Macedonian grandeur, impressive mansions, cobbled alleys and beech forests form a unique backdrop in Nymfaio, Florina. One of the most beautiful villages in mountainous Greece awaits you on the slopes of Mount Vitsi.
With imposing stone mansions and cobbled paths surrounded by a fairytale beech forest, Nymfaio, Florina looks straight out of a painting. Built at 1.350 meters on the slopes of Mount Vitsi, a short distance from the city of Florina, it is one of the highest and most beautiful villages in Greece. In fact, Nymfaio has been recognized as one of the 10 most beautiful villages in Europe, while in UNESCO’s global competition it vied for the International «Melina Mercouri» Award for exemplary management of cultural heritage and the natural environment.
Stroll the picturesque cobbled lanes of Nymfaio
Nymfaio(originally called Niveasta and later Neveska) was first settled in 1385 and has held an important place in the region’s history ever since, peaking in great economic prosperity from the 18th century to the early 20th, when merchants from Neveska expanded west and east and the village was one of the largest silver- and goldsmithing centers in the Balkans. Though at one time its residents abandoned it for major urban centers, since the early 1990s the village has been reborn and revitalized thanks to the contribution of notable people who hail from there.
Today, Nymfaio is one of Greece’s most renowned winter destinations. The village impresses with its distinctive architecture and setting. The entrance with the arched wooden bridge linking two striking mansions, the stone-paved paths, the cobbled lanes, the well-crafted stone houses, and the towering beech trees surrounding the village create a unique ensemble that captivates the visitor at first sight.
The settlement is designated traditional, with stone and wood prevailing, while the roofs of the houses are made of galvanized sheet metal so that snow slides off easily. In winter, the sight of the imposing mansions with their snow-capped roofs is magical. The village’s hallmark is the old stone school, the Nikeios School, a donation by the eminent tobacco merchant Zan Nikou in 1928.
Though famed as a winter destination, Nymfaio is beautiful in every season. Starting from the village, you can walk through the beech forests that surround it and breathe the mountain’s invigorating air, go horse riding and cycling, visit the lakes Zazari and Cheimaditida which are Natura 2000 protected areas, and savor fine wines from renowned vineyards.
A sanctuary for bears
InNymfaiois the headquarters of Arcturos, the non-profit organization known for the protection it provides to the bears living in Greece. Don’t miss the chance to visit the Bear Sanctuary, located within a fenced area of 50 stremmas, in a natural beech forest, and home to ten former captive bears («dancing bears»). At the brown bear information center, in the historic building of the Nikeios School, you can learn about the evolution of the brown bear, its geographic distribution, the threats it faces as a species, and more.
Accommodation
- The Nymfes Hotel is housed in a heritage stone building, built in 1923 and recently renovated, while its privileged amphitheatrical setting generously offers enchanting views.The hotel features a lounge with a fireplace, a beautiful courtyard, and a dedicated spa area.
- The guesthouseLa Moara, the first guesthouse to operate in the village, authentically recreates the famed old mansions, blendingtradition with modern comforts.
- At the Nives guesthouse, in the upper neighborhood of the village, you’ll feel like guests in an authentic Neveska home.
- 400 meters from the village center, the Manis hotel offers views of the beautiful alpine landscape with its beech trees.
Food
- In Nymfaio there aretavernas and meze eateries where you can trytraditionaldishes, such as Platia and Diporto.
- Thetaverna Thomasin the village of Sklithro, 10 minutes outside Nymfaio, is a top choice for dining in the area. Nearly 40 different dishes daily and more than 500 labels of Greek wine promise a unique gastronomic experience.
