Pelion Peninsula

Tucked away in the Pagasetic Gulf in eastern Greece, the Pelion peninsula is characterised by sweeping mountain vistas, enchanting villages and hideaway beaches.

Named after Mount Pelion, which majestically overlooks the peninsula, this locality is all about lush local charm and the splendour of the winding coastline. A relatively untouched part of Greece, this is a region in which to embark on magical forest hikes to discover monasteries and wonderful waterfalls, or meander through chocolate-box villages surrounded by olive groves, such as Makrinitsa and Milies. The Pelion Steam Train is a great way to soak up the scenery while letting the train do the work. During the warmer months, visit the beaches at Agios Ioannis and Mylopotamos – or discover your own secluded stretch of coastline for a swim.

The vibe of a Pelion peninsula holiday is about the beauty of nature. For those who want a little urban buzz too, a visit to the small city of Volos is fabulous for a little shopping, waterfront eateries and day trips to tiny neighbouring islands. Elsewhere in the Pelion peninsula, discover seaside tavernas serving authentic cuisine amid a rustic atmosphere, or experience wines in local vineyards, where the vines have been nurtured by the one-of-a-kind mountain climate. And for those who enjoy the quirkier things in life, the Pelion peninsula has a Museum of Worry Beads in Portaria!

Skiathos

Your journey starts in Skiathos, just 12 miles long but with more than 60 beaches.  Gorgeous Skiathos Town has shady tavernas on a busy waterfront. The narrow streets of the bustling old town are crammed with shops, cafes and bars. You can rock the night away - if you want to. You can climb Medieval castles, stroll through forests, discover quiet sandy beaches and even take a rescued dog for a walk. Buses run five times an hour through peak season, linking resorts between Skiathos Town and Koukounaries, the best-known beach that is a crescent of golden sand fringed with pine trees.

Alonissos

Then there's amazing Alonissos – a gem for those wanting to get away from it all.  You feel the sense of calm as you sail into elegant Patitiri, the small town and main port. Some beaches have bright white pebbles or sand creating a vivid contrast with the turquoise sea.  Many beaches are surrounded by pine forests that cover much of the island. Alonissos is in Europe’s largest marine park which protects monk seals and dolphins. It has a rescue centre for baby seals.  Try to fit in a boat trip around the park.  

A romantic lustre adds sparkle to the marvellous Sporades Islands. Legend has it that one island was created by the love child of gods. Now two islands are the focus of one of the 21^st century’s most successful romantic movies, Mamma Mia.