Mountain & Sea Guest Guidebook

Ioanna
Mountain & Sea Guest Guidebook

Sightseeing

Standing on a hill over the town of Platamonas, the thousand-year-old Castle of Platamon is one of the most impressive and well preserved castles in Greece. The castle was first built in the 10th century by the Byzantines and found its current form when being rebuilt by the Crusaders in 1204. The castle houses a church dating back to the early Christian period and excavations have shown it to be built on the ancient Greek city of Heraklion, the “first Macedonian city”. The castle is a 40-minute walking distance from the house, and it is an excellent opportunity for hiking, especially via the old train lines path, which has unique and amazing views to the sea and the village.
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Platamon slott
38 Epar.Od. Platamona-Penteleimona
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Standing on a hill over the town of Platamonas, the thousand-year-old Castle of Platamon is one of the most impressive and well preserved castles in Greece. The castle was first built in the 10th century by the Byzantines and found its current form when being rebuilt by the Crusaders in 1204. The castle houses a church dating back to the early Christian period and excavations have shown it to be built on the ancient Greek city of Heraklion, the “first Macedonian city”. The castle is a 40-minute walking distance from the house, and it is an excellent opportunity for hiking, especially via the old train lines path, which has unique and amazing views to the sea and the village.
Mount Olympus has been known as the home of Zeus and the major Greek gods since before the time of Homer. Near the foot of the mountain at the ancient Macedonian city of Dion, finds in the Archaeological Park and Museum of Ancient Dion suggest that Alexander the Great and his followers made offerings to the gods here before going off to battle. The area is a popular recreational site, where a lot of activites take place, like trekking, bird watching, paragliding, hiking and mountain biking, and have all become popular as visitors take advantage of the great amenities and explore the mountain. Enipeas Gorge and the waterfall at Rema Orlias with its isolated mountain pool are worth visiting!
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Olympos
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Mount Olympus has been known as the home of Zeus and the major Greek gods since before the time of Homer. Near the foot of the mountain at the ancient Macedonian city of Dion, finds in the Archaeological Park and Museum of Ancient Dion suggest that Alexander the Great and his followers made offerings to the gods here before going off to battle. The area is a popular recreational site, where a lot of activites take place, like trekking, bird watching, paragliding, hiking and mountain biking, and have all become popular as visitors take advantage of the great amenities and explore the mountain. Enipeas Gorge and the waterfall at Rema Orlias with its isolated mountain pool are worth visiting!
The first ancient theater of Larissa was built during the first half of the 3rd century BC, during the reign of the king of Macedonia, Antigonus Gonatas. During the Hellenistic era following Alexander the Great ’s death, Thessaly was part of the kingdom of Macedonia. The construction site, at the southern foot of the Acropolis hill, was dictated by the location of the city, and for this reason is not consistent with the Directive of the Roman architect Vitruvius on the selection of theaters position "should be made so that the theater is not exposed to the south, because the air trapped in the hollow where the sun fills the semicircle of spectators, wandering there and heated "(on Architecture, V, III, 2). The construction was associated with the celebration of theatrical and musical performances, as well as with political activities related to the administration of the Thessalian League. The earliest reference to the first ancient theater comes from an inscription of the first half of the 2nd century BC: it is a judiciary case referred to the violation by an individual, of the theater’s surrounding area. It's in the city centre with plenty of cafes, bars and restaurants nearby. Larissa is the capital and largest city of the Thessaly region in Greece, and is the fourth-most populous city in Greece.
Ancient Theatre of Larissa
2-12 Papanastasiou
The first ancient theater of Larissa was built during the first half of the 3rd century BC, during the reign of the king of Macedonia, Antigonus Gonatas. During the Hellenistic era following Alexander the Great ’s death, Thessaly was part of the kingdom of Macedonia. The construction site, at the southern foot of the Acropolis hill, was dictated by the location of the city, and for this reason is not consistent with the Directive of the Roman architect Vitruvius on the selection of theaters position "should be made so that the theater is not exposed to the south, because the air trapped in the hollow where the sun fills the semicircle of spectators, wandering there and heated "(on Architecture, V, III, 2). The construction was associated with the celebration of theatrical and musical performances, as well as with political activities related to the administration of the Thessalian League. The earliest reference to the first ancient theater comes from an inscription of the first half of the 2nd century BC: it is a judiciary case referred to the violation by an individual, of the theater’s surrounding area. It's in the city centre with plenty of cafes, bars and restaurants nearby. Larissa is the capital and largest city of the Thessaly region in Greece, and is the fourth-most populous city in Greece.
