Walking in Greece is the perfect way to discover parts of the country that you wouldn’t see on ordinary package holidays. When the locals want to holiday in their homeland, they don’t head to the typical holiday resorts of Crete and Kavos, but rather the quiet and calm atmosphere of the Pelion Peninsula.
The Pelion is known for its stunning beaches and crystal clear waters, but the resort has more to offer visitors than just sea and sand. The scenic villages of Tsagarada, Portaria and Makrinitsa are all located on the peninsula and a visit, whilst walking in Greece, will take you back to a more traditional way of life. Tsagarada is known locally as the village of the flowers, but it is a 1,000 year old plane tree that visitors from all over regard as the village’s most famous attraction. The trunk is 14 inches in diameter and, contrary to the common law of botany, is joined by two other branches to form a seamless arm. In fact, some people believe that the tree bears more than a passing resemblance to a cuttlefish.
The village of the flowers is nestled underneath a giant mountain and the contrast of the region is further highlighted when you discover that this mountain is a popular ski resort in the winter. In the summer season you’re more likely to find ornithologists gathered around the mountain than skiers. This is because the resort is home to some rare birds, such as Booted Eagles, White backed Woodpeckers and Golden Eagles.
You’ll come across some truly spectacular sights whilst walking in Greece’s Pelion Peninsula, but the most famous attraction in the area is the church of Agia Marina, in the mountain town of Kissos. Every village in Pelion is framed by its local church, but the Agia Marina is unique. Inside you can see the stunning frescoes and spectacular works of art that adorn both the ceiling and walls. If religious art is a particular interest of yours, then you can’t afford to miss the town of Zagora. Although, none of Zagora’s churches are as spectacular as the Agia Marina, the Byzantine icons and sacred vessels make them popular with pilgrims.
Zagora is the largest village in the Pelion and, walking in Greece, you’re certain to pass through here at some point. One of the first things that you may notice about Zagora is the fragrant smell of apple blossom. The town is Greece’s largest apple producing region, so make sure you stop off en route at one of the local tavernas and treat yourself to succulent Milopita; an apple and pear spiced cake cooked with cinnamon, metaxa brandy and Granny Smith apples. In true local style, this desert is best sampled with a cup of thick Greek coffee.
According to Greek legends, the Pelion Peninsula was the land of the Centaurs and the holiday resort of the Gods. After visiting the Peninsula, we’re certain that you’ll agree the ancient Gods choose the ideal location to take their holidays.
![[Valid RSS feed]](http://mytravelarticles.com/images/rss.jpg "XML Feed For RSS")
![[Valid RSS feed]](http://mytravelarticles.com/images/icon_Rss.png "XML Feed For RSS"){kind=icon}
Category Rss Feed
Print This Article
Add To Favorites
