Family-friendly destinations for the Clean Monday long weekend within easy reach of Athens.
The Clean Monday long weekend is just around the corner and you’re getting ready for a trip with the kids. Even if you haven’t planned anything, there are plenty of options for a last-minute getaway, whether to the mountains or by the sea. In fact, some destinations are so close to Athens that you can take a day trip just for Koulouma.
Pavliani
The jewel of Fthiotida, popular Pavliani, is a destination for the whole family just about 2.5 hours from Athens. Built on the lush green slopes of Oiti beside the waters of the springs of the Asopos River,it offers a relaxing experience amid verdant nature. In recent years it has become a favorite excursion for families and couples from all over Greece thanks to good food and activities in the village.
The famed recreation park, or Pavliani’s little park as it’s known, was lovingly created by the villagers and impresses young and old alike. You’ll feel like kids again for a while with the homemade outdoor games you’ll find along your stroll, whether you choose a short or a long route. Walk across the piano bridge, swing over the little river, play bowling or volleyball, and wander through nature. If you’re in the mood for hiking, you’ll need about 3 to 4 hours to cover the whole park and climb to the top of the Iron Throne, with sweeping views as far as Stylida. In case you want to experience the carnival in the area, head to the village of Mendenitsa, an hour away, which revives the local Myth of Griitsa.
Kalavryta
Among the most popular winter getaway destinations for Athenians and beyond, Kalavryta has held the lead for years. In about 2.5 hours from Athens, you’ll find yourself in the picturesque town with its tavernas and cozy stone-built cafes. It’s an ideal destination for families with children, since there’s plenty of space for play and strolling. The Kalavryta Ski Center on the slopes of magical Helmos,is located 15 kilometers away and offers runs for everyone, as well as a cafe with easy access for those who don’t engage in winter sports or who want to rest.
There are many sights in the area, such as the monasteries of Agia Lavra and Mega Spilaio, the Museum of the Kalavryta Holocaust housed in the town’s old municipal school, and the Cave of the Lakes. Nearby is the plane-tree forest of Planitero- UNESCO Geopark, in the picturesque village of the same name. The most enchanting experience you’ll have in the area is the route of the legendary Odontotos, the train that passes through the Vouraikos Gorge. It’s a 23-kilometer route from Kalavryta railway station to Diakopto. You can make stops or go all the way to the end and return.
Chalkida
A nearby family escape ideal even for a day trip is Chalkida. The journey won’t tire you out even if the kids are small because it lasts just an hour. The city of the crazy waters will give you the sea breeze you need as you dine on seafood, and the chance to unwind. Options for food, drinks and coffee are many and for all tastes, and distances in the city are short. Walk across the Old Evripos Bridge where you’ll see the tidal Euripus phenomenon with the waters changing direction. To admire the view from above, climb up to Karababa Castle.
In Chalkida, Carnival is spectacular, with the traditional Sea Carnival. A unique spectacle on land and sea, with «Enceladus», their own Carnival King who banishes every evil, and fireworks that color the sky. If you want to go a little outside the city, don’t miss a stroll in Eretria, a destination chosen by families with children in the summer months and beyond. There you’ll also find many options for food and coffee by the waves.
Livadeia
Livadeia is a nearby city with easy access, ideal even for just one day. Family strolls at the springs of Krya beside the Erkyna River conclude with coffee and food at the venues around it. Walking and play in the central square and along its pedestrian streets will reward you.
Carnival and the Carnival of Livadeia are closely tied to history, with customs and traditions from the Dionysian heritage. At the traditional Gaitanaki a big party is set up every year in the streets of the city by students and their families. The lighting of the good fire in the central Square is accompanied by dances and music. You can also combine your excursion with a visit to beautiful Arachova for a stroll and food. In addition, if you’re a snow lover, head up to the Parnassos Ski Center for skiing as well as moments of relaxation at the chalets.
Galaxidi
Famous for its carnival celebrations and beyond, Galaxidi exudes an island atmosphere just 200 kilometers from Athens. It blends sea and mountain, and its lively vibe will thrill the whole family. To find tranquility, walk to the Pera Panta pine forest and the little harbor of Chirolakas. Visit the Maritime and Historical Museum to learn everything about the area’s history, and savor your meal with views of the endless blue.
Clean Monday in Galaxidi is famous throughout Greece thanks to its playful custom. The flour-smudging has its roots back in 1801. Children and adults head to the market where the “flouring” with flour and the “smudging” with soot begins. Tons are hurled in every direction, with the result that everyone is painted in colors. The aim is to get smudged as much as possible. However, the custom is ideal for older kids and not the very young, due to the crowds and the flour-fighting.
Syros
The grand dame of the Cyclades is a three-hour ferry ride from Athens and celebrates Carnival in its own way. If you want to celebrate the start of spring on an island, this getaway is ideal. Syros isn’t the closest island, but it’s one of the most welcoming for families with children. Ermoupoli has generous streets, sidewalks and squares for strolling and play. Walk among the neoclassical mansions of Ermoupoli and admire the Apollo Theater built in 1864 on the model of La Scala in Milan. In historic Miaouli Square you’ll behold the famous Town Hall of the city, a work by German architect Ernst Ziller, one of the largest and most impressive in Greece. For more picturesque strolls, visit Ano Syros with its narrow alleys, little shops and superb views.
In recent years, the Syros Carnival «Georgios Souris» gathers visitors from all regions of the country. It blends the charming contrasts of Ano Syros with the rebetiko tradition. The program is rich with events for all ages, with music and dance and parades. The Children’s Carnival, musical performances by the Orchestra of the Cyclades and the the Hunt for the Hidden Loukoumi, will offer you a special experience.
