reminder of the importance of family, the joy of exploration, and the power of travel to broaden our horizons. Until our next adventure, we will cherish the spirit of Pelion, carrying its lessons and memories with us wherever we go.