Walking the Pelion Peninsula

This self-guided walking holiday explores the Pelion Peninsula in mainland Greece. It is named the 'Land of the Centaurs' due to its associations with Greek mythology, with its name coming from King Peleus, father of Achilles. Walk from village to village on old cobbled donkey paths, called kalderimi that were mostly built in the 18th and 19th centuries to connect the villages and transport olives and honey.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 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.

The hotels you'll be staying in are a range of small, family-run properties and larger properties with more facilities, and you will find a choice of restaurants and tavernas so you can enjoy the local cuisine each evening.