Exploring the Hidden Gems of Pelion with Friends

A Fond Farewell to Pelion

As our Pelion adventure draws to a close, I find myself reflecting on the incredible experiences we've shared over the past nine days. From the lush mountain trails to the crystal-clear waters of the Aegean, Pelion has truly captured my heart. Today, we set out to explore one last hidden gem, savor the local flavors, and soak in the stunning seaside views before heading back to Berlin. It’s bittersweet, but I’m determined to make the most of every moment.

Our final day in Pelion began with a hearty breakfast at To Katofli tis Ketis in Katochori. Lena had read rave reviews about their cheese pies with honey, and they did not disappoint. The mix of savory cheese and sweet honey was the perfect way to start the day. Sofia, of course, loved the honey the most! I opted for something more traditional – a Greek salad with a generous slab of feta. It was simple, fresh, and exactly what I needed to fuel up for the day's adventures. The restaurant itself had a cozy, welcoming atmosphere, and the staff were incredibly friendly. It felt like a true taste of Greek hospitality.


Experience authentic Greek cuisine at To Katofli tis Ketis in Katochori—where every dish tells a story.

After breakfast, we drove to Manolas, a charming seaside village known for its tranquil beauty. The drive itself was stunning, with winding roads offering panoramic views of the coastline. As we approached Manolas, we were greeted by the sight of colorful fishing boats bobbing gently in the harbor. The village exuded a sense of peace and authenticity, a feeling that took me back to my childhood in New Mexico, where life moved at a slower, more deliberate pace.


Discover the charm of Ag. Kiriaki with fresh seafood and local flavors at Manolas – a culinary delight by the sea.

The best journeys answer questions that in the beginning you never thought to ask.

We spent the morning exploring Manolas, wandering through its narrow streets and admiring the traditional architecture. The village felt untouched by time, a hidden gem far from the bustling tourist crowds. We stumbled upon a small, family-run taverna where we stopped for a refreshing glass of lemonade. The owner, a kind-faced woman with a warm smile, shared stories about the village's history and its close-knit community. It was moments like these that made our trip so special, connecting with locals and experiencing the true essence of Pelion.

For lunch, we headed to Armonia Restaurant in Agios Ioannis, a place recommended by several locals for its authentic Greek cuisine and stunning sea views. We managed to snag a table on the terrace, overlooking the azure waters of the Aegean. The menu was filled with traditional dishes, and we decided to share a few different plates. The grilled octopus was a standout, tender and flavorful, while the moussaka was rich and satisfying. Lena particularly enjoyed the fresh seafood, a testament to the restaurant's commitment to using locally sourced ingredients. Sofia, ever the adventurous eater, surprised us all by devouring a plate of calamari. The combination of delicious food, breathtaking views, and the gentle sea breeze made for an unforgettable dining experience.


Discover authentic Greek cuisine at Armonia Restaurant in Agios Ioannis, where every meal is a celebration of local flavors and stunning views.

In the late afternoon, as the sun began to dip towards the horizon, we found ourselves at Grappa Vino & Aperitivo, a stylish bar in Volos known for its sophisticated drinks and relaxed atmosphere. While I opted for a glass of local wine, Lena decided to try one of their signature cocktails, a concoction of Greek herbs and citrus fruits. The bar had a cool, urban vibe, a stark contrast to the traditional villages we had visited earlier in the day. It was a perfect spot to unwind and reflect on our Pelion adventure. We chatted about our favorite moments, from hiking through the lush forests to swimming in the crystal-clear waters. We reminisced about the friendly locals we had met and the delicious food we had savored. It was clear that Pelion had left an indelible mark on all of us.


Discover Grappa Vino & Aperitivo in Volos: a delightful wine bar offering exquisite local wines and appetizing dishes in a warm, inviting setting.

Our final dinner in Pelion was at Akti, a seaside restaurant in Agios Ioannis known for its modern Greek cuisine and stunning location. The restaurant was buzzing with energy, a mix of locals and tourists all eager to enjoy a memorable meal. We started with a selection of appetizers, including a flavorful tuna tartare and some crispy fried zucchini flowers. For our main courses, I chose the grilled sea bream, perfectly cooked and seasoned, while Lena opted for the shrimp giouvetsi, a traditional Greek pasta dish with a rich tomato sauce. Sofia, of course, went for the spaghetti with meatballs, a classic that never fails to please. As we savored our meal, we watched the sun sink below the horizon, painting the sky in vibrant hues of orange and pink. It was a magical moment, a perfect ending to our Pelion adventure.


Experience exquisite Mediterranean dining with stunning sea views at Akti in Agios Ioannis.

As I sit here tonight, writing this blog post, I can't help but feel a sense of gratitude for the experiences we've had in Pelion. This trip has been more than just a vacation; it's been a journey of discovery, a chance to connect with nature, and an opportunity to immerse ourselves in a rich and vibrant culture. I'm grateful for the time we've spent together as a family, exploring new places and creating lasting memories. And I'm especially grateful for the warm hospitality of the Greek people, who have welcomed us with open arms and made us feel like we were truly at home.

Tomorrow, we begin our journey back to Berlin, but I know that a part of me will always remain in Pelion. I'll carry with me the memories of the stunning landscapes, the delicious food, and the friendly faces. And I'll cherish the lessons I've learned about slowing down, appreciating the simple things in life, and connecting with the world around me.

Pelion, thank you for everything. Until we meet again.

As this is the last day of our Pelion adventure, there is no itinerary for tomorrow. It's time to head back to Berlin, filled with memories of our incredible journey. I hope you've enjoyed following along, and I look forward to sharing more travel adventures with you soon!

It's time to say goodbye to the beaches of Pelion and head back to Berlin. I will never forget the moments we shared here with friends and family. I hope to come back soon!