Exploring the Enchanting Pelion: A Greek Adventure with My Spouse

Chugging Through History and Myth

Today was a day of delightful contrasts, blending the charm of a vintage railway with the mystique of ancient mythology. Lena and I set out to explore more of Pelion's hidden gems, and what we discovered was a perfect mix of nostalgia, natural beauty, and local culture. I was particularly excited to capture the essence of this region through my lens, hoping to share the magic with all of you.

Our day began in Ano Lehonia, where we boarded the legendary Train of Pilio. This narrow-gauge railway, affectionately known as Moutzouris (the smudger) for the black smoke it puffs out, promised a scenic journey through the heart of Pelion. As a software developer, I appreciate the engineering marvel of this railway, built between 1894 and 1903. It's a testament to human ingenuity, and I couldn't wait to experience it firsthand.


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

Before boarding, we enjoyed a hearty breakfast at Loukoulos. Though I know there is another Loukoulos in Chania, this one was closer to the train station. I opted for a traditional Greek breakfast, complete with yogurt, honey, and fresh fruit. Lena chose a savory pie, and we both savored the strong Greek coffee that set the perfect tone for our day. Fueled up and ready to go, we eagerly awaited the train's arrival.

The train itself is a relic of a bygone era, with vintage carriages that exude old-world charm. As it chugged along the tracks, we were transported back in time, surrounded by lush greenery, stone bridges, and quaint villages seemingly untouched by the modern world. The views were simply breathtaking, with every bend offering a new postcard-worthy vista. I couldn't resist snapping photos at every turn, trying to capture the essence of this enchanting landscape.

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 journey took us through olive groves, chestnut forests, and traditional stone bridges, offering glimpses into the rich natural beauty of the Pelion region. The Pelion train route from Ano Lehonia to Milies is about 15 km long and lasts for 90 minutes, with a 15-minute stop in Ano Gatzea. I found myself lost in thought, reflecting on the history of this railway and the countless stories it could tell. I could imagine Giorgio de Chirico, the famous painter whose father supervised the railway's construction, finding inspiration in these very landscapes.

Arriving in Milies, we disembarked and took some time to explore the village. Milies is known for its traditional architecture, cozy tavernas, and laid-back vibe. We wandered through the stone-paved streets, admiring the well-preserved houses and soaking in the atmosphere. It was tempting to linger longer, but our itinerary called for another adventure: 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.

After our train adventure, we drove towards Portaria, eager to hike the Centaurs' Path. According to Greek mythology, centaurs – creatures with the upper body of a human and the lower body of a horse – roamed the woods of Mount Pelion. The Centaurs' Path promised a walk through the mystical realm of these legendary beings, and I was intrigued to see what awaited us.

The trail starts near Portaria, and it's a relatively short and easy hike, perfect for a leisurely afternoon stroll. As we entered the forest, we were immediately enveloped in a world of lush greenery, with the sound of running water filling the air. The path follows a stream, leading us through an almost secret woods behind the village. Wooden bridges crossed the water at various points, adding to the fairytale-like atmosphere.

Lena was particularly captivated by the scenery, and I must admit, I found myself equally enchanted. The sunlight filtering through the trees created a magical effect, and the air was fresh and clean. We passed small waterfalls and tranquil pools, each more picturesque than the last. It was easy to imagine centaurs lurking just out of sight, their hooves echoing through the forest.

The path is well-marked with red circles on stones, ensuring we didn't stray from the route. The hike isn't difficult, making it accessible for everyone. I appreciated the opportunity to stretch my legs and breathe in the fresh mountain air after our train journey. At the end of the hike, we found a stone water fountain with fresh, drinkable water, a welcome sight after our walk.

Before dinner, we stopped by Filokaliashandmadecreations, a local shop I had read about, featuring handmade crafts. Lena found a beautiful, hand-painted silk scarf that caught her eye, and I picked up a small, wooden carving of a centaur as a memento of our hike. Supporting local artisans is important to us, and it felt good to contribute to the community in this small way.


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

As evening approached, we made our way to Tavern Pelion Geuseis in Portaria for dinner. This taverna is known for its authentic Greek cuisine and warm, inviting atmosphere. We started with a selection of meze, including dolmades and tzatziki, before indulging in the house specialty: moussaka. The food was delicious, and the service was impeccable. The staff was friendly and attentive, making us feel right at home.


Experience the heart of Greek cuisine at Tavern Pelion Geuseis in Portaria - where every meal tells a story.

From the tavern, we enjoyed stunning views of Volos, twinkling in the distance. The ambiance was perfect, and we lingered over our meal, savoring the flavors of Pelion and reflecting on the day's adventures. It was the perfect ending to a day filled with history, mythology, and natural beauty.

Tomorrow, we plan to explore Saint Konstantinos Park and the Clock Tower [sic] [see Itinerary of Tomorrow]. I'm also looking forward to trying Mountain Top Cafe for breakfast and perhaps unwinding at Grooove bar in the evening [see Itinerary of Tomorrow]. As our trip nears its end, I'm determined to make the most of every moment, capturing the essence of Pelion and sharing it with all of you.

As I sit here, writing this blog post, I'm filled with a sense of gratitude for the experiences we've had today. Pelion has a way of capturing your heart, and I'm already looking forward to returning someday. For now, I'll cherish the memories of our whimsical day on rails and mythical trails, and I'll continue to share our adventures with you, one blog post at a time. Good night from Pelion!

Pelion continues to surprise and delight with its blend of the traditional and the magical. It's a place where history and myth intertwine, creating an atmosphere that's both enchanting and unforgettable. I am so glad to share this experience with Lena, and I am equally grateful to share it with you, my readers.