Exploring the Hidden Gems of Pelion, Greece with Friends

Adieu, Pelion!

As our Pelion adventure draws to a close, I find myself filled with a bittersweet mix of emotions. This trip has been nothing short of magical, a true immersion into the heart of Greece. Today, our final day, we set out to soak in every last bit of this stunning peninsula, knowing that we'll carry these memories with us long after we've returned to Lyon.

Our day began with a hearty breakfast at the Mountain Top Cafe - Pelion. It was the perfect spot to fuel up for our final day of exploration. The cafe lived up to its name, offering breathtaking panoramic views that stretched across the mountainous landscape. Sipping on strong Greek coffee, Jean-Pierre and I chatted about our favorite moments from the trip. He reminisced about the hidden beaches we discovered, while I couldn't stop thinking about the delicious food we'd devoured. It's funny how food and scenery can intertwine to create such vivid memories.

After breakfast, we made our way to the Pelion Cross of Jesus Observation Point. The drive itself was an adventure, winding along narrow mountain roads with hairpin turns that tested even Jean-Pierre's expert driving skills. But the views along the way were more than worth it. Olive groves and vineyards carpeted the hillsides, and the air was thick with the scent of pine and wildflowers.

Reaching the observation point, we were greeted by a sight that truly took our breath away. The panoramic vista encompassed the entire Pelion peninsula, with the Aegean Sea stretching out to the horizon. The cross itself stood as a silent sentinel, a symbol of faith and resilience. We spent a good hour simply taking it all in, snapping photos, and etching the scene into our memories. It was a moment of quiet contemplation, a chance to reflect on the beauty and tranquility of this special place. I felt grateful for the opportunity to experience such awe-inspiring scenery with my closest friends.


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

Sometimes, the most profound travel experiences are the ones that leave you speechless, filled with a sense of wonder and gratitude.

Next on our itinerary was the charming village of Manolas. We wandered through its narrow, winding streets, admiring the traditional architecture and soaking in the local atmosphere. The stone houses, adorned with colorful flowers, seemed to whisper stories of generations past. We stumbled upon a tiny taverna where a group of locals were engaged in a lively game of backgammon, their laughter echoing through the alleyways. It was moments like these that made me feel truly connected to the heart and soul of Greece.


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

For lunch, we stopped at Synantisi, a restaurant in Kissos known for its traditional Pelion cuisine. Synantisi, meaning meeting in Greek, certainly lived up to its name. The family-run restaurant exuded warmth and hospitality, and we were greeted like old friends. We indulged in a feast of local specialties, including spetzofai (a hearty sausage and pepper stew) and giant baked beans, each dish bursting with flavor and cooked with love. Mrs. Ria's appetizers were a particular highlight, showcasing the freshest local ingredients. The meal was a true celebration of Pelion's culinary heritage, a delicious reminder of the simple pleasures in life.


Experience authentic Greek cuisine at Synantisi in Kissos - where every dish tells a story.

After lunch, we couldn't resist a bit of souvenir shopping at Peritechno. This charming shop was a treasure trove of local crafts and artisanal products. I picked up a hand-painted ceramic bowl as a memento of our trip, while Jean-Pierre found a beautiful leather-bound journal to record his thoughts and reflections. Supporting local artisans is something I always try to do when traveling; it's a way to give back to the community and bring home a piece of the local culture.


Explore the enchanting Peritechno in Makrinitsa, where unique gifts and local treasures await in a whimsical setting.

As the sun began to dip below the horizon, we made our way to Milies for our farewell dinner at the Salkimi tavern. This restaurant, recommended by several locals, promised an authentic Pelion dining experience, and it certainly delivered. The tavern was located just before the village square, distinguished by its wooden exterior and the enticing aromas wafting from the kitchen. Inside, the decor was rustic and charming, with grape vines (salkimi in Asia Minor) adorning the ceiling.


Experience authentic Greek cuisine at Salkimi in Pelion—where traditional flavors meet warm hospitality.

Antonis, the owner, greeted us with a warm smile and regaled us with stories of his family's history in the restaurant. We feasted on dishes inspired by Asia Minor cuisine, prepared with locally sourced ingredients and a whole lot of love. The butcher, a local meat specialty, was a particular highlight, as were the handmade pies filled with seasonal greens. The atmosphere was convivial and festive, and we lingered over our meal, savoring each bite and each moment. It was the perfect ending to our Pelion adventure, a celebration of friendship, food, and unforgettable experiences.

As I write this, back in our cozy guesthouse, I can't help but feel a pang of sadness that our trip is coming to an end. But I also feel an overwhelming sense of gratitude for the memories we've made, the sights we've seen, and the people we've met. Pelion has captured a piece of my heart, and I know I'll be back someday to explore its hidden corners and soak in its natural beauty.

Tomorrow, we'll be heading back to Athens to catch our flight back to Lyon. It's always a little tough to leave a place that has felt like home, but I'm excited to return to my cozy apartment and share my stories with friends and family. And of course, I can't wait to start planning our next adventure! Until then, adieu, Pelion! You've been a dream come true.

Before I close, I must recount a funny incident from today. While at Peritechno, Jean-Pierre attempted to haggle for a small olive wood carving. The shopkeeper, a sweet old woman with a twinkle in her eye, simply chuckled and said, My dear, in Pelion, we bargain with smiles, not prices! Jean-Pierre, defeated but amused, ended up paying full price, but we both walked away with a good laugh and a charming story to tell.

And speaking of stories, I overheard a fascinating tale at the Salkimi tavern. Antonis, the owner, told us about a local legend that claims the mountain is home to ancient centaurs. While I'm not sure I believe it, it certainly added a touch of magic and mystery to our dining experience. It's these little anecdotes and local myths that make traveling so enriching and memorable.

On a more practical note, I did manage to misplace my travel adapter somewhere along the way today. It's a minor inconvenience, but a reminder to always double-check my packing list. Luckily, Jean-Pierre had an extra one, so we were able to charge our phones and cameras. It's always a good idea to travel prepared, but sometimes, even the best-laid plans go awry. It's all part of the adventure, right?

As I reflect on this trip, I'm struck by how much Pelion has to offer. From its stunning landscapes and charming villages to its delicious cuisine and warm hospitality, it's a destination that truly has something for everyone. Whether you're a seasoned traveler or a first-time explorer, I highly recommend adding Pelion to your bucket list. You won't be disappointed!