Five destinations near Thessaloniki for autumn getaways that blend nature and tradition.
Thessaloniki is a city with a thousand faces that, no matter how many times you visit, you never get enough of. But if you have a few extra days at your disposal, it is worth adding a short excursion to its nearby destinations to your schedule. Traditional settlements, impressive waterfalls, serene lakes and enchanting landscapes await just a breath away from Thessaloniki for blissful getaways. We suggest five destinations and you choose.
Lake Kerkini: A watery paradise
At a distance of 40 km from the city of Serres and about 100 km from Thessaloniki, you will find one of the most beautiful places in Greece. The magnificent Lake Kerkini was born from a dam created in 1932 and today is a highly protected wetland and a landscape of rare beauty with views of Mount Beles and the Serres valley. Nature makes the journey here unforgettable. The riparian vegetation with riverside forests of wild willows, the vast water lilies that float, the great variety of fish, the herds of water buffalo splashing on the shores and the wonderful horizon from the mountain ranges of Mount Beles and the Krousia give the place a unique allure.
Observe the rich birdlife and take a boat ride with the traditional «plaves» to see the beauties of the lake up close. You can also go horseback riding, mountain biking, hiking and 4x4 routes. A short distance away, Ano Poroia awaits you, one of the liveliest villages in the area, with unique views of Lake Kerkini, lovely guesthouses and good food.
Naoussa: The «City of Wine»
Built on the foothills of Eastern Vermio, 90 km from Thessaloniki, Naoussa is one of the most beautiful cities of Macedonia. With a great winemaking tradition, traditional neighborhoods with distinctive character, wonderful countryside around the city, historic sights and two ski resorts a short distance away, it offers unique experiences to those who love getaways with an emphasis on nature and flavor. The Arapitsa River that crosses the city creates lush green scenery, small waterfalls and ideal settings for endless walks.
A stroll through the neighborhoods of Alonia, Pouliana and Batania will take you into the past of the city, while it is worth visiting the Municipal Park, near Karatasou Square, with the ample view over the fertile plain of Imathia. At a distance of 3 km from the city lies the Agios Nikolaos Grove, which has been declared a landscape of outstanding natural beauty. It is a verdant expanse that offers a unique escape setting for the whole family. Within easy reach of the city are beautiful villages that are worth a visit: Arkochori, Giannakochori and Rodochori. Put on youritinerary a visit to one of the renowned wineries of Naoussa to learn the story behind the famous wines of the region.
Edessa: In the city of waters
From Thessaloniki, Edessa, the «watery city» of Northern Greece, is just 95 kilometers away (about 1½ hours). The capital of Pella has indelibly linked its name with its waterfalls, which are located in a unique geopark with cobbled lanes, stone bridges and wonderful views, to the northeast of the city. Their natural creator is the Edessaios River, whose waters cross the city before rushing down the waterfalls. The largest and most impressive waterfall, Karanos, drops its waters from a height of 70 meters, with power and force, creating a dense cloud of droplets that cool the atmosphere.
The other jewel of Edessa is the traditional settlement of Varosi with the old mansions. The distinctive atmosphere of the neighborhood is enhanced by the old Byzantine churches of the Dormition of the Virgin and of Saints Peter and Paul, built in the 14th century and with interesting frescoes.
Pozar Thermal Baths: The spa of nature
The Pozar Thermal Baths are located in the regional unit of Pella, 13 km from Aridaia and 109 km from Thessaloniki. The therapeutic hot waters, with a steady temperature of 37 degrees Celsius, have been bubbling here for thousands of years from the mountains, creating an impressive landscape of mountain and forest. The springs emerge at an elevation of 360-390 meters and are created by rainwater that infiltrates the ground, reaches great depth and, after being heated, rises higher enriched with minerals and other beneficial ingredients.
The area is organized with hotels, restaurants and changing rooms, so that you have all the amenities around you. In the wider area it is worth visiting the gorge of the Baths (an ideal choice for walks or mountaineering) and the speleological park.
Olympus: In the villages of the mountain of the gods
The impressive elevation (2,918 m.), the unique natural landscapes and its mythical charm make Olympus a pole of attraction for thousands of visitors from every corner of the world. On the mountain of the gods you will find villages of singular beauty within magnificent nature, which are ideal bases for enjoying wandering along the slopes of the mountain and discovering its beauties. A classic base for exploringOlympusis Litochoro, at the foot of its eastern side, at a distance of 25 km from Katerini. Nature lovers can visit the gorge of the Enipeas River along an impressive route starting from the Mills, at an elevation of 400 m.
The jewel-village of the area is Palaios Panteleimonas. Nestled on the slopes of Lower Olympus, at an elevation of about 500 meters and a short distance from the sea, this «balcony» village is designated a traditional settlement as it is one of the finest examples of traditional Macedonian architecture in Northern Greece. A square with centuries old plane trees, the restored old school, stone houses with red tiled roofs, stone paved cobbled lanes and the beautiful natural scenery create a unique setting like from a movie.
