When it snows – which is often the case- Nymfaio looks like something out of a children’s fairy tale.
Located at 1,350 metres altitude, this mountain village in Florina now popular among those who have travelled to north-western Greece is a real revelation for those who have not yet discovered it.
Nymfaio – originally called Niveasta (meaning nymph in Vlach) – experienced particular economic growth from the 18th century to the beginning of the 20th century, when it became known as the “stone jewel of Macedonia”. It was one of the largest silversmithing centres in the Balkans, with local merchants spreading both to the West and the East.
The village was first inhabited in 1385 and since then it has held an important place in the history of Florina. Although at some point most of its inhabitants abandoned it and turned to the big urban centres, since the early 1990s it has been revived, coming to life thanks to the contribution of important people hailing from there. Typical examples are its former president Nikolaos Mertzos, but also the Boutaris family – with Yannis Boutaris taking the lead. Since then it has become a tourist attraction.
Perhaps the most beautiful stone village of the country, Nymfaio stands out for its stately mansions. In fact, if you have time, it is worth visiting one of them to admire the old furniture, the oda (βedroom in the old traditional Vlach houses) and the painted ceilings. The way the village reveals itself as you ascend a winding mountain road is truly breathtaking, while entering the village, notice the beautiful arched wooden bridge connecting two impressive mansions.
There is so much beauty here that the village almost looks like a movie set. It is no coincidence that it is among the 10 most beautiful villages in Europe, according to UNESCO. The well-preserved Vlach mansions, the unique cobbled streets that run through the entire village, as well as the churches and squares, make up a unique landscape. In winter, when the snow settles on the galvanized sheet metal roofs that help it slide more easily, the village looks inconceivably scenic. The trails in the beech forest surrounding the village are also memorable.
Nymfaio is an ideal destination for travellers who love hiking, nature and historical monuments. Donated by the great tobacco merchant Ioannis Zan Nicos in 1928, the Nikios School is one of the village’s cultural trademark, while Nymfaio also hosts a Museum of Gold and Silver-smithery, Folklore and History, housed in a three-storey mansion in the centre of the village, known as Neveska House of Goldsmiths.
The area is also ideal for excursions to the Arcturos bear sanctuary – a non-governmental, non-profit environmental organization founded in 1992 to protect wildlife and the natural environment. There is, therefore, a brown bear sanctuary in the village, and a wolf sanctuary a short distance away, in the village of Agrapidia.
Don’t miss the opportunity to visit the Bear Sanctuary, which is located in a fenced area of 50.000sqm in a lush beech forest. It is home to ten formerly captive bears – the so-called “dancing bears” – that can no longer live alone in their natural habitat. You can also learn about the evolution of the species at the Brown Bear Information Centre, in the historic Nikios School building.
Location
We are in western Macedonia, in the regional unit of Florina. Nymfaio can be reached by car via the Egnatia Odos.
Accommodation
La Moara
In itself, this iconic stone guesthouse is a reason to visit Nymfaio. It was formerly owned by the family of Yannis Boutaris, so it still retains some of that aura and aesthetic, as well as the wine cellar, of course. From time to time it has hosted important personalities such as politicians, clerics, businessmen, writers. All of them are recorded in the guest book, through which a part of the history of the place comes alive.
La Moara consists of six regular rooms with one double and two single beds, two lofts and two living rooms with fireplace and comfortable sofas, from where you can enjoy the snowy landscape. In addition there is the good oda – as they call it – with a large fireplace, low tables, mattresses and rugs on the wooden floors, constituting the perfect accommodation option for a large group. (+30 23860 31377)
Athena
A guesthouse with a distinctive red façade, varnished wooden floors, hand-woven quilts, fireplaces, four-poster beds and an impressive dining room. All of this gives the old mansion a sense of luxury that is inextricably linked to the local folk motifs. (+30 23860 24195)
Enterne
A café, bistro and guesthouse housed in a building that since 1898 served as the main café of the village, called Neveska. In 1987 it was acquired by the Economou family and in 1990 it was reconstructed. In 2004 it was renovated and now it features beautiful rooms in traditional style with modern touches, as well as a beautiful attic. On the ground floor, there is a charming café-bistro with a fireplace and a warm atmosphere. (+30 23860 31230)
Nymphs
This stone building dates back to 1923 and is located in the heart of Nymfaio. Due to its location, it boasts stunning views. Recently renovated, it has a fireplace in the common area, a spa and a beautiful courtyard. Its rooms are named after ancient nymphs. (+30 23860 31114)
La Galba
Traditional in architecture, it is located in the middle of three springs: one of them is called Galba, hence the name of the guesthouse. The antiques, hand-woven textiles and some handicrafts of unique aesthetics, as well as the decorations and paintings of the mansion – in particular the large mural in the living room – are impressive. There is also a fireplace in the living room. (+30 23860 31314)
Activities
Nymfaio is ideal for a range of activities, which can make your days in the area even more enjoyable, whether you go with friends or family.
Horse riding
Sometimes horses roam freely in the village, walking along the narrow cobbled streets. In Nymfaio there is a horse farm, as well as a riding school, where one can practice the sport of equestrianism.
Hiking
The village is located next to dense forests, where many mapped paths lead to landscapes of unique beauty, reminiscent of the Alps.
Off-road routes
Unique routes on forest roads, through the surrounding beech forests, at various levels of difficulty.
Mountain bikes
For similar routes, but with rental bikes.
Food
In Nymfaio there are various restaurants and taverns, where you can enjoy delicious grilled and skewered meats, as well as the goodies of the region.
Visit the tavern “Platia” for delicious meat on the spit, grilled meat, stews, but also bushmeat (wild boar, deer). The tavern “Megas Tigris” has a nice atmosphere inside and outside (when the weather is good), while “Diporto” specializes in chicken, roast, stew and other versions.
Around Nymfaio
As one of the most fascinating areas of Greece, the wider region is of great interest.
Beautiful small lakes with a special ecosystem, Zazari and Chimaditis are both protected Natura 2000 sites. The former is fed by a small river that starts from Sklithro and then fills the latter. If you reach Limnohori – a rare habitat – you will also find “Del Lago”, a beautiful lakeside tavern where you can enjoy a meal or a cup of coffee.
In Sklithro you can also find the Folklore Museum, the church of Agios Dimitrios – built in 1812 and renovated in 1868 – the hill of Prophet Elias, the chapel of Agios Panteleimon and of course routes in the surrounding mountains that reach up to Lehovo.
Visit the village of Xino Nero and have lunch at the tavern of Kontosoros (+30 23860 81256), where you will taste excellent local cuisine: boiled trachana with cow butter, open pie with minced meat and leek, and sout macalo, i.e. beef meatballs with white sauce and saffron. You can also ask to go down to the amazing cellar in the basement, stocked with unique gems from Greek and foreign vineyards.
You can also have an excellent meal in Sklithro, at “Thomas” (23860/31080), one of the best restaurants in the country, with an excellent wine list and some rare bottles. By the way, take the opportunity to stop by the winery of Iatridis’ Alpha Estate for a guided tour and tasting.
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