The Tempi Valley, according to ancient references, was formed by a great earthquake that caused a fault, from which the two large mountains, "Olympus" and "Kissavos", were divided. The rift allowed the waters that covered the Thessalian plain to carve their way to the sea. The area runs through the river Pinios between the two high mountains. It is easy to imagine that this is an area of ​​rich natural beauty, lush vegetation, and long historical importance, embedded in the European Forest Protection Network. The valley has a length of 10 kilometers and, at its narrowest point, it forms a gorge with a width of 25 meters and a depth of about 500 meters. In the valley of Tempi, the traditional chapel of Aghia Paraskevi can also be found, which is built in the rock. It connects to the highway with a hanging bridge, which runs from the side of Olympus above the Pineios River and is situated at a point of particular natural beauty.
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Vale of Tempe
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The Tempi Valley, according to ancient references, was formed by a great earthquake that caused a fault, from which the two large mountains, "Olympus" and "Kissavos", were divided. The rift allowed the waters that covered the Thessalian plain to carve their way to the sea. The area runs through the river Pinios between the two high mountains. It is easy to imagine that this is an area of ​​rich natural beauty, lush vegetation, and long historical importance, embedded in the European Forest Protection Network. The valley has a length of 10 kilometers and, at its narrowest point, it forms a gorge with a width of 25 meters and a depth of about 500 meters. In the valley of Tempi, the traditional chapel of Aghia Paraskevi can also be found, which is built in the rock. It connects to the highway with a hanging bridge, which runs from the side of Olympus above the Pineios River and is situated at a point of particular natural beauty.

City/town information

Palios Panteleimonas is a traditional village built on the slopes of Mount Olympus at an altitude of 500m. Palaios Panteleimon in recent years has developed tourism impressively with hostels, hotels, taverns, and restaurants and therefore is among the most famous winter destinations in Greece. Nature lovers can partake in activities such as mountain biking, hiking and climbing. View is breathtaking!
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Palaios Panteleimonas
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Palios Panteleimonas is a traditional village built on the slopes of Mount Olympus at an altitude of 500m. Palaios Panteleimon in recent years has developed tourism impressively with hostels, hotels, taverns, and restaurants and therefore is among the most famous winter destinations in Greece. Nature lovers can partake in activities such as mountain biking, hiking and climbing. View is breathtaking!
METEORA - an UNESCO Wolrd Heritage Site. Meteora monasteries – the miracle of Greece. Few kilometers northwest of the town of Kalabaka, the impressive rocks of Meteora are rising from the plains of Thessaly been one of the most amazing places in Greece. Many centuries ago, on these gigantic rocks with the breathtaking landscape reaching heights of more than 600 meters, it was formed one of the most important monastic communities of Greece. The Greek word Meteora means “suspended in the air” and this phrase aptly describes these remarkable Greek Orthodox monasteries. From hiking to paragliding to rock climbing, the area around Meteora is phenomenal for people who want to stay a couple of days and truly experience this one-of-a-kind landscape for all its magic and wonder (and get to see several sunrises and sunsets too — a major plus for photographers). Other activities near Meteora include rafting, Jeep excursions, canyoning, and more, so if you’re looking for an active side to your trip, it’s a fantastic place to stop. But even if you're not into hiking, there are plenty of delicious taverns and restaurants there to enjoy some nice, traditional greek food.
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Kalabaka
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METEORA - an UNESCO Wolrd Heritage Site. Meteora monasteries – the miracle of Greece. Few kilometers northwest of the town of Kalabaka, the impressive rocks of Meteora are rising from the plains of Thessaly been one of the most amazing places in Greece. Many centuries ago, on these gigantic rocks with the breathtaking landscape reaching heights of more than 600 meters, it was formed one of the most important monastic communities of Greece. The Greek word Meteora means “suspended in the air” and this phrase aptly describes these remarkable Greek Orthodox monasteries. From hiking to paragliding to rock climbing, the area around Meteora is phenomenal for people who want to stay a couple of days and truly experience this one-of-a-kind landscape for all its magic and wonder (and get to see several sunrises and sunsets too — a major plus for photographers). Other activities near Meteora include rafting, Jeep excursions, canyoning, and more, so if you’re looking for an active side to your trip, it’s a fantastic place to stop. But even if you're not into hiking, there are plenty of delicious taverns and restaurants there to enjoy some nice, traditional greek food.
