There’s something tender and inherently romantic about the autumn months, even when we can’t quite put our finger on what exactly renders them so idyllically enchanting. One thing is for sure: there’s no more fitting season for an escape to a tranquil, scenic and eye-opening destination, just the two of you.
Often, our minds conjure images of a picturesque mountain village, enveloped within a strikingly beautiful natural landscape, strolls beside flowing streams and cobblestone alleys, pit-stops for coffee and meals at a traditional shop with a view, at a secluded table set just for us and our beloved. Or perhaps hikes through the riotous nature of mountainous Greece, trails beside crystal-clear lakes, and stays in small, atmospheric rooms with a fireplace warming the space during the year’s first chilly days, enfolding everything in a lovely warmth.
The autumn side of Greece has something for everyone, whether you’re seeking a few days of utter tranquility and relaxation in a tiny settlement away from everything and everyone, or you want to spend a few days in one of the most popular winter destinations. The options are truly abundant for a dreamy escape to some of Greece’s most beautiful villages, which await your discovery, and an unforgettable stay in some of the most romantic, traditional inns of mountainous Greece.
Stemnitsa
Near historical Dimitsana and the renowned Vitina, there lies Stemnitsa, a village of arresting beauty and vibrant greenery, enveloped by a dense forest at an elevation of 1,100 metres. Towering firs, expansive plane trees, walnut and cherry trees, stalwart chestnuts, and delicate acacias orchestrate a uniquely enchanting landscape. Its name, stemming from the Slavic language, fittingly means “a shady and forested place”.
A somewhat secluded location imbues Stemnitsa with the perfect romantic answer for an idyllic, autumnal retreat with your beloved. Imagine embarking on walks through the magnificent, unspoiled nature that enfolds the village, and lodging within atmospheric, stone-built inns where fireplaces sprinkle the space with warmth and comfort. At the heart of the village, the charming little square becomes a vibrant scene of cafes and restaurants, all under the watchful eye of the Church of St. George and its towering, imposing belfry. Exploring further, meander through the narrow, cobblestone alleys and allow your gaze to linger upon the windows of local shops, showcasing delicate silver jewellery and adorable, handcrafted decorations.
Moreover, Stemnitsa is a place heralded for its tradition in silversmithing and goldsmithing. Thus, a visit to the School of Silversmithing, housed within a striking building at the village’s core, becomes indispensable. The school ardently perpetuates the art and traditions of the village’s original metallurgists. These artisans not only mastered the secrets of crafting exquisite jewellery but also possessed an awe-inspiring technique in constructing intricate bell towers. Pieces of their remarkable work have traversed from Stemnitsa to the churches of Eastern Europe, showcasing the pervasive and timeless artistry that the village continues to cherish and evolve.
In the picturesque village of Arcadia, a two-day escape is inevitably adorned with a classic stroll through the famed Palamidi quarter, a neighbourhood in the northern part of Stemnitsa, brimming with impressive, historical mansions, and includes a visit to the local Folklore Museum, harboured within one of the village’s most beautiful old houses, the Hatzis Mansion. More than 200 years of prosperity and creativity are showcased through valuable exhibits that captivate visitors, with handmade jewellery playing a leading role throughout the museum, inspiring with its elegance and beauty.
To embrace the most enchanting view across Stemnitsa, ascend to the ‘Mother of Water’, the source that hydrates the village, providing a disarmingly beautiful visual sweep of the picturesque settlement. If you’re inclined towards a bit of trekking, follow the path that leads to the Monastery of Zoodochos Pigis with its beautifully carved wooden temple, a masterpiece from 1805.
The entire village is sprinkled with astounding and incredibly hospitable guesthouses, offering an unforgettable stay for a truly romantic couple of days away from everything and everyone. Consider exploring rooms at the Bellaiko, with a vista across the village, and numerous beautiful rooms featuring fireplaces. Kanto’s Guesthouse also stands as a charming choice, uniquely blending the distinctive architecture of the village with a modern refurbishment, offering an intriguing synthesis of past and present.
Trikala of Corinthia
In the mountainous region of Corinthia, journey to one of Greece’s most beloved, picturesque, and culinarily exciting winter destinations. Steeped in a history that reaches back into antiquity, this area is partitioned into three neighbourhoods: Kato (lower), Mesaia (middle), and Ano (upper) Trikala, each one a distinct “neighbourhood” scaled upon the slopes of Mount Zireia. Certainly, they are easily traversed through delightful serpentine routes up the mountain, becoming even more thrilling on the loveliest and sunniest days of autumn.
