Winding stone paths, centuries-old mansions, flower-covered balconies, and panoramic views of sea and forest—this is what awaits you in the traditional villages in Pelion. The lush slopes of Mount Pelion are dotted with charming settlements that feel like they’ve been plucked from a bygone era. Here, time slows down, and every stroll becomes a story, every corner a photograph, and every moment a memory.
For travelers seeking authenticity, beauty, and a taste of Greek tradition, exploring the traditional villages in Pelion is an experience not to be missed. And when your base is Archontiko Seaside Hotel in Platanias, you have the perfect starting point for daily escapes into these fairytale-like settings.
Makrinitsa: the balcony of Pelion
Perched high on the mountainside, Makrinitsa is perhaps the most famous of all traditional villages in Pelion—and for good reason. Known as the “balcony of Pelion,” it offers sweeping views of Volos and the Pagasetic Gulf below. But it’s not just the vistas that make Makrinitsa unforgettable.
Arriving in Makrinitsa’s central square, you’re greeted by the iconic stone fountain adorned with lion heads and the spread of a massive plane tree that has witnessed centuries of village life. The square’s traditional kafeneia (coffee houses) offer the perfect spot to savor Greek coffee while absorbing the timeless atmosphere.
As you wander the narrow cobblestone paths, notice the magnificent mansions with their characteristic Pelion architecture—three-story stone buildings with wooden balconies painted in rich colors, often adorned with intricate floral motifs.
Portaria: gateway to mountain magic
Often visitors’ first encounter with Pelion’s mountain villages, Portaria combines accessibility with authentic charm. Its position offers spectacular views across Volos and the Pagasitic Gulf, particularly magical at sunset when the sea glows with golden light.
The village’s natural springs have attracted visitors since ancient times, with fountains decorated with carved lions’ heads dispensing cool mountain water throughout the settlement. The central square comes alive each evening as locals and visitors gather for coffee or tsipouro accompanied by traditional mezedes.
Tsagarada: romance in bloom
Spread across four distinct neighborhoods each with its own square, Tsagarada hides among ancient chestnut forests on eastern Pelion. This village is home to perhaps the peninsula’s most famous natural monument—a 1,000-year-old plane tree in Agia Paraskevi square, whose massive trunk requires ten adults linking hands to encircle it completely.
Tsagarada’s architecture reflects the prosperity it enjoyed during the 18th and 19th centuries, with imposing mansions set amidst lush gardens. The village is known for its natural springs, and following the sound of running water will lead you to charming fountains tucked away in unexpected corners.
Walk the shaded trails that lead to waterfalls, such as the one near Fakistra Beach, or hike toward Damouchari, one of the region’s most romantic coastal hamlets. Tsagarada is a place to breathe deeply, wander aimlessly, and connect with nature and history alike.
Milies: where the train still whistles
Approaching Milies, you might hear the distinctive whistle of the legendary Moutzouris—the little train that has connected the village to Volos since 1903. This narrow-gauge railway, an engineering marvel of its time, still operates as a tourist attraction during summer months, offering one of Greece’s most scenic rail journeys.
The village itself unfolds around a magnificent central square where the plane tree’s canopy creates a natural ceiling. The Church of Pamegiston Taxiarchon appears modest from outside but reveals an astonishing interior covered with frescoes and featuring an acoustically perfect dome where whispers can be heard from across the room.
Milies played a significant role in Greece’s intellectual history during the Ottoman era, with its famous school and library nurturing revolutionary ideas. Today, the village maintains its scholarly atmosphere with bookshops and cultural events throughout the year.
Vizitsa: picture-perfect and peaceful
Often overlooked by tourists, Vizitsa is one of the most photogenic traditional villages in Pelion. With its cobbled streets, elegant stone mansions, and stunning views, it’s a perfect destination for those who enjoy walking through history.
The old mansions tell stories of a wealthy past. Visit the square, admire the local church, and explore trails that link Vizitsa to nearby Pinakates and Milies. This trio of villages offers the perfect slow-travel itinerary for a day filled with calm, culture, and spectacular scenery.
Zagora: apples, books, and mountain breezes
Located on the eastern slopes of Pelion, Zagora is one of the largest and oldest villages in the region. It’s best known for its apple production, particularly the crisp and juicy “Zagorin” apple, which has its own Protected Designation of Origin.
Beyond its fruitful fame, Zagora is also home to the famous Zagora Library, one of Greece’s oldest, and a testament to the village’s role as an educational hub. Wander the narrow streets, visit the monastery of Agia Kyriaki, and enjoy fresh mountain air while tasting local delicacies like pies and spoon sweets.
Pinakates and Agios Lavrentios: hidden treasures
If you’re looking to escape the well-trodden paths, the villages of Pinakates and Agios Lavrentios offer just that. Pinakates, with its unspoiled charm and tiny main square, is perfect for an afternoon coffee and walk. Meanwhile, Agios Lavrentios offers a cultural twist, often hosting music festivals and local events that bring the past and present together.
Both villages are easily accessible from Platanias, offering guests of Archontiko Seaside Hotel the chance to dive deeper into the rich tapestry of Pelion’s traditions.
Why stay at Archontiko Seaside Hotel?
Exploring the traditional villages in Pelion is a joy when you have a peaceful seaside retreat to return to. At Archontiko Seaside Hotel, you’ll experience the best of both worlds: proximity to the mountains and the comfort of being just steps from the beach.
After a day of wandering cobblestone paths and tasting mountain flavors, come back to the hotel to relax by the sea, sip a drink on the terrace, and plan your next adventure. Our team is always happy to recommend routes, share local stories, and help you discover hidden gems along the way.
The traditional villages in Pelion are more than travel destinations—they’re living stories, waiting to be discovered. Let Archontiko Seaside Hotel be your home as you write your own chapter in Pelion. Book your stay and experience a journey through time you’ll never forget.