Texts: Dimitris Varalis. Constantinos Dougas - Photos: Michalis Pornalis, Constantinos Dougas
Pelion is an ideal part of Greece for developing alternative forms of tourism. The region’s unique natural beauty, a perfect combination of mountain and sea, is well-suited for developing alternative forms of tourism activities.
Cultural - Religious tourism
|  The traditional character and history of Pelion's villages present excellent opportunities for developing cultural events based on the traditions and customs of the region (Traditional Pelion-style Wedding, Klidona Custom, Koulouma (Shrove Monday) Festival, traditional dance festival).
In addition the privileged position that Pelion enjoyed under the Sultan during the period of Turkish occupation contributed to the flourishing of the regions' arts and letters. It also created space for many monasteries and orthodox churches to develop, which today provide a plentiful resource for the growth of religious tourism. |
Environmental - Naturalist tourism
 Pelion's diverse ecosystem, made up of coastal, plain and mountain zones, supports the development of environmental tourism activities such as bird and animal watching, plant and seed collection, etc.
Pelion is a verdant and fertile area, with interesting bio-diversity and a wealth of water sources that support the flora and fauna, and that is sustained by the temperate Mediterranean climate. |
Walking, horseback riding, mountain biking
 Pelion has a great number of trails that are ideal for hiking, horseback riding and mountain biking, all sustainable forms of tourism.
The cobbled paths and trails, along with the Volos-Milies railway, were the only axis of communication between the villages and the capital Volos until the ‘50s.
Despite the years that have passed, many of the traditional trails are maintained in excellent condition through the care of local communities. These trails give visitors the chance to explore the mountain up close and in safety. |
Off-road activities - extreme sports
The unlimited network of the mountain's forest roads gives off-road motorcycling and 4x4 enthusiasts the possibility of finding an open playing field, while there are also many locations suitable for canyoning and rock-climbing fans.
Water sports
The Aegean sea and the shores of Pagasitikos bay are ideal for developing all types of waters sports because they combine the possibilities of the open sea (windsurfing, sailing) with those of an enclosed, calm bay (water ski, parapente, and canoe, etc.).
Winter sports
On Agriolefkes summit (1,460 m.), winter sports fans can enjoy activities and games associated with snow at the unique ski resort with a view of two seas! The Pelion ski resort is accessible from Chania village in the Agria Municipality, at about the midpoint of the Portaria-Zagora road network.
For information:
http://www.skipilio.gr/
