Exploring the Enchanting Pelion: A Greek Adventure with My Spouse

Day 8: Pelion's Panoramic Views: A Day of Heights and Seaside Bliss

Discover Pelion's stunning vistas and coastal charm. From mountain viewpoints to seaside bars, an unforgettable day of Greek beauty.

Post Image

Chasing the Best Views in Pelion


Today was all about seeing Pelion from above and relaxing by the sea. Lena and I set out to explore some of the most scenic viewpoints this peninsula has to offer. It's days like these that remind me why we chose Pelion for our little escape – the blend of dramatic landscapes and tranquil coastal spots is simply irresistible.

Our day began with a hearty breakfast at Dovas Home Cooking in Portaria. It was a cozy start, with the kind of home-cooked goodness that sets you up perfectly for a day of exploring. I opted for a traditional Greek yogurt with honey and nuts, while Lena had a savory pie filled with local cheeses. Fuelled and ready, we headed towards our first destination: the Pelion Cross of Jesus Observation Point.

Discover breathtaking panoramic views from the Pelion Cross of Jesus Observation Point, a serene escape on the enchanting Pelion Peninsula.
Discover breathtaking panoramic views from the Pelion Cross of Jesus Observation Point, a serene escape on the enchanting Pelion Peninsula.
The drive up was an adventure in itself, navigating winding roads with glimpses of the Pagasetic Gulf sparkling in the distance. As we climbed higher, the air grew crisper, and the views became more and more impressive. Reaching the observation point, we were greeted by a panoramic vista that stretched out before us in every direction. The landscape was breath-taking, and the views were incredible. You could see the rolling hills of Pelion cascading down to the sea, dotted with charming villages and lush greenery. I took out my camera, trying to capture the vastness and beauty of the scene, but as always, photos just can't quite do it justice.

Lena and I spent some time simply soaking it all in, breathing the fresh mountain air, and feeling grateful for moments like these. We chatted about how different this was from our usual Berlin life, the concrete jungle replaced by this serene, natural paradise. It’s funny, isn’t it? Back in Berlin, I'm all about optimizing code and solving technical puzzles. Here, I’m just trying to capture the perfect snapshot of a landscape that’s been millions of years in the making.

Our next stop was the View point Portaria.

Discover the stunning landscapes and serene beauty of the Portaria Viewpoint, a must-visit destination for all tourists exploring Greece.
Discover the stunning landscapes and serene beauty of the Portaria Viewpoint, a must-visit destination for all tourists exploring Greece.
This spot offered a different perspective, closer to the village, with a charming view of the traditional architecture nestled amidst the greenery. We parked the car and took a short walk to the viewpoint, enjoying the quaint atmosphere of Portaria. From here, we could see the terracotta roofs and stone houses, a testament to Pelion's rich history and architectural heritage. I imagined what life must be like for the locals, living in this peaceful haven, far removed from the hustle and bustle of modern cities. It felt like stepping back in time, a welcome change from the fast-paced world we usually inhabit.

The beauty of Pelion lies not just in its stunning landscapes, but also in its ability to transport you to a simpler, more peaceful way of life.


By lunchtime, we were ready for a hearty meal. We drove to O Christos for lunch.

Discover O Christos in Agios Ioannis for an authentic seafood experience blending fresh flavors with breathtaking views of the Aegean Sea.
Discover O Christos in Agios Ioannis for an authentic seafood experience blending fresh flavors with breathtaking views of the Aegean Sea.
We both ordered the local specialty, spetzofai, a hearty sausage and pepper stew that warmed us from the inside out. The flavors were bold and rustic, a perfect representation of Pelion's culinary traditions. I appreciated the simplicity of the dish, made with fresh, local ingredients and cooked with love. It was the kind of meal that sticks to your ribs and leaves you feeling completely satisfied. While O Christos appears not to have any reviews currently, we found the food to be delicious.

With our bellies full, we decided to head to the coast for some afternoon relaxation. The September sun was still warm, but the sea breeze provided a refreshing coolness. We made our way to Kenta Seaside Bar, located on the coast of Ag. Ioannis Mouresiou.

Discover the vibrant atmosphere and stunning views at Kenta Seaside Bar, the perfect retreat for relaxation and fun on the Aegean coast.
Discover the vibrant atmosphere and stunning views at Kenta Seaside Bar, the perfect retreat for relaxation and fun on the Aegean coast.
Arriving at Kenta Seaside Bar, we were immediately drawn to its laid-back vibe and stunning location. The bar is nestled right on the beach, with panoramic views of the Aegean Sea stretching out before us. We found a cozy spot on the outdoor terrace, sinking into comfortable chairs as we gazed at the crystal-clear water. The atmosphere was lively yet relaxed, with a mix of locals and tourists enjoying the beautiful surroundings.