Breathing in the expanse of the fertile valley of Feneos and the ancient Lake Stymphalia, as well as the stunning artificial Lake Doxa, a watery “jewel” worth exploring in every season, we embark on a serene sojourn.
In Trikala of Corinthia, three distinct villages communicate with one another in a seamless, natural continuum, as if each magically unfolds from the last, gradually extending homes and traditional buildings ever higher into the mountains, along uphill, idyllic roads concealed within the verdant wilds of Corinthia. Remarkably, each village maintains a unique character, with the varying altitudes playing their part, be it minor or major, in shaping each locale’s distinct personality.
A mere 150 kilometres from Attica, Trikala of Corinthia offers an exceptionally accessible destination for a brief escape with your partner, even if it’s an unplanned, spur-of-the-moment getaway without detailed planning. What’s more, using Trikala as your starting point, you can visit numerous other beautiful spots in the surrounding area, with the must-visit Lake Doxa, of course, at the foothills of Mount Pentelia and Mount Helmos, topping the list. Beside the lake, the small, stone chapel of Agios Fanourios creates a contemplative scene, particularly at sunset, when the lake, situated at an altitude of 900 metres, is at its most captivating, utterly enchanting moment.
Envisage this: a heartening trek with a purpose, ascending toward the monastery of Agios Georgios Feneos, a sanctuary once dwelling considerably lower, precisely where now stands the church of Agios Fanourios. Since the 17th century, it has gazed down upon the waters from its elevated perch. The panorama from this vantage point is a quiet spectacle, as is the expansive beauty of Lake Doxa. Should fortune grace your venture with the monastery’s open doors, inside, the wooden stairs leading to the upper balcony offer a remarkable view of the lake.
In the midst of the journey, a pause in Goura, the village that you’ll encounter midway between the lake and Trikala of Corinthia, would not go amiss. The stone-paved, elevated square of Goura, emblematic of the settlement, is arguably amongst the most delightful you’ll find in the mountainous destinations of Greece.
Imagine an unforgettable, romantic sojourn: you might seek room at the luxurious guesthouse Pleiadon Gi, where you will reside in autonomous, stone lux suites that afford the epitome of seclusion. Alternatively, the comforting rooms at Archontiko Fiamengo, each boasting its own fireplace, and some even their private jacuzzi, offer another lovely retreat.
Agoriani
It might be uncontentious to acknowledge that Arachova is the jewel of Greek mountain destinations. However, if you’re seeking a deeper sense of tranquility, visit Agoriani, a village that makes for the perfect base near lush nature, amidst verdant fir trees and in the pristine mountain air.
Set off from the charming Kato Agoriani, alternatively known as Lilaea until 1928, a picturesque settlement constructed at the foothills of Mount Parnassus, enshrouded in a lush, tranquil landscape at an altitude of 330 metres. Upon entering the village, you’ll be greeted by the poignant sign, ‘Martyr Village,’ a silent reminder for visitors of the ruthless days of 1943 when, that October, the village was entirely incinerated by the Germans, leaving only ashes and devastation in their wake. Shortly after, in the village’s petite square, you’ll sip your coffee whilst gazing at the church and the two stone Kefalovrysa, distinctive features of Kato Agoriani.
Also of interest is the National Resistance Museum, housed in the residence of the fighter, Yiannis Alexandrou. Certainly, take a moment to pause here before wandering through the quaint, cobblestone lanes.
The settlement of Agoriani is built upon seven green hills, its official name is Eptalofos. A splendid mountain settlement is ensconced within a dense fir forest, amidst cool, running waters. Hike up to the hillock of the Church of Agia Paraskevi to attain the best panoramic view of the entire village and then, lose yourself within the cobblestone alleyways, where you will find scores of shops offering delicious local produce and charming souvenirs.
Also, venture to the settlement’s delightful square from where the view is genuinely remarkable. Within the village, the Ethnographic Museum of Eptalofos is well worth a visit, brimming with ethnographic treasures that reveal much about the history and traditions of the region.
If you’re craving a long, exploratory walk in nature, go for a hike along the length of the Agorianiti river. The route guides you to a small yet stunningly beautiful waterfall, which cascades fervently into an untouched landscape of rampant vegetation.
Among the most charming traditional inns of Agoriani, you’ll find the Asimina Guesthouse, offering comfortable, impeccably clean rooms with understated decor just 100 metres from the village square. And then, there’s the Balkoni of Agoriani, with its traditional rooms, a captivating view, and an on-site restaurant providing a delightful breakfast and exquisite local cuisine.
