Mountainous Nafpaktia, like all autumn and winter destinations, is a great choice both for more active types and for those who need to rest.
The two seem difficult to coexist, but that’s the mountain’s charm: you can sit comfortably by the fireplace, enjoying a hot chocolate in your wooden chalet, and, as soon as you cross the door, find yourself in nature, in the fresh air, that’s ideal for hiking in trails, by rivers, going climbing, and having a picnic in the dense fir forests.
Mountainous Nafpaktia is among the most popular destination during this time of year, with Ano Hora being one of its livelier villages, ideal for excursions in the wider area. Still, even with the increasing number of visitors, the place preserves its traditional character and is an authentic example of the Greek countryside. This may be due to the nature, that is so stunningly beautiful in this place, or due to life going on at its own pace indulging in nature’s every desire.
As do the small chalets and welcoming guesthouses. They are covered in stone, that protects them from the cold, and wood that keeps them alive. Let’s see a few lodgings that offer the ideal environment for the perfect stay in this magical place.
A chalet covered in wood
Close your eyes and imagine you are in a warm house, on a verdant slope. Imagine the bedroom, the living room, the balcony and the view. I bet what you pictured in your mind is not very different from this wooden chalet, that perfectly suits the alpine setting and promises a comfortable and quiet stay surrounded by the mountain’s beauty.
The chalet’s living room is impressive, with a large fireplace and comfortable sofas. The wood that covers both the interior and exterior of the house – with the exception of some stone details – makes the space warm and bright. The two bedrooms are of a similar aesthetic.
This lodging is in Ano Hora, at an altitude of 950 m. It’s part of a guesthouse complex with two similar wooden chalets, each 70 m² , a restaurant serving traditional dishes, a playground and a small deer farm. The guesthouse’s balconies are large and have an amazing view.
Althaia stone studio
Stone, wood and metal comprise the traditional guesthouse Althaia. The house is ideal for a mountain escape.
This guesthouse is also in Ano Hora at 1.080 m. altitude. Its main characteristic is its traditional architecture, something that makes it blend in with the alpine landscape. It has one bedroom, and it can accommodate two to four people.
The fact that the house is reminiscent of the past does not mean it doesn’t come with some comforts. It has a fireplace, a washing machine, a dryer, an office space and everything you’ll need for your children or baby. For your safety there is a fire extinguisher and a fireplace guard. Cooking may be a bit hard, as there are some house restrictions due to safety precautions. The main advantage of this lodging is its view, and the fact that it’s spacious and makes your stay comfortable.
A stone house bathed in light
This lodging, that is at 1.050 m. altitude resembles an alpine refuge. It’s made of stone and wood and offers peace and calm and a marvellous view. It has two bedrooms and can accommodate up to eight guests.
The feature you’ll love at this house is the many windows that offer warm light and an unobstructed view. The balcony will enchant you with its panoramic view, while the interior with the fireplace and the stone elements will take you back to the countryside of past times. During your stay breakfast is available and pets are welcome.
Stone villa with a playground and a pool
A stone villa with five bedrooms and five bathrooms that can house up to 12 visitors. It’s ideal for large groups or families as all of its spaces are large, and it has a pool and a playground. It’s a luxury house surrounded by nature. Apart from the necessities, it offers entertainment amenities like an HD TV, a record player, a Bluetooth hi-fi and auxiliary, as well as a videogame console. Breakfast is available during your stay, while pets are welcome. The area is quite scenic with many choices for outdoors activities, but also quite lively, with restaurants, taverns and cafés.
Villa Elia
Another villa, three-storey this time, within a three-acre estate. It has five bedrooms and two bathrooms and can house up to 10 guests.
The living room with the fireplace, the dining room and the kitchen are on the ground level. In the attic you’ll find a playroom with a second TV, board games and a king size sofa. The house is fully equipped, and the spacious balconies have a great view of the lush landscape.
If the weather is good you can use the barbeque in the back garden and enjoy your meal on the wooden outdoors furniture set, large enough for 12 people. The surrounding grounds include verdant gardens, a basket hoop, bicycles, rackets, balls and many more both for children and adults.