I ordered a refreshing freddo espresso, while Lena opted for a local white wine. As we sipped our drinks, we watched the waves gently lapping against the shore, the sun creating a shimmering effect on the water. It was the perfect setting to unwind and soak in the beauty of the Greek seaside. We chatted about our favorite moments from the trip so far, reminiscing about the charming villages we had explored and the delicious food we had tasted. Lena mentioned how much she enjoyed the local crafts, and we made a mental note to check out Filokaliashandmadecreations tomorrow, a shop we plan to visit during our trip on Saturday.

As the afternoon wore on, we decided to take a dip in the sea. The water was cool and invigorating, washing away any lingering stress or fatigue. We swam for a while, laughing and splashing like kids, before returning to our spot on the terrace. Drying off in the sun, we felt completely rejuvenated and at peace. It's amazing how the simple act of being by the sea can have such a profound effect on your well-being.

Later, as the sun began to set, we decided to stay at Kenta Seaside Bar for a bit longer. The sky was ablaze with vibrant colors, painting a breathtaking masterpiece across the horizon. We ordered some light snacks, savoring the delicious flavors as we watched the sun slowly disappear into the sea. The atmosphere at the bar became even more magical as the night drew closer, with soft music playing in the background and the gentle sound of the waves creating a soothing symphony.

For dinner, we ventured to Agora 1955 in Portaria, a restaurant housed in a retro building made of stone and wood.

Discover Agora 1955 in Portaria: Where traditional Greek flavors meet modern culinary artistry in an inviting atmosphere.
Discover Agora 1955 in Portaria: Where traditional Greek flavors meet modern culinary artistry in an inviting atmosphere.
The place had a charming, rustic vibe, and we were excited to try their locally sourced delicacies. We shared a selection of mezes, small plates of traditional Greek dishes, each bursting with flavor. The tzatziki was creamy and refreshing, the dolmades were delicate and flavorful, and the saganaki was perfectly crispy and salty. We also tried their famous donuts covered with Greek honey and homemade ice cream. To accompany our meal, we chose a bottle of local wine from their extensive cellar, a perfect complement to the rich and diverse flavors of the food.

After dinner, we took a leisurely stroll through the village, enjoying the cool evening air and the twinkling lights of the tavernas. The atmosphere was lively and festive, with locals and tourists mingling and laughing together. We stopped for a nightcap at a small bar, savoring the last moments of our day before heading back to our guesthouse.

Reflecting on the day, I realized how much Pelion had captivated us with its natural beauty and authentic charm. From the panoramic views at the Pelion Cross of Jesus Observation Point to the relaxing vibes at Kenta Seaside Bar, every moment had been a delight. It’s experiences like these that make travel so rewarding, allowing us to disconnect from our daily routines and reconnect with ourselves and the world around us.

Tomorrow, we are planning to explore the Train of Pilio and Centaurs' path. I'm particularly excited about the train ride, as I've heard it's a unique and scenic way to experience the region. But for now, it's time to rest and recharge, ready for another day of adventure in this enchanting corner of Greece.

As I sit here writing, I can't help but feel a sense of gratitude for the simple pleasures in life: good food, good company, and breathtaking views. These are the moments that make our journey worthwhile, creating memories that will last a lifetime.
Go to day 7 Adventures Above and Beyond: Exploring Pelion's Peaks and Natural Treasures
Go to day 9 A Whimsical Day on Rails and Mythical Trails in Pelion
trip photo
Exploring the Enchanting Pelion: A Greek Adventure with My Spouse

Join us on a journey to Pelion, Greece, where we'll explore beautiful landscapes, rich culture, and enjoy a 12-day adventure with my spouse.

View full trip

Meet this Featured Explorer

Jan Kovar
  • Occupation icon Occupation: Software Developer
  • Country icon Country: Germany
  • Age icon Age: 38

Servus! I'm Jan Kovar, a software developer by day and a passionate travel blogger by night. Originally from Czechia, I now call Berlin home. Together with my wife, Lena, I explore Europe and beyond, seeking out budget-friendly cultural experiences and off-the-beaten-path destinations. Through my blog, I share practical tips, cultural insights, and personal stories to inspire young adults and millennials to travel more sustainably and experience the world in an authentic way. Join me as I uncover the hidden gems of Europe, one city, one hike, and one beer garden at a time!

Interests:
  • Technology
  • Photography
  • History
  • European Culture
  • Sustainable Living
More about Jan Kovar

Find Similar Travel Diaries

Explore locations from this diary

  • Pelion Cross of Jesus Observation Point

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

  • View point portaria

    Discover the stunning landscapes and serene beauty of the Portaria Viewpoint, a must-visit destination for all tourists exploring Greece.

  • Dovas Home Cooking

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

  • O Christos

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

  • Agora 1955

    Discover Agora 1955 in Portaria: Where traditional Greek flavors meet modern culinary artistry in an inviting atmosphere.

  • Kenta Seaside Bar

    Discover the vibrant atmosphere and stunning views at Kenta Seaside Bar, the perfect retreat for relaxation and fun on the Aegean coast.

Our editors` picks of the latest and greatest in travel - delivered to your inbox weekly
Share:

Select Currency