Jutting out into the gulf between Athens and Thessaloniki, the verdant Pelion peninsula is where the Greeks believed that their gods came on holiday. Laced with streams and rivers, this lush peninsula is studded with apple, apricot and chestnut trees, as well as 5,000-ft mountains promising beautiful coastal views. Accommodation options are wide-ranging, with our list of the best places to stay in Pelion including everything from traditional B&Bs to swish seaside hotels.

Coastal explorers will adore the pretty harbour village of Damouchari, just south of Agios Ioannis, which also boasts a quiet beach. Make your way along the peninsula for long stretches of shingle and small, sandy coves with crystal clear waters and bobbing fishing boats. Swim, sail, build sandcastles as a family and tuck into fabulous seafood feasts at family-owned tavernas.

Venture inland along the ancient donkey paths which criss-cross the region. Expect beautiful vistas during the harvest season, when the trees are heavily laden with fruit. Tsangaragha is a particular favourite amongst keen walkers, with the oldest plane tree in Greece set amongst picturesque apple orchards. Head further up for skiing on Mount Pelion during the winter months — a wonderful weekend destination for breaks from Athens. Whether you choose to travel in summer or winter, you can expect a warm welcome at your pick of the best places to stay in Pelion.

The Best Places to Stay in Pelion

For Traditional Charm

• Amanita Traditional Hotel is nestled within three acres of organic gardens, including an orchard and vegetable patch. Indulgent Greek breakfasts showcase garden-grown ingredients, and the setting offers the best of the mountains and the ocean. An affordable, traditional gem famed for its authentic Greek feel.
• Santikos Mansion was built in the 1800s and retains much of its traditional charm. Set at an altitude of 540m in the village of Vizitsa, the house has marvellous views of the Pagasitic Gulf and classic interiors with antique furnishings, wood-panelled walls and a candlelit dining room. A well-priced, hospitable base for those dreaming of stepping back in time.

For Romantic Luxury

• Six Keys sits right on Kalifteri beach in Afissos. A former boatyard, this pint-size boutique hotel is gorgeous. Six romantic rooms feel wonderfully private, with terraces, cosy beds and impressive sea views. Savour cocktails and fresh seafood at the hip beach bar.
• Sakali Mansion is a striking guesthouse in the heart of the village of Pinakates. Seven en-suite guestrooms feature classic stone walls, beamed wooden ceilings and lovely marble bathrooms. Gather by crackling fireplaces in the evenings after days of soaking up the sea views from the pool and terrace, or kicking back at the spa. Peaceful and romantic.
• Agapitos Villas & Guesthouse also promises dazzling sea views. Elegant rooms, suites and private villas have draped four-poster beds and big soaking tubs. Pretty gardens and modern Greek cuisine await. A romantic escape, with options for families to book entire private villas.

For Families or Groups

• Arhontiko Stathopoulou, a stunning 19th-century neoclassical villa, is full of historical treasures. Set on Mount Pelion, this heritage gem has individually appointed rooms and suites with antique pieces and original artwork. Guests of all ages will adore the pool and gardens, and the six-bedroom villa is wonderful for trips with friends and family.
• Minelska Resort offers six suites set across two traditional stone houses on the coast. Stone walls, wooden ceilings and glittering chandeliers create a sense of classic charm, and the best suites have sea views. Sip cocktails on the terrace after days of sightseeing. Extra beds can be added for little ones, making this a friendly family base for a beach break.

For a Mountain Escape

• Anovolios, tucked away in Agios Geogrios Nilias — the highest village on the peninsula, is ideal for adventurers. Classic bedrooms with roaring fireplaces and exposed stone walls sleep up to four guests, and the walking trails of Pelion's mountains begin right on your doorstep. A quiet country escape.
• Ta Xelidonakia is an intimate B&B in a traditional mountain village. Pick this place for the antique-filled rooms with carved beds and polished wooden floors, the lovely views and the refreshing swimming pool. The studio apartment sleeps three, and there's lots of hiking, mountain biking and exploring for outdoorsy couples, friends and families to do in the area.
• Hotel Olga fuses the laid-back charm of the scenic village of Mouresi on Mount Pelion with more contemporary interiors. Spaces feel fresh and airy, with an earthy colour palette, crisp linens and wooden staircases leading to cosy mezzanines. The roof terrace is perfect for soaking up magical views over breakfast.

FOR AN APARTMENT OR HOLIDAY VILLA

• If you'd prefer a self-catering option, we suggest that you visit our online partner Booking.com.

TRAVEL INFORMATION

• Fly to Thessaloniki International Airport or to Athens International Airport and travel by bus or taxi from there. Many hotels will be happy to arrange an airport pick-up in advance.
• There's plenty to see in the region! Contact our online partner Rentalcars if you would like to hire a car.
• Expect hot summers, with temperatures reaching around 25 - 30°C between June and August, which is also peak season. For cooler weather and fewer crowds, travel in the shoulder season — April, May or late September — when you can also find some great hotel deals.

STILL NOT SURE?

• Explore our list of all the best places to stay in Athens.
• Alternatively, expand your search to see our pick of the best places to stay in Greece.
• Or contact one of our friendly Gurus for advice.

Weather

Monthly Weather in Pelion