Nafplion
A mere one and a half hours away from Athens, Nafplion, with its characteristic quaintness, lovely, cobbled alleyways, small but utterly charming Old Town, and its important historic, is one of the most romantic and atmospheric destinations in mainland Greece. It certainly stands as one of the most historical since it was the first capital of the newly formed Greek state at the time.
Any stroll in Nafplion, in essence, mandates commencing with a customary walk along the much-photographed Megalos Dromos, one of the oldest and most idyllic streets of modern Greece. Constructed under the orders of Ioannis Kapodistrias during the era when Nafplion was the capital of the Greek state, Megalos Dromos seamlessly links the beginning of Nafplio town with Syntagma Square.
In this quaint nook of the world, you might find yourself losing track of time wandering through the picturesque alleyways of Nafplion, as you look for the chapel of Agios Spyridon. There, on its stone wall, a subtle indenture provides a tangible echo from the past: the bullet hole that claimed the life of Ioannis Kapodistrias, the first governor of Greece.
If you’d like to take a walk that will take you to new heights, walk the (supposedly 999, though some say it’s more) steps to the Palamidi fortress. From its commanding heights, your eyes will drink in scenes where the soothing embrace of the sea laps against the dramatic sweep of history beneath it.
Perhaps, this journey also unravels an opportune moment to savour the intricate tapestry of Greece’s bygone epochs. The Archaeological Museum of Nafplion and the Folklore Museum invite you to delve deeper, offering a rich tableau of collections which include, amidst other artefacts, Kapodistrias’ own desk.
As daylight yields to the gentleness of evening, picture this: you and your beloved, side by side, sipping on a delicious cocktail by the sea, while the illuminated Bourtzi fortress gently flutters across the tranquil waters in a distant yet companionable silence.
Stayingin the Old Town not only places you in the intimate proximity of all landmarks but also ensures that you immerse yourself in an authentically romantic residential experience, one that you might forgo otherwise.
Consider for a moment, the beguiling guesthouse Omorfi Poli, where delightful mornings begin with heartening breakfasts and suites provide a serene retreat. Alternatively, let Amymone and Adiandi collection welcome you, with each room presenting a unique décor, crafting a truly memorable stay.
Arachova
There’s a lingering misapprehension about Arachova that demands a gentle correction: it’s a prevailing thought among many that this cosmopolitan town warrants a visit solely for indulging in endless hours of skiing at the Parnassos Ski Centre or for reveling from afternoon till the deep of night in the bustling square of Lakka, lounging in comfy armchairs under the warm glow of heaters, shrouded by cosy blankets. Indeed, Arachova embraces all this, yet it also offers so much more.
Arachova has the perfect balance between its more touristic side and a robust mountain tradition, reflected in its splendid local products, a lively community and wonderful surrounding landscapes. One thing is for sure: no list of autumnal, romantic destinations in Greece could be deemed complete without including Aracova, the queen of autumn and winter destinations, while simultaneously being one of the most enchanting towns in the country.
Every wander through Arachova begins with a meander down its serpentine central road, on one side looking out to a view of the Delphi Valley, and on the other a row of the village’s elegant restaurants, cafes and bars, with the clock tower rising above.
Next, retrace your steps to the village centre and head up towards the Church of Saint George. Awaiting you are 265 steps, ready to be climbed, set against a backdrop of Arachova’s rooftops and chimneys. In spring, they may not billow with smoke, yet they remain equally traditional, narrating tales of a bygone era and a persisting rich cultural tapestry.
Upon reaching the peak, stop to take in a sweeping vista, the tapestry of nature, at one of the most photographable spots in the entire region. If you wish to take a different path on your way down, you can walk along the cobbled paths, making your way down via the rear, sloping lanes. This provides a splendid opportunity to truly see all angles of the village, exploring every narrow alley and every “hidden” corner in a single stroll.
Undoubtedly, the scenery is inherently romantic, and should you seek more tranquility, visit Agoriani and other nearby villages, and of course, historic Delphi for a genuinely enlightening journey through time, visiting one of the most significant archaeological sites in Greece.
For a comfortable stay, get rooms in the opulent Santa Marina Arachova Resort and Spa, with its striking indoor pool, or at the Domotel Anemolia Mountain Resort, where perfect vistas of the Delphi Valley and spacious, comfortable rooms await. This eloquent interplay of luxury and tradition offers not just a place to stay, but warm hospitality and the spirit of the Greek countryside.