In the region of Thessaly, a capital city lies surrounded by lush valleys, and some of the most imposing mountains in Greece. Larissa, with a population of approximately 130,000 residents, is a city where ancient history and long tradition in agriculture meet the modern way of living. Sightseeing and food: Point of departure will be the acropolis on the hill of Agios Ahillios (Saint Achilles, the patron saint of the city), a location which has been continuously inhabited since the Neolithic period. During the Classical period it constituted the citadel of Larissa. A fortress was also built here by the Byzantines during the early years of their empire. Today, only the 15th century Turkish market survives, constructed with the remains of older structures. On the southern slope of the hill we can visit the ruins of the ancient theatre. In close proximity to this theatre, was recently discovered a smaller one, which is also of great archaeological importance. On the top of this hill, amongst the old monuments, Larisians build their day-to-day life. This is the city’s most idyllic spot to take leisurely walks, and to enjoy the traditional Thessalian cuisine. A great variety of delicious meat dishes, a collection of the best Greek cheeses, wines, and tripouro from Thessaly, are served to you in tavernas, and “mezedopoleia” (where wide range of mezedes, little plates of food, are served). Drink a cappuccino, or taste the various types of coffees offered at the modern cafes of the city. Walk all the way to Larissa’s busy commercial centre, which is developed in an extensive network of pedestrianized streets. Go out on a late-night, or morning shopping; shop for you, your family, or your home, and stroll slowly around the city-centre. Combine your shopping experience with a visit to the Archaeological museum (Diachronic Museum of Larissa), or the Historical & Folk Art museum and the Municipal Library, or attend painting and sculpture exhibitions at the Municipal Art Gallery. When night sets in, enjoy musical concerts, or theatrical plays staged by the famous Thessalian Theatre, and discover the city’s bursting night-life in its numerous bars, night clubs, and interesting music scenes. But that’s not all. Spend a whole day exploring more beautiful spots of the city: the Alkazar Park stretches along the Pinios (or Pineios) river. Take long walks across the river, surrounded by big, evergreen trees, or take mini-golf course, and rest near small, ornamental ponds. The park also hosts an outdoor theatre during the summertime. Pedal past the magnificent mansions that adorn the town’s streets, and explore “Papa’s Mill”, a renovated architectural complex, where the old warehouses were located. Finally, at the outskirts of the city, on the road to Tyrnavos, visit the monument of Hippocrates, the father of medicine, where the tomb of the great scientist was discovered in 1826.
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Larissa
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In the region of Thessaly, a capital city lies surrounded by lush valleys, and some of the most imposing mountains in Greece. Larissa, with a population of approximately 130,000 residents, is a city where ancient history and long tradition in agriculture meet the modern way of living. Sightseeing and food: Point of departure will be the acropolis on the hill of Agios Ahillios (Saint Achilles, the patron saint of the city), a location which has been continuously inhabited since the Neolithic period. During the Classical period it constituted the citadel of Larissa. A fortress was also built here by the Byzantines during the early years of their empire. Today, only the 15th century Turkish market survives, constructed with the remains of older structures. On the southern slope of the hill we can visit the ruins of the ancient theatre. In close proximity to this theatre, was recently discovered a smaller one, which is also of great archaeological importance. On the top of this hill, amongst the old monuments, Larisians build their day-to-day life. This is the city’s most idyllic spot to take leisurely walks, and to enjoy the traditional Thessalian cuisine. A great variety of delicious meat dishes, a collection of the best Greek cheeses, wines, and tripouro from Thessaly, are served to you in tavernas, and “mezedopoleia” (where wide range of mezedes, little plates of food, are served). Drink a cappuccino, or taste the various types of coffees offered at the modern cafes of the city. Walk all the way to Larissa’s busy commercial centre, which is developed in an extensive network of pedestrianized streets. Go out on a late-night, or morning shopping; shop for you, your family, or your home, and stroll slowly around the city-centre. Combine your shopping experience with a visit to the Archaeological museum (Diachronic Museum of Larissa), or the Historical & Folk Art museum and the Municipal Library, or attend painting and sculpture exhibitions at the Municipal Art Gallery. When night sets in, enjoy musical concerts, or theatrical plays staged by the famous Thessalian Theatre, and discover the city’s bursting night-life in its numerous bars, night clubs, and interesting music scenes. But that’s not all. Spend a whole day exploring more beautiful spots of the city: the Alkazar Park stretches along the Pinios (or Pineios) river. Take long walks across the river, surrounded by big, evergreen trees, or take mini-golf course, and rest near small, ornamental ponds. The park also hosts an outdoor theatre during the summertime. Pedal past the magnificent mansions that adorn the town’s streets, and explore “Papa’s Mill”, a renovated architectural complex, where the old warehouses were located. Finally, at the outskirts of the city, on the road to Tyrnavos, visit the monument of Hippocrates, the father of medicine, where the tomb of the great scientist was discovered in 1826.
