From Parnassos to Ziria, Mainalo and Helmos, the 4 ski resorts closest to Athens await us for getaways against a white backdrop - Everything you need to know before you decide to visit them
Its that time of year when the ski resorts take center stage and make snow lovers want to head for the mountains. The slopes are laid with fresh snow to welcome the devoted - and not only - to skiing and winter sports, while the villages near the resorts fill with people eager to enjoy alpine, all-white landscapes.
If you’re among those who don’t want to venture far from Athens, whether for a day trip or a satisfying weekend, the following ski resorts are ideal for you.
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Parnassos
The Parnassos Ski Center, the largest and most advanced in Greece in terms of organization and infrastructure, is located at 1.640-2.260 meters, in the areas of Kellaria and Fterolakka. It boasts a total of 23 pistes, 7 ski routes and 7 connecting trails, with an overall length of 34 km. Descents start at 2.260 m. and reach down to 1.640 m., with individual lengths ranging from 300 m. to 4 km. Winter sports enthusiasts will find a run to match their preferred difficulty and skill level. Those seeking adventure and fun can opt for one of the off-piste black routes with truly deep snow and plenty of adrenaline, or pay a visit to the Snow-Funpark at Kellaria. There are also cafes, restaurants, ski schools and rental shops. The Parnassos Ski Center is 24 km. from Arachova. See more here
Nearby excursions
- The day continues in Arachova, one of Greece’s most beloved winter destinations. Lakka Square is the ultimate meeting point, with shops and all-day hangouts for coffee, sweets and drinks.
- At a distance of 10 km. from Arachova, Livadi is a small, almost town-like place with pretty chalets, traditional stone-built villas, tavernas and cafes.
- If you’re up for hiking or have a 4x4 vehicle, include the Corycian Cave in your explorations, an impressive cavern above Livadi at 1.360 m., where you can admire natural sculptures of stalactites and stalagmites.
- With Arachova as your base, depending on the weather and your mood, you can visit Delphi, Agoriani, Amfikleia, Polydroso and Chrisso.
Kalavryta
When the landscape turns white, the streets of Kalavryta and the surrounding villages fill with skiers who come to enjoy one of the best ski centers in Greece. The Helmos Ski Center is among the country’s most popular and best organized, with thousands of visitors each year. It lies 14 km. from Kalavryta on the northwestern side of Helmos, at 1.700-2.340 meters. Access from Kalavryta is always easy and especially scenic, through the fir forest. There are a total of 8 lifts and 13 pistes covering all levels of difficulty, with an overall length of 20 km. It features a chalet and ski schools, and it’s a favorite among snowboarders. See more here
Nearby excursions
- The central pedestrian street of Kalavryta buzzes with life, with atmospheric cafe-bars, shops selling local products, and tavernas whose aromas will make your mouth water.
- Visit the area’s historic monasteries, the Monastery of Agia Lavra (home to the banner of the 1821 fighters’ oath-taking) and the Monastery of Mega Spilaio, one of the oldest in Greece.
- At 17 km. from Kalavryta, you’ll find one of nature’s most wondrous creations, the famed Cave of the Lakes with its 13 successive stepped lakes.
- Take a ride on the legendary Odontotos rack railway through the Vouraikos Gorge, to experience the most enchanting train route (and one of the world’s most beautiful according to international lists).
Mainalo
The Mainalo Ski Center is set on the Ostrakina plateau, at 1.600 m., beneath the mountain’s highest peak (1.981 m.). It is 162 km. from Athens and 30 km. from Tripoli. It’s ideal for learning to ski and for snow play. The resort has 7 pistes and three lifts. The most difficult run (Voreini) lies to the right of the central drag lift and is 600 m. long. For most of its length it is black and turns red near the end. There is also a special park for snowmobiles, a slope set up for snowtubes, a chalet, a canteen, a ski school and a shop. More information here
Nearby excursions
- The surrounding area invites endless strolls through traditional villages: Vytina, Stemnitsa, Dimitsana, Levidi, Alonistaina, Lagadia, Valtesiniko, and more. Every village on Mainalo has its own unique story to tell.
- Nature lovers can explore the Lousios River and the Menalon Trail, which stretches for 75 km., passing through Arcadia’s historic settlements.
- In the Lousios Gorge, the Moni Filosofou and the Moni Prodromou offer absolute tranquility and mesmerizing views.
Ziria
On the plateau of Mount Ziria, at 1.500 meters, just 10 kilometers from Trikala Corinthias, lies the Ziria Ski Center. It is one of the country’s newer ski areas (opened in 2007), the closest to Attica, and ideal for beginners and families with children who want to take their first steps in skiing. Activities include sledding, rides across the plateau on snow machines (snowmobile) and two ski runs: a beginner slope with a drag lift (baby lift), with a total length of 150 meters, as well as another slope with graded sections served by a drag lift (platter), with a total length of 400 meters. See more here
Nearby excursions
- Set at 1,000 meters altitude in a beautiful landscape, Trikala Corinthias consists of three neighborhoods — Kato, Mesaia and Ano. It’s the largest village on Ziria’s eastern side, a very well-organized mountain destination with many accommodation options for every taste.
- For relaxing nature outings, be sure to include a visit to the artificial Lake Doxa, near the village of Feneos. The scenery is magical in every season.
- The area’s other famous - since antiquity - lake is the mythical Stymphalia. This superb wetland hosts more than 143 bird species and is part of the Natura 2000 program.
Contact the ski centers to get better informed about the weather conditions prevailing at the place you want to visit. Especially on days when snowfall is forecast, have your chains ready for use.
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