The new year starts in the best way, with getaways to snow-covered landscapes and picturesque villages located in some of the most beautiful mountain regions of Greece.
The start of a new year is a perfect excuse for short getaways that fill us with images and experiences. The mountains of Greece, with their picturesque villages, lush nature and dramatic landscapes, are an ideal choice for those who want to leave daily stress behind and breathe in pure oxygen.
From stone-built mountain houses on the slopes to enchanting lakes and gorges, mountain destinations from Epirus to the Peloponnese offer experiences that blend nature, tradition and warm hospitality. We’ve gathered five ideal choices for the first escapes of the new year.
Tzoumerka
The Athamanika Mountains, more widely known as Tzoumerka, are a destination for those who love nature in its most authentic form. They form one of the largest mountain ranges in western Greece, with an imposing landscape of striking peaks, gorges and rivers that carve through the region. The Arachthos River, flowing beneath stone bridges, together with the area’s traditional villages, creates a scene that feels as if time has stood still in another era.
The villages, amphitheatrically built on the slopes, impress with their architecture and history. Striking Kalarrytes stands on the edge of a steep ravine that leads to the Kalarrytikos River, at an elevation of 1,150 meters, while Pramanta at 784 m. is one of the most popular villages, with an active role in the Greek War of Independence of 1821. Syrrako is famed for its traditions, with houses that showcase Epirote architecture. Historic Vourgareli exudes tranquility amid nature. Tzoumerka invites hiking, nature exploration and moments of relaxation in intimate guesthouses, with the flavors of Epirote cuisine completing the experience.
Lake Plastira
Lake Plastira is an ideal destination for relaxation. The serene landscape all around changes with the seasons and always keeps its beauty. The lake’s calm waters mirror the sky and the trees, creating a unique setting for those who have the chance to take a stroll either on foot or by bicycle. The area lends itself to exploration, as well as activities such as hiking, cycling on the lake, horseback riding and archery.
The impressive Tavropos Dam is worth a visit, as are the villages that lie by the lake and on its mountainous flanks. Head up to Karitsa with the famed Monastery of Panagia Pelekitis in the area, hewn into a massive rock. In Kastania you’ll take walks through the forest, in Fylakti you’ll enjoy the amazing view toward the impressive 8,000-stremma fir forest that lies across from the village and in Mesenikolas you’ll taste the renowned wine, while you’ll also visit Koroni Monastery nearby. Don’t forget to sit at the area’s traditional tavernas that serve homemade dishes with local ingredients.
Pelion
Pelion is one of the most alluring mountain destinations in Greece, uniquely combining nature with tradition and stately aesthetics. On the Mountain of the Centaurs there are picturesque villages built within forests of chestnut, beech and plane trees, which manage, no matter how many years pass, to preserve their traditional character unchanged. In Pelion you’ll have the chance to start the year with endless strolls against a backdrop of traditional mansions, small cafés and little tavernas serving dishes with distinctive recipes.
Pelion is the destination that suits every traveler seeking serenity. Makrinitsa and Portaria, with panoramic views over the Pagasetic Gulf, are among the most popular stops, while Tsagarada, with its large squares and centuries-old plane trees, exudes an authentic Pelion atmosphere. Milies stands out for its authentic atmosphere and traditional cobbled lanes. However, the experience worth trying is a ride with the legendary Moutzouris, the little train that travels from Milies to Ano Lechonia, along a route of spectacular scenery. For lovers of snowy landscapes, the Pelion Ski Center is the ideal destination.
Mountainous Nafpaktia
Mountainous Nafpaktia remains one of the quietest and most authentic mountain destinations in Greece, appealing to those seeking tranquility far from mass tourism. Dense forests, fir-clad slopes and small villages create a landscape of unparalleled beauty that will steal your heart. The villages of Nafpaktia seem to have remained untouched by the passage of time.
Ano Chora, built at elevation and surrounded by greenery, is the heart of the area and an ideal base for exploration. Villages such as Elatou and Platanos offer enchanting scenes, with stone houses, narrow cobbled lanes and traditional squares. In Ambelakiotissa you’ll encounter the monastery of Panagia Ambelakiotissa with its long history. Time flows slowly in Mountainous Nafpaktia, the forest paths are ideal for hiking, the villages’ narrow lanes for a stroll and the tavernas for traditional food by the fireplace. The area is the ideal choice for those who want to spend a peaceful holiday away from the crowds.
Mountainous Arcadia
Mountainous Arcadia is one of those destinations that never disappoint. It is very close to Athens and is a classic escape for all seasons. Mainalo, thick with firs, embraces villages that preserve their traditional character.The routes in the Lousios Gorge, the monasteries and the quiet trails make the area ideal both for relaxed getaways and for activities in nature. If you love hiking, it’s worth getting to know the Menalon Trail, a 75 km network divided into 8 sections that connects nine mountain villages.
Dimitsana, with its stone architecture, stands out as one of the most atmospheric villages of Mainalo. The Open-Air Water Power Museum is worth a visit as it highlights the traditional life of the area. Stemnitsa, with its beautiful houses and cafés, exudes a sense of relaxation and Karytaina stands out for its unique architecture. Vytina, livelier and more cosmopolitan, is an ideal spot for a stop, food and strolls, especially in the winter months. The Mainalo Ski Center is ideal for snow activities that young and old alike will love.