A city easy to love — Thessaloniki is home to fine food, rich history, stunning coastlines, and so much more. Vibrant and full of things to do, this Greek city houses Byzantine landmarks scattered through its ancient, yet modern terrain. Take a step back in time by day and spend your nights dancing at the latest clubs. And that’s not all: Thessaloniki is also home to some of the world’s most stunning beaches. Like so many cities in Greece, the history of Thessaloniki can be read through the different architectural styles found throughout the city. From the Roman period, you’ve got the remarkably well-preserved Roman Agora in the center of town, as well as the Rotunda and Arch of Galerius. The signature style of the Byzantine empire is found throughout the city but especially at Agios Demetrios church and the Byzantine Baths, both protected Unesco sites and not to be missed. Thessaloniki is well known for its amazing and varied street food, pastries and late-night eats, but it also has incredible fine dining. Its culinary heritage is as rich as its history, with influences from both Europe and Asia. Expect bags of bold flavours, spices and fresh ingredients sourced from the vast agricultural sprawl around the city. Most restaurants do their own spin on mixed meze dishes, best enjoyed with a glass of local wine. In the shopping district surrounding Tsimiski Street, you’ll find a mix of big brand shops and boutiques to offer whatever you need. Seek out independent Greek designers for handbags, jewellery and unique clothing – younger shoppers will love the modern graphic designs printed on t-shirts and vintage pieces from up-and-coming artists. Meanwhile, Bezesteni Market is a great stop to load up on herbs, spices and sweets to stock your kitchen at home, or to pass on as gifts. One of the best things about visiting Thessaloniki is that every period in the city’s history has its own museum. For the Ancient Greek and Roman period, visit the Thessaloniki Archeological Museum. The Museum of Byzantine Culture is breathtaking with its beautiful mosaics and iconography. Then fast-forward to present time and see how the creative heart of Thessaloniki continues to pulse at the Macedonian Museum of Contemporary Art. Arguably Thessaloniki’s best asset is its seaside location. The promenade is the place to be in the evenings, for a sunny stroll, ice cream in hand. During the day, jump aboard one of the many harbour cruises to get the magical view of the city from the sea. Thessaloniki is one of the most beautiful cities in Greece. To get a full view of the landscape head up to the Eptapyrgio Castle. It’s a fantastic spot to catch the sun setting in the sea and then watching the city lights flicker below. The White Tower is another vista spot that will take your breath away.
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Thessaloniki
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A city easy to love — Thessaloniki is home to fine food, rich history, stunning coastlines, and so much more. Vibrant and full of things to do, this Greek city houses Byzantine landmarks scattered through its ancient, yet modern terrain. Take a step back in time by day and spend your nights dancing at the latest clubs. And that’s not all: Thessaloniki is also home to some of the world’s most stunning beaches. Like so many cities in Greece, the history of Thessaloniki can be read through the different architectural styles found throughout the city. From the Roman period, you’ve got the remarkably well-preserved Roman Agora in the center of town, as well as the Rotunda and Arch of Galerius. The signature style of the Byzantine empire is found throughout the city but especially at Agios Demetrios church and the Byzantine Baths, both protected Unesco sites and not to be missed. Thessaloniki is well known for its amazing and varied street food, pastries and late-night eats, but it also has incredible fine dining. Its culinary heritage is as rich as its history, with influences from both Europe and Asia. Expect bags of bold flavours, spices and fresh ingredients sourced from the vast agricultural sprawl around the city. Most restaurants do their own spin on mixed meze dishes, best enjoyed with a glass of local wine. In the shopping district surrounding Tsimiski Street, you’ll find a mix of big brand shops and boutiques to offer whatever you need. Seek out independent Greek designers for handbags, jewellery and unique clothing – younger shoppers will love the modern graphic designs printed on t-shirts and vintage pieces from up-and-coming artists. Meanwhile, Bezesteni Market is a great stop to load up on herbs, spices and sweets to stock your kitchen at home, or to pass on as gifts. One of the best things about visiting Thessaloniki is that every period in the city’s history has its own museum. For the Ancient Greek and Roman period, visit the Thessaloniki Archeological Museum. The Museum of Byzantine Culture is breathtaking with its beautiful mosaics and iconography. Then fast-forward to present time and see how the creative heart of Thessaloniki continues to pulse at the Macedonian Museum of Contemporary Art. Arguably Thessaloniki’s best asset is its seaside location. The promenade is the place to be in the evenings, for a sunny stroll, ice cream in hand. During the day, jump aboard one of the many harbour cruises to get the magical view of the city from the sea. Thessaloniki is one of the most beautiful cities in Greece. To get a full view of the landscape head up to the Eptapyrgio Castle. It’s a fantastic spot to catch the sun setting in the sea and then watching the city lights flicker below. The White Tower is another vista spot that will take your breath away.

