Overview
Discover the contrasts of the region from the lush green mountainous interior to coastal trails on the Aegean Sea. The flora of the area is characterised by orchards, olive groves...read more and forests of oak, eucalyptus, walnut, chestnut and beech, wildflowers and herb-scented maquis. The mountain villages have whitewashed, half-timbered houses with grey slate roofs. On the coast discover hidden coves, sandy beaches and picturesque fishing villages and enjoy stunning views on almost every route.
Starting in Milies with its traditional Pelion architecture you'll start to get a feel for the region with its old houses, mansions and spring water fountains. Tsagarda is considered one of the most beautiful villages of the Pelion and is known for its 1750 year plane tree that measures 14m in diameter. On the coast at Damouchari you can see old Venetian houses and a Byzantine castle and enjoy an array of tavernas with sea views, the village was also used as a set location in the first Mamma Mia film. Heading back into the mountains enjoy stays in Chania and Portaria and visit the 'Balcony of the Pelion' at Makrinista for amazing views out to the Pagasestic Gulf.
Itinerary
Arrive in the traditional mountain village of Milies.
Today follow an old stone path to the village of Kala Nera. Take time to relax at the beach, have a swim and enjoy lunch at a small fish restaurant before hiking back to Milies (B).
Cross the mountains from south west to north east walking on a forest road and old kalderimi (stone paths) through chestnut trees to reach the village of Tsagarada. At the square admire the oldest plane tree in Europe, more than 1750 years old (B/L).
Our destination today is Damouchari on the Aegean Sea - following the kalderimi out of Tsagarada head first to the isolated beach of Fakistra where you can enjoy your picnic and a swim in the crystal clear blue water before following a coastal path to Damouchari (B/L).
Continue along the coast to Agios Ioannis and the magnificent white sandy beach Papa Nero. Ascend towards Chania stopping at the village of Kissos from where a transfer will take you the rest of the way to the highest village in the area where you spend the next 2 nights (B/L).
Follow the road up the mountain to the ski centre at 1580m and from there you can enjoy fantastic views of both the Aegean Sea and the Pagasestic Gulf. Continue through the forest of aspen and beech trees in a circular route back to Chania (B/L).
Today you will follow the path that was used according to Greek Mythology by the Centaurs, the half-horse, half-human creatures. The path leads us to the village of Portaria.
In the afternoon continue to Makrinitsa, another picturesque village of the area with many old mansions, known as the 'Balcony of Mt. Pelion', offering amazing views to the Pagasetic Gulf and the city of Volos (B/L).
After breakfast, leave Portaria (B).
Trip Inclusions
- Walk in the Pelion region, 'Land of the Centaurs' according to Greek mythology along kalderimia, ancient cobbled trails
- Reach isolated beaches where you can enjoy swimming in the crystal clear turquoise waters of the Aegean Sea
- Discover traditional mountain and coastal villages; lush vegetation of beech and chestnut forests; herb-scented maquis and olive groves dotted with wildflowers
- 7 nights hotel-to-hotel accommodation in a mix of HHH, 3-star and 4-star hotels
- All breakfasts and 5 picnics
- Management by your local Headwater-appointed agent
- Route directions and maps
- Luggage transfers between hotels
- Walking transfers on day 5
- Itinerary and inclusions are subject to change
- Price is for land, cruise and internal flights as specified. Flights not specified are not included
Hit the trails with Exodus - from challenging peaks to leisurely coastal and countryside walks. Read more
Exodus chooses their Leaders carefully. Professional, dedicated and are passionate about sharing their home countries. Read more
Wherever possible, Exodus chooses properties that are locally owned and that reflect the area you are visiting. Read more
Prices & Dates
There are currently no departures available on this trip. Either it's the end of the season and new departures will be released shortly, or this itinerary has been changed and will no longer continue. Feel free to contact us for information about when next seasons dates will be released or click here to view the general release dates for all destinations.
Tour & cruises prices are per person. Prices shown have savings applied, are subject to availability and may be withdrawn at any time without notice. Prices and trip information are correct at the time at this point in time, however are subject to confirmation at the time of booking and are subject to change by Exodus. For cruise itineraries, cabin images are sourced from Exodus. These should be treated as indicative only. Cabin inclusions, upholsteries and room layout may differ to the image(s) shown depending on the ship selected and your sailing dates.
