Walking Picturesque Pelion

ng in Greece is the perfect way to discover parts ofYou’ll come across some truly spectacular
the country that you wouldn’t see on ordinarysights whilst walking in Greece’s Pelion
package holidays. When the locals want to holiday inPeninsula, but the most famous attraction in the area is
their homeland, they don’t head to the typicalthe church of Agia Marina, in the mountain town of
holiday resorts of Crete and Kavos, but rather theKissos. Every village in Pelion is framed by its local
quiet and calm atmosphere of the Pelion Peninsula.church, but the Agia Marina is unique. Inside you can
The Pelion is known for its stunning beaches andsee the stunning frescoes and spectacular works of
crystal clear waters, but the resort has more to offerart that adorn both the ceiling and walls. If religious art is
visitors than just sea and sand. The scenic villages ofa particular interest of yours, then you can’t
Tsagarada, Portaria and Makrinitsa are all located onafford to miss the town of Zagora. Although, none of
the peninsula and a visit, whilst walking in Greece, willZagora’s churches are as spectacular as the
take you back to a more traditional way of life.Agia Marina, the Byzantine icons and sacred vessels
Tsagarada is known locally as the village of themake them popular with pilgrims.
flowers, but it is a 1,000 year old plane tree that visitorsZagora is the largest village in the Pelion and, walking in
from all over regard as the village’s mostGreece, you’re certain to pass through here at
famous attraction. The trunk is 14 inches in diametersome point. One of the first things that you may notice
and, contrary to the common law of botany, is joinedabout Zagora is the fragrant smell of apple blossom.
by two other branches to form a seamless arm. InThe town is Greece’s largest apple-producing
fact, some people believe that the tree bears moreregion, so make sure you stop off en-route at one of
than a passing resemblance to a cuttlefish.the local tavernas and treat yourself to succulent
The village of the flowers is nestled underneath a giantMilopita; an apple and pear spiced cake cooked with
mountain and the contrast of the region is furthercinnamon, metaxa brandy and Granny Smith apples. In
highlighted when you discover that this mountain is atrue local style, this desert is best sampled with a cup
popular ski resort in the winter. In the summer seasonof thick Greek coffee.
you’re more likely to find ornithologists gatheredAccording to Greek legends, the Pelion Peninsula was
around the mountain than skiers. This is because thethe land of the Centaurs and the holiday resort of the
resort is home to some rare birds, such as BootedGods. After visiting the Peninsula, we’re certain
Eagles, White-backed Woodpeckers and Goldenthat you’ll agree the ancient Gods choose the
Eagles.ideal location to take their holidays.