Food scene

Sun Beach is a hotel with an amazing beach bar open to non-customers as well (although during weekends and peak times might be really busy). The beach bar every Saturday evening hosts a Greek Night with live Greek music and BBQ. Food is really good and affordable. It's 2.5km (towards Nei Pori, but before the train station) and you will need a car to get there, you can walk around 30 minutes one-way.
Sun Beach Hotel
Πάροδος Ακτή Ηλίου
Sun Beach is a hotel with an amazing beach bar open to non-customers as well (although during weekends and peak times might be really busy). The beach bar every Saturday evening hosts a Greek Night with live Greek music and BBQ. Food is really good and affordable. It's 2.5km (towards Nei Pori, but before the train station) and you will need a car to get there, you can walk around 30 minutes one-way.
Bookovo – the best souvlaki in the area! Address: Nei Pori, Olympus Boulevard (that’s the village next to Platamonas, around 5km so you definitely need a car). Nei Pori also have amazing sandy beach if you decide to explore the place.
Bookovo
80 Poseidonos
Bookovo – the best souvlaki in the area! Address: Nei Pori, Olympus Boulevard (that’s the village next to Platamonas, around 5km so you definitely need a car). Nei Pori also have amazing sandy beach if you decide to explore the place.
Great for fish and seafood, and in the heart of Platamonas, by the sea.
Xárti
27 Odos Karamanli
Great for fish and seafood, and in the heart of Platamonas, by the sea.
Address: Hotza Karvouniaris – that’s under the Platamon Castle, you might need a car to get there, and it is right after the tavern “Kimata”.
Tavern "dolphin"
Address: Hotza Karvouniaris – that’s under the Platamon Castle, you might need a car to get there, and it is right after the tavern “Kimata”.
Probably the best place for good quality meat. Very close to the central market, in the village centre, right after the café-bar “Jam”.
Το Τζάκι
Γκατζά Odos Karamanli
Probably the best place for good quality meat. Very close to the central market, in the village centre, right after the café-bar “Jam”.
Another place with souvlaki, in case you are looking for something local and close to home. That's in the village centre of Platamonas.
George's Place
88 Odos Karamanli
Another place with souvlaki, in case you are looking for something local and close to home. That's in the village centre of Platamonas.
Stavento is one of the most famous bars in the area, with visitors of all over the country. The view is breathtaking and the bar has nice music and drinks - you can also visit for a morning coffee if you'd rather prefer the more "quiet" version of it.
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Stavento
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Stavento is one of the most famous bars in the area, with visitors of all over the country. The view is breathtaking and the bar has nice music and drinks - you can also visit for a morning coffee if you'd rather prefer the more "quiet" version of it.
Barchetta Bar is one of the most beautiful cafes - bars in Pieria. In the area of the new marina of Platamonas, overlooking the enchanting castle of Platamonas, and by the sea where you can see all sorts of fishes, the location is just outstading, and the view breathtaking.
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BARCHETTA MARINA BAR
1 Π. Μπακογιάννη
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Barchetta Bar is one of the most beautiful cafes - bars in Pieria. In the area of the new marina of Platamonas, overlooking the enchanting castle of Platamonas, and by the sea where you can see all sorts of fishes, the location is just outstading, and the view breathtaking.
The area of Galaria in the coastal zone of Neos Panteleimonas, Pieria is considered a “monument”, a characteristic example of Modern Industrial Architecture. It is located on the north side of Platamonas Castle Hill and is essentially the open northern section of the old railway line, following the closed tunnel section of the Platamonas Tunnel. At the Gallaria Bar you can enjoy your coffee or drink all day and night in front of the Aegean sea and swim in the crystal clean water of the area.
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Gallaria
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The area of Galaria in the coastal zone of Neos Panteleimonas, Pieria is considered a “monument”, a characteristic example of Modern Industrial Architecture. It is located on the north side of Platamonas Castle Hill and is essentially the open northern section of the old railway line, following the closed tunnel section of the Platamonas Tunnel. At the Gallaria Bar you can enjoy your coffee or drink all day and night in front of the Aegean sea and swim in the crystal clean water of the area.