The province of Thessaly, where Pelion and Ensueño are located, is home to rich cultural, historical and physical wonders. Here are a few suggestions on where to go and what to do around the mountain and the surrounding areas.
Pelion has an abundance of natural beauty. There are multiple trails, most of them preserved quite well, where you can walk from just a few hours up to a whole day. Difficulties vary but they all offer breathtaking views and forests full of streams and wildlife.
One of the most iconic features of Pelion is its majestic mountains. The Pelion mountain range offers numerous hiking trails, suitable for both beginners and experienced trekkers. Whether you choose to explore the scenic routes around Makrinitsa, visit the ancient stone arch bridge of Tsagarada, or hike to the top of Mount Pelion itself, you’ll be treated to breathtaking views of lush forests, gorges, and the sparkling Aegean Sea. Don’t forget to taste the delicious local cuisine at mountain tavernas along the way.
Pelion boasts a diverse coastline with an array of stunning beaches. Whether you prefer secluded coves or bustling seaside towns, Pelion has it all. Visit the crystal-clear waters of Mylopotamos Beach, surrounded by towering cliffs and lush vegetation, or take a leisurely swim in the tranquil waters of Plaka Beach. Along the coast, you’ll find charming fishing villages like Kala Nera and Milina, offering fresh seafood and a taste of authentic Greek coastal life.
The villages of Pelion are both full of its history and gorgeously build with its traditional architecture. Some of them are more touristy than others, and due to the altitude and difficulty of building roads, you might need to drive longer than one hour to visit some of them. We wholeheartedly suggest you visit at least some of the following:
Pelion is also home to one of the world’s oldest train locomotives still in use around the world. Moutzouris takes you from Lechonia to Milies, following the same network that was established around 120 years ago. At some points of the route, the width is one of the shortest a train can operate in through the world, with only 60cm of width.
According to Greek mythology, Pelion was home to the wise centaur Chiron. You can explore the Centaurs’ Path, a hiking trail that follows in the footsteps of these mythical creatures. Along the way, you’ll encounter beautiful waterfalls, lush forests, and ancient bridges, all while connecting with the rich mythological history of the region.
No visit to Greece is complete without indulging in its delicious cuisine, and Pelion is no exception. Sample local specialties like “tsitsiravla” (wild greens), “spetzofai” (sausage and pepper stew), and local traditional pies. Be sure to pair your meals with the region’s renowned “tsipouro” or “rakomelo,” a warm, honey-infused version of the Greek spirit raki.
The ancient Gods were smart enough to not have their summer residence too far from their legendary home. Mount Olympus is the highest mountain in Greece with its peak reaching 2,917m. Its foothills are filled with brilliant stone-build villages, bridges over streams, ancient sites such as Dion, churches and monasteries. Olympus is mostly a concentration of rocky soil with deep cliffs, rivers and streams that was named the first national park of Greece back in the 1930s. It is a 2h30min drive from Ensueño,
A unique physical landscape where huge rocks seem to have been forcefully punched out of the earth and into the heights. On top of these magnificent rocks, some of the oldest Christian monasteries have been built carefully and with admirable craftsmanship. Take the stairs to the top and enjoy the magnificent view of Thessaly fields as the sun sets above the rocks.
