A short distance from Thessaloniki there are wonderful villages for spring getaways that combine nature and tradition.
Spring is just a breath away, and what better than a getaway into lush green nature? This time were heading north to explore six beautiful villages near Thessaloniki. Traditional settlements with imposing mansions and idyllic landscapes for relaxation and activities in nature are waiting for us for the first spring weekends and long weekends.
Arnaia, Halkidiki
Visiting the mountain village of Arnaia, about 70 km from Thessaloniki and 38 km from Polygyros, is an experience you shouldnt miss if you want to discover another side of Halkidiki. Built amphitheatrically at an elevation of 600 m on the northern foothills of Mount Cholomontas, in a verdant landscape with rich forests and abundant running waters, Arnaia is filled with beautiful houses and buildings that are outstanding examples of traditional Macedonian architecture. Its no coincidence that a few years ago CNN included it in its list of the most beautiful villages in Greece.
Restored mansions with covered verandas and traditional houses painted in vivid colors or ochres adorn Arnaia, which has been designated a "Historic site" and "Traditional Settlement" since 1987 by the Ministry of Culture. The Municipality has even designed six distinct walking routes to better serve visitors and make exploring the settlement easier. Dont miss Arnaias famed local products, such as honey, wine, and the unique Moudovina, a distinctive tsipouro made from honey (PDO product). Close to the village lies the beautiful grove of Agia Paraskevi, as well as the chapel of Prophet Elias for walks in nature.
Parthenonas, Halkidiki
Yes, Halkidiki has its own Parthenonas too (no relationto Athens Parthenon). Five kilometers above Neos Marmaras, on the slopes of Mount Itamos at 350 meters altitude, Parthenonas is the jewel village of Sithonia. It is one of the oldest villages in Halkidiki, with a long history lost in the depths of time. The village was once abandoned but began to come back to life in the mid-1980s. Thanks to the efforts of residents and visitors, the houses were restored according to traditional Macedonian architecture to preserve the authenticity of the place.
Parthenonas was declared a preserved settlement and today it is one of the loveliest places in Halkidiki. The well-kept stone buildings and cobbled lanes, combined with dense greenery and uninterrupted sea views, make Parthenonas a favorite destination for all seasons. In the village, its worth visiting the Church of Saint Stephen, the oldest church in the area, as well as the Folklore Museum. Once youve explored Parthenonas, you can climb higher toward the summit of Mount Itamos. Both mountain biking and hiking will lead you along the forest trails there.
Litochoro, Pieria
Intertwined with explorations of the mythical Mount Olympus, picturesque Litochoro is an ideal destination year-round. Litochoro is built on the eastern foothills of the legendary mountain, 25 km from Katerini and 90 km from Thessaloniki. The charming town of Pieria is the main gateway to Olympus, since ascents to its refuges and the summit, Mytikas (2,918 m), start from the spots "Prionia" and "Gortsia".
From Litochoros central square begins a maze of narrow lanes, while at the top of the settlement lies the old village. Macedonian-style houses, neoclassical captains mansions, small neighborhood squares, stone fountains, and churches compose the scene. Dont miss the Nautical Museum, with exhibits that reveal the towns rich maritime heritage. Litochoro is also an ideal base for exploring the traditional settlements of Palaios Panteleimonas and Skotina.
Palaios Panteleimonas, Pieria
A beautiful settlement on the slopes of Lower Olympus, draped in chestnut, strawberry, beech and plane trees and with unique views toward the Thermaic Gulf and the shores of Southern Pieria, Palaios Panteleimonas will win you overat first sight. It is designated a traditional settlement, as it is one of the best examples of traditional Macedonian architecture in northern Greece. The settlement managed to retain its local character as it had almost been abandoned since the 1950s. In the 1980s, however, it was restored and the village began to come to life again.
A square with centuries-old plane trees, the restored old school, stone houses with red-tiled roofs, cobbled lanes, and a natural landscape of exceptional beauty create a unique, movie-like setting.The dense forest of chestnut, strawberry and beech trees that embraces the village is ideal for hiking routes, mountain biking, 4×4 drives and other outdoor activities.
