Romantic Winter Destinations

Dreaming of taking your other half and heading towards a mountainous paradise? Wish
taking walks around cobblestone alleys accompanied by running water and the bird tweets
and chirps while inhaling fresh air? Fancy resting by ever-burning fireplaces in stone-built
houses which create an ideally warm and laid back atmosphere? The Greek mainland offers
all this and more! Discover multiple secluded villages that resemble a fairytale-like scene.
Heres a quick view of which romantic destinations are ideal for you around Greece.

Portaria

The first village youll encounter heading towards the top of Mount Pelion is Portaria. This
picturesque village, embraced by nature, has a breathtaking view down to the Pagasetic
Gulf and other surrounding villages. Beautiful mansions, traditional stone built houses,
narrow alleys aligned with flower pots, marvelous stone built drinking fountains, churches
and squares create this unique setting. It also is an excellent place to stay if you plan to go
skiing at the nearby Agriolefkes Ski Resort at 12km away. Dont
miss skiing or walking down the paths of Centaur around the village. When done with all
outdoor activities savour the mouthwatering delicacies of the area next to a lit fireplace;
taste the wild-green pies and spetzofai (stew with sausages and peppers) accompanied
by tsipouro. Then finish up with a delicious spoon sweetmade with love and care by the
womens association of Portaria.
Palaios Agios Athanasios

Located on Mt. Vorras slopes at 1.200m above sea level, this traditional settlement is
the leader winter destination in northern Greece. Its rapid touristic development is mainly
due to the Kaimaktsalan Ski Centre. If you are fond of activities in nature this is a destination
for you; enjoy skiing, trekking, horseback riding, climbing and rowing on lake Vegoritida.
Moreover, you can have a stroll in the village where youll come across old restored
traditional houses, beautiful guestrooms, picturesque stores and excellent bars or cafes,
ideal for nightcrawlers. Dont miss a stop by the Byzantine Church of Analipseos, built in the
17th century, and by Agiou Georgiou Chapel, where five trees seem to shape a human
body.

Papigko

Discover the heart of Epirus, nestling among the steep and snowy slopes of the Tymfi
Mountain range, where Zagarochoria Villages await you.
Papigko Village with its lovely stone built-houses and courtyards enclosed by heavy wooden
doors is built in between Astrakas Cliffs. The charming alleys and paths will lead you from
one fabulous corner to the other. Take the trail next to the Kallineio School and go all the
way up to Little Papigko. Half way there, youll come across the streams of Rogkovou where
small pools with azure clear waters are naturally formed (referred to as Ovires or
Kolympithres by the locals). The nice fact about Little Papigko is that no cars are allowed to
circulate within the village,making your stay even more peaceful and pleasant.
When food time finally arrives make sure to taste the flavourful cuisine of epirus in a local
taverna. Then head back to your guesthouse and lay back in front of your fireplace with a
good glace of wine. Cheers!
Nymfaio in Florina

According to UNESCO, Nymfaio is one out of ten most charming villages in Europe. It is a
traditional settlement, built in a semicircular form, within a breathtaking alpine landscape.
The surrounding lush greenery and the local culture is imprinted on the spectacular
mansions, which create an ideal refuge for nature and culture lovers.
This dreamy village welcomes you with its arched wooden bridge at the entrance. Make a
stop by its small cobblestone square and stay in beautiful stone built mansions, nowadays
turned into guesthouses, which reflect the past glorious days of the region.
Pay a visit to the Neveska Chrisikos House home to the Gold and Silversmith Museum, as
well as the Folk Art and History Museum. Then go by the impressive building of Nikeiou
School serving today as a conference centre. Make sure to enjoy a walk, horseback riding
or mountain biking around the oak forest as well as daily trips to the lakes Zazari and
Cheimaditida. Last but not least you must go see the Environmental Centre of Arcturos; an
institution for the preservation of the natural environment and a sanctuary for abused bears
and wolfs. Dont forget to try out delicious hunting recipes and home made pasta in the local
tavernas.

Vytina
Vytina is the famous village of Mountainous Arcadia. It is a noble, beautiful and quiet retreat
ideal for couples. Its buildings have a traditional architecture and the backdrop is ultimately
green. It is built on Mt. Mainalo, which is actually a blessing if you intend to go skiing, as
the ski centre is only 12km away. The extraordinary fir forest is where you can have
revitalising walks, try out mountain biking or explore its trails with 4X4 vehicles.
Start your journey from the villages square; see the stone-built church of Agiou
Tryfonaconstructed with local black marble; visit the Library which has a large historic file;
stop by the Greek School as well as the Folk Art Museum. Dont forget to take stroll
down a beloved trail, lined with tall trees, known as the Dromos tis Agapis (meaning road
of love).