Exploring the Enchanting Pelion: A Greek Adventure with My Spouse

Chugging Through History and Myth in Pelion

Our Pelion adventure has begun, and what a start it has been! Today was a day of immersing ourselves in the rich tapestry of history and mythology that this region so proudly boasts. From riding a vintage steam train through lush landscapes to walking in the footsteps of mythical creatures, Pelion has already captured my heart. Lena and I are excited to share every moment of this journey with you, hoping to inspire your own adventures.

Our day began with a hearty breakfast at Mountain Top Cafe - Pelion. It’s always a pleasure to start the day with a good meal, and this cafe certainly delivered. Fuelled up, we made our way to Ano Lehonia to catch the legendary Train of Pilio.


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

The Train of Pilio, or “Moutzouris” as the locals affectionately call it (meaning “smokey”), is a narrow-gauge railway that winds its way from Ano Lehonia to Milies. This isn't just any train ride; it's a journey back in time. The carriages are vintage, the engine is steam-powered, and the views are simply breathtaking. As we chugged along, the Pelion landscape unfolded before us in all its glory. Lush greenery, stone bridges, and quaint villages created a scene straight out of a storybook.

The train itself is a testament to engineering ingenuity. Built between 1892 and 1903, the railway was designed by Evaristo De Chirico, father of the famous painter Giorgio De Chirico. The route features arched bridges and tunnels, showcasing the remarkable craftsmanship of the era. One particularly memorable spot was the steel bridge of Taxiarhis, also known as “De Chirico's Bridge,” where the train tracks curve even though the bridge is straight.

It's not just a train ride; it's a journey back in time, chugging through the lush, hilly landscapes of the Pelion region in Greece.

The ride to Milies took about 90 minutes, a leisurely pace that allowed us to fully soak in the scenery. At the intermediate stop in Ano Gatzea, we had a brief pause to stretch our legs and admire the surroundings. Chatting with some locals, I learned about the train's history and its significance to the region. It’s amazing how much you can discover simply by striking up a conversation.

Arriving in Milies, we explored the charming village. Cobblestone streets led us to the central square, where we visited the church of Taxiarches and one of Greece's oldest libraries. The village exudes a sense of tranquility, making it a perfect spot to unwind and enjoy the simple pleasures of life. I couldn't resist picking up a few postcards to send to friends back in Berlin.

For lunch, we stopped at KRITSA Restaurant in Portaria. This restaurant is known for its traditional Pelion cuisine and warm hospitality. We savored local dishes made with fresh, seasonal ingredients, a true taste of Greece. Lena particularly enjoyed the Greek salad, while I couldn't get enough of the lamb. The service was excellent, and the atmosphere was cozy and inviting.

With our bellies full and spirits high, we set off to explore the Centaurs' Path.


Hike the Centaurs' Path in Volos: Where myth meets nature, offering stunning views and a tranquil escape into Greek legend and lush landscapes.

According to Greek mythology, Pelion was home to the Centaurs, creatures with the upper body of a human and the lower body of a horse. This hiking trail is said to be one of the paths they roamed, adding an air of mystique to our walk.

The Centaurs' Path is a relatively easy hike, perfect for families and casual walkers. The trail meanders through a lush forest, alongside a stream with small waterfalls. The scenery was simply magical, with tall trees providing shade and wooden bridges crossing the water. Even though it’s September, the weather was pleasant, and the shaded path kept us cool.

The path is well-marked, making it easy to follow. Along the way, we encountered a stone water fountain offering refreshing drinking water. It was the perfect spot to pause, take a deep breath, and soak in the tranquility of nature. The entire loop took us about 40 minutes, a refreshing and invigorating experience.

I couldn't help but imagine the Centaurs roaming these very paths centuries ago. It’s fascinating to think about the legends and myths that have shaped this region. Lena, ever the artist, was captivated by the play of light and shadow in the forest, capturing the scenes with her camera.

After our mythical hike, we took some time to browse Filokaliashandmadecreations, a local shop featuring handmade crafts [ITINERARY OF TODAY].


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

I always appreciate supporting local artisans, and this shop had a wonderful selection of unique souvenirs. Lena found a beautiful hand-painted ceramic bowl, while I picked up a small wooden carving of a centaur.

As the day drew to a close, we headed to Souarè Anelion Pelion for dinner [ITINERARY OF TODAY, 12].


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

This restaurant is known for its traditional Pelion cuisine and cozy atmosphere. We enjoyed a delicious meal of local specialties, savoring the flavors of the region. The restaurant is located in the central square of Anelion, providing a charming setting for an evening meal.

Reflecting on our first day in Pelion, I am struck by the seamless blend of history, mythology, and natural beauty. This region has a unique charm that is both captivating and inspiring. I’m so glad Lena and I decided to embark on this adventure together.

Tomorrow, we plan to visit the Pelion Cross of Jesus Observation Point and the coastal village of Manolas [ITINERARY OF TOMORROW]. I’m looking forward to more breathtaking views and cultural discoveries. Until then, good night from Pelion!

As I sit here writing this, I realize how much I appreciate these moments of reflection. Travel is not just about seeing new places; it’s about experiencing new cultures, connecting with people, and creating lasting memories. And so far, Pelion has exceeded all my expectations. I’m excited to see what tomorrow brings.

Before signing off, I must mention a funny incident that occurred during our train ride. A flock of sheep momentarily blocked the tracks, causing a brief delay. It was a quintessential Greek moment, and we couldn't help but laugh. These unexpected encounters are what make travel so unpredictable and memorable.

As we prepare for our second day, I am reminded of a quote by the Greek poet Constantine Cavafy:

“You will not find new lands, new seas. The sea is the same, its shores familiar. The city will follow you. You will walk the same streets. and age in the same neighborhoods; in these same houses you will grow gray.”

While Cavafy speaks of the inevitability of familiarity, I believe that travel allows us to see the world with fresh eyes, even when we return to familiar places. It’s about the journey, not just the destination. And our journey through Pelion has just begun. Goodnight!

We will be having breakfast at Tavern Pelion Geuseis Portaria, lunch at To Katofli tis Ketis and dinner at Loukoulos [ITINERARY OF TOMORROW].