Nine Greek destinations featured below, combining nature, recreational activities, delicious food and local products, are gaining wider exposure, offering modernised travel experiences, and becoming attractions.
Evrytania
From the gorge of the Karpenisiotis river to Prousos, and Velouhi to Lake Kremasta, the nature of the Evrytania region in central Greece, along with the locale, offer a destination that remains memorable for visitors. Lovely villages, traditional cafes that highlight the region’s hospitality, diligent locals who are open-hearted and sincere, gorges, cliffs, waterfalls and lakes, are all part of the Evrytania experience.
At the same time, Karpenisi, the capital of the Evrytania regional unit, is a revamped town displaying clear signs of progress. It is adapting to developments, open to innovation and incorporating solutions.
Evrytania is a perfect destination for travellers keen on trails, road routes, as well as charming small guesthouses.
Ioannina
Ioannina’s vibrant and modern city centre, the fortified old town, lake and associated recreational activities all help bring visitors closer to the essence of this northwestern city. Traditional buildings mix with modern constructions for a harmonious blend that tells the story of a city that has always found ways to develop and overcome obstacles.
A short boat ride to the islet in the centre of Lake Pamvotida (Lake of Ioannina) is a rewarding and relaxing experience. Also visit the castle and explore the lakeside area. Keep in mind the traditional recipes and delicious, quality meat dishes offered at charming eateries. They serve a wide range of interesting food choices.
Arachova
Renowned as a winter-season holiday destination, Arachova, northwest of Athens, on the southern side of Mount Parnassus, is an attraction that transforms wishes into reality. The Arachova ski resort is a regional landmark.
The location also stands apart on the strength of its gastronomic choices, entertainment, as well as various good-tasting, quality local products. Arachova is built around a slope at an altitude of 1,000 metres. Besides stone buildings, the town features luxury resorts, stylish guesthouses, trendy cafes and fine restaurants. Explore the alleys around the clock tower, and also check Ai Giorgis church.
Zagorochoria
One of the country’s most popular mountain-range attractions, Zagorohoria, a group of 46 villages in the northwestern Zagori region, now also appeal to visitors in the summer. The area’s unique architecture, combined with rich nature and warm hospitality, create an ideal mix for visitors. Though part of the overall offering, the 46 Zagori villages each maintain their own, distinctive style.
At the nucleus, imposing Vikos gorge is the regional landmark. The surrounding villages, gorgeous and stone-built, feature charming squares, cosy spots to sit for food or coffee, an extensive network of trails, and recreational activities at the Voidomatis river amongst many other highlights making Zagorochoria a top-choice destination.
Areopoli – Mani Peninsula
Areopoli, the capital of the Mani peninsula’s Mesa Mani region in the southern Peloponnese, offers well-preserved tower houses, lovely villages, and a beautiful balance of nature and architecture. Remnants of the area’s mighty past remain clearly evident. Definitely explore Areopoli’s vibrant city centre, with shops, tavernas and charming cafes, for insight into the local character.
Karavostasi, the small port serving Areopoli, has also developed in terms of tourism, while neighbouring Limeni, featuring the Mavromichalis Tower as a backdrop, is a great place to enjoy delicious fresh-fish meals. The wider Areopoli area is one of the most popular attractions in the Mani peninsula. The Diros Tower and the impressive Diros Caves are major draws.
Lake Plastiras
The lush peaks of the Agrafa mountain region in central Greece are reflected in the crystal-clear waters of Lake Plastiras, a perfect location for relaxation. A drive around the lake, stretching 70 kilometres, offers vistas of unrivalled beauty, including inlets and surrounding mountain slopes.
Fir, chestnut and oak trees create a forest setting that offers abounding surprises at every turn. Visit the gorgeous Fylakti caves, offering a great view of the lake, the alpine peaks, and the picturesque elevated village Kerasia, from where the view is also terrific. Using this village as a base, visitors can enjoy treks. The area also offers a view of the town Mouzaki and the vast Thessalian plain. The stone bridge at the Anthochori waterfall, as well as a series of lovely villages, including Kalyvia, Neraida and Pezoula, further enhance the exploration experience.
Monemvasia
Monemvasia, one of the country’s best-preserved fortified cities, in the southeast of the Peloponnese, features churches, old mansions, hammams and cobbled paths for a one-of-a-kind setting that takes visitors back in time to a period stretching from the Byzantine era to the 19th century. A stroll across the main cobbled path, beginning at the town’s gate, leads visitors to all the significant attractions.
The Elkomenou Hristou church and the archaeological museum are situated at the main square of the fortified city. From there, a cobbled path heads up to Epano Kastro, or Goula, where small guesthouses (housed at listed buildings) transform stays here into special experiences. The surrounding area is ideal for excursions into nature.
Mountains of Corinth
Renowned Trikala (Corinthia), Goura and Feneos, in the Peloponnese’s northeast, are a combination of destinations offering nature, delicious quality food and fine accommodation. Trikala (Corinthia), divided into three sections – Ano (Upper), Mesaia (Middle) and Kato (Lower) Trikala – is situated on the northeastern slopes of Mount Ziria, or Mount Kyllini, at an altitude of nearly 1,000 metres. The area serves as an ideal platform for expeditions into the wider area.
Over the years, Trikala (Corinthia) has developed to offer a wide variety of choices catering to various visitor preferences. On the other hand, Feneos and Goura, both at the foot of the western slopes of Mount Ziria, are ideal destinations for visitors drawn to nature.
Trikala (Thessaly)
Trikala, the city in central Greece with pioneering – for the country – bicycle lanes, an extensive history, an innovative present and hospitable people, is an ideal spring-season destination. The city is divided by the Lithaios river, creating a picturesque setting.
The gorgeous Varousi district, featuring buildings with distinctive sachnisi bay windows, Profitis Ilias hill, the castle, and a renowned clock tower, offer unique colour and dimension to a city that has managed to bring past and present together with tremendous success. The city’s Manavika district, hosting dozens of tsipouradika, eateries serving small meze dishes with tsipouro spirit, is a great place to settle after strolling through the main pedestrian street, Asklipiou St.
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