The fluffy, fresh snow covered everything, while, at the same time, the cold weather was milder and the sun was out. These conditions were ideal for individuals adoring mountain settings and winter breaks as they were fit for recreational activities in the snow and generally, in nature.
We arrived at the Pertouli ski centre in the Trikala area, central Greece, having shortly before left behind Elati with its tourist shops, tavernas and cafes. Along the way, from a certain point onwards, the setting became majestic. The road runs through fir trees. Some of the view at bends were incredibly beautiful, while the snow began to make its presence felt as we progressed further.
A large section of the forest, measuring 3,300 hectares, was granted, by the Greek State, to the Aristotle University of Thessaloniki’s forestry department in 1934, to facilitate scientific research of students. A number of buildings close to the village were designed by renowned architect Dimitris Pikionis.
We continued moving through the gorgeous forest area, rich in fauna. It is habitat for brown bears, roe deer, foxes, wild boars, wildcats and other species. We drove along in the comfort and safety offered by the new Peugeot 5008, a modern premium model. Its dynamic design, pioneering and advanced i-Cockpit, as well as the rich features, offered all the comfort we desired as we headed up the mountain.
Pertouli ski centre
The road running directly by the entrance of the Pertouli ski centre links Elati with Pertouli, meaning that no matter how much snow, the road is always maintained and open. The ski centre offers three pistes, one for beginners, one for advanced skiers and one for cross-country skiing with slants reaching as much as 40 degrees.
The centre also offers an entire park, providing visitors with the opportunity to enjoy the snow beyond the ski pistes, adding to the choices, before or after a hot beverage at the chalet.
Giorgos Polygenis’ life on the mountain
We spent many hours of the day at the ski centre. Upon arrival, we met up with Giorgos Polygenis, owner of Pertouli Extreme Sport (www.pertouliextremesports.gr), who was our guide. “The truth is that a lot of people believe skiing is the only thing they can do at the ski centre. This isn’t so. A wide range of activities is available for visitors to choose from, depending on their level of fitness and preference,” Mr. Polygenis noted.
A small wooden house, once the ski centre’s chalet, nowadays hosts his office. Mr. Polygenis had lit the fireplace and we sat there to continue our discussion.
“I was born here. I am familiar with every single part of the mountain. I left to study information technology, but this is where I wanted to live. So I returned,” Mr. Polygenis explained as his father, Mr. Sotiris, a friendly man with a smile on his face, popped into the office to check on things before heading back out to go to their horses. He was back quickly from the stable. “Everything’s OK,” he informed, then got into his white van and took off.
Activities beyond skiing
Besides skiing, the options at the Pertouli ski centre, Mr. Polygenis stressed, include snowmobile rides, accompanied by experienced drivers, through a specific route offering magical forest settings, as well as views of snow-covered meadows and the peaks of Mount Koziakas.
Horse riding enthusiasts can enjoy rides on well trained horses. If preferring motor-powered activities, the location offers quad bike rentals for rides along routes with all safety concerns covered. Archery, trekking, as well as mountain biking complete the package of choices available for visitors.
The light was beginning to fade and we headed back towards Trikala. A day filled with lovely adventures and images had been completed.
