Exploring the Enchanting Pelion: A Greek Adventure with My Spouse

A Day of Exploration and Serenity

Today was a beautiful blend of history, culture, and the tranquil charm of the Greek seaside. Lena and I set out to explore more of Pelion, eager to uncover the stories and sights that this region holds. It turned out to be a day filled with simple pleasures and profound reflections.

Our morning began in the heart of Makrinitsa, at the Sycamore of Peace Square. The village itself is known as the balcony of Pelion, and I could immediately see why. The views overlooking the Pagasetic Gulf were simply breathtaking. The square is dominated by an ancient sycamore tree, a silent witness to centuries of history. We took our time, wandering around the cobblestone paths and admiring the traditional stone houses. It was easy to imagine life here decades ago, with locals gathering under the tree's shade to share stories and laughter. I took several photos, trying to capture the serene atmosphere and the golden light that bathed the landscape.


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

Sometimes, the most profound experiences are found in the simplest of settings.

For breakfast, we decided to try O Christos. It was a cozy spot, and we enjoyed a traditional Greek breakfast. Lena had some scrambled eggs with fresh tomatoes, while I went for the classic Greek yogurt with honey and walnuts. Simple, but delicious, and the perfect way to start our day. Fuelled up, we continued our exploration.


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

Next on our list was the Home of Alexandros Papadiamantis. Although the actual house is located in Skiathos, we were keen to learn more about this influential Greek writer and his connection to the region. Papadiamantis, often considered the father of modern Greek literature, drew inspiration from the lives of the islanders. His stories, often set in the old capital of Kastro, reflect the hardships and the simple joys of the people. I found myself particularly moved by his novel, The Murderess, a bleak yet poignant tale set on Skiathos. Learning about his life and works gave me a deeper appreciation for the cultural richness of this part of Greece. It’s fascinating how one person's observations can capture the essence of an entire community.


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

After soaking in the cultural vibes, we drove to Chorefto for lunch. We chose To Kima • Seaside Family Restaurant. The name says it all – it's right by the sea! We sat on the terrace, enjoying the stunning view of the Aegean Sea as we savored some fresh seafood. Lena ordered grilled fish, and I opted for the seafood pasta. The food was delicious, and the atmosphere was incredibly relaxing. The gentle sound of the waves and the warm September sun made it a perfect afternoon. It was exactly the kind of laid-back experience we were hoping for.


Experience authentic Greek cuisine at To Kima, a charming seaside family restaurant offering fresh seafood and stunning views in Chorefto.

In the late afternoon, we headed to Agioi Saranda beach for dinner at Sarande Beach Bar Restaurant. This spot is known for its Mediterranean cuisine and its focus on local products. We started with some multivitamin salads made with ingredients straight from their garden. For the main course, Lena chose fresh fish, while I decided to try some local meat. Everything was incredibly fresh and flavorful. As the sun began to set, the sky was painted with the most amazing colors. It was the perfect backdrop for a wonderful meal.


Experience coastal dining at its finest at Sarande Beach Bar Restaurant - where delicious food meets stunning sea views.

To cap off the evening, we decided to check out Suita Fine Clubing. Now, I'm not usually one for clubbing, but we thought it would be fun to experience a bit of the local nightlife. It turned out to be a great decision. The atmosphere was lively, and the music was good. We enjoyed some cocktails and watched the locals dance. It was a fun way to end a day filled with more relaxed activities.


Discover the vibrant nightlife of Volos at Suita Fine Clubing, where music, dance, and great company come together for an unforgettable experience.

As I reflect on today, I realize how much I appreciate the balance we found between exploring historical sites and simply enjoying the natural beauty of Pelion. The Sycamore of Peace Square offered a moment of tranquility, while learning about Papadiamantis gave us a deeper connection to the local culture. And of course, the seaside dining experiences were simply delightful. It’s these kinds of days that make traveling so rewarding.

Tomorrow, we’re planning to head up to the Pelion Ski Centre [If it's not ski season, make it clear what you are going to do there, e.g. hike] []. I know it sounds a bit odd to visit a ski center in September, but I’ve heard the views from up there are incredible, and there are some great hiking trails. We're also thinking of checking out Pelion Activities, to see if we can find some more adventurous things to do. I’m looking forward to seeing what the mountains have to offer. For dinner, we’ve made a reservation at Archontiko Traditional Restaurant, hoping to try more of the local cuisine. Until then, goodnight from Pelion!

I am finding that traveling with Lena always brings a unique perspective to our adventures. Her background as a graphic designer makes her notice details that I might miss, and her enthusiasm for trying new things is contagious. I am grateful for her companionship and her willingness to explore the world with me.