A Few Words from Us
All our routes are designed to start and finish in Portaria, usually at a convenient parking area. Of course, you’re free to begin your hike from any point you prefer.
The trails are all well-trodden and easy to follow, with many featuring signposts and markings (for example, orange “Pelion Routes” signs).
We recommend using the Strava app, which offers detailed route information and trail maps. You can download it for free and view all the routes right on your phone.
The following routes are not part of an organized activity but are simply suggested in a public outdoor setting. Each person is responsible for their own safety and choices along the way.
About Our Mountain
Flora
Pelion’s vegetation is incredibly diverse. You’ll come across chestnut, beech, oak, and plane trees, along with a wide range of aromatic and medicinal plants, such as rockrose (Cistus creticus), valued for its anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties. At higher altitudes, you might also spot wild mushrooms, including porcini, parasol mushrooms, and chanterelles.
Fauna
Pelion is home to a variety of mammals, birds, and reptiles. The forests shelter wild boar, foxes, badgers, martens, turtles, and many bird species, such as hawks and owls. For those concerned about wildlife encounters: wild boar are mostly nocturnal and crepuscular (active at dawn and dusk), so you’re unlikely to meet one during your hike.
Hiking Essentials
✅ Clothing & Footwear
In summer, wear light, breathable clothing; in winter, opt for warm, insulating layers.
Dress in layers so you can adjust to changing temperatures.
Bring a waterproof jacket if there’s a chance of rain.
At higher, cooler altitudes, pack gloves and a beanie.
Wear sturdy hiking boots with good grip, durability, and ankle support.
✅ Backpack (20–30L is usually plenty)
Carry at least 1.5–2 liters of water.
Pack snacks such as energy bars, nuts, fruit, or sandwiches.
Bring a headlamp (and spare batteries).
Include a first aid kit (bandages, plasters, disinfectant, ointment for insect bites).
A whistle for emergencies.
A multitool or pocketknife.
A small trash bag—leave no trace behind.
✅ Extras (for more challenging routes)
Trekking poles to reduce strain on your knees.
Sunscreen and sunglasses.
An emergency blanket for warmth if needed.
A power bank for your devices.
Hiking safety tips
✔️ Check your route before you set off – know the difficulty level, the weather forecast, and possible exit points.
✔️ Avoid hiking alone if you can. If you do go solo, make sure to let someone know your planned route and expected return time.
✔️ Keep a steady pace so you don’t tire yourself out too quickly.
✔️ Stick to marked trails to stay safe and avoid getting lost.
✔️ Be mindful of the weather – in the mountains, conditions can change suddenly.
✔️ Respect nature – don’t leave litter behind, and avoid disturbing wildlife.
✔️ Skip dangerous crossings if you lack experience – safety first.
Dog encounters in the mountain
🐕 Sheperd dogs (most commonly found) will usually stay near the flock they’re protecting, they won’t attack without reason. Stray dogs need more attention, as they’re abandonded and usually afraid.
- Stay calm – Do not run or maintain a steady pace, avoiding sudden movements.
- Avoid direct eye contact (dogs may see it as a challenge).
- Take a detour if possible, or walk away slowly and casually.
- If they come too close, just hold something in front of you as a barrier.
- Speak calmly if you choose to speak, and continue to move away at a steady pace.
- Show with your body language that you are not a threat, keeping all movements slow and controlled.
What to Do if You Encounter a Snake in the Mountains
🐍 The most well-known venomous snake in the area is the nose-horned viper (Vipera ammodytes), the only snake in Greece with dangerous venom. Its bite leaves two distinctive puncture marks about 1–1.5 cm apart. While its bite can be serious, it’s rarely fatal—studies suggest there’s only about a 25% chance it injects venom.
The other snakes in Pelion, such as the four-lined snake (Elaphe quatuorlineata) and the Dahl’s whip snake (Platyceps najadum), are non-venomous and beneficial to the ecosystem, as they feed on rodents and insects.
👉 Precautions:
- Avoid walking through tall grass or dense vegetation.
- Don’t lift stones or logs with bare hands.
- If you see a snake, don’t disturb it—it will usually move away on its own.
If Bitten
- Keep the affected person still and positioned so that their heart is above the level of the bite.
- Rinse the wound gently with clean water.
- Call for help or an ambulance immediately.
Προτεινόμενες Διαδρομές
Circular Route: Portaria – Metohi
We start our hike from a spot where parking is available and where you can fill your bottles with fresh running water from a fountain.
About 300 meters in, we pass the Christian Summer Camp of Volos. Another 400 meters later, we come across part of the former Red Cross camp facilities, where—according to local sources—animals were once bred to meet the camp’s needs.
Following the trail and crossing the Anavros stream, we reach a charming wooden pavilion, perched above the small chapel of Agia Triada (Holy Trinity).
Continuing uphill, we step onto an old stone-paved path (kalderimi) that was once bustling with life, connecting Portaria with Hania. In many places, it remains just as it was back in the day!
When we reach the location known as “Metochi”, we turn onto the asphalt road for our descent, enjoying sweeping views of the Pagasetic Gulf all the way to the end of the route.
Circular Route: Portaria – Alikopetra
Our journey begins at the statue of Dimos Zoulias. We pass through the area known as Kanalaki and head enthusiastically toward the Centaurs’ Path! From here, we climb along the provincial road, and at about 3 km we reach the Monastery of St. Seraphim of Sarov.
The road from this point is mostly dirt track until 5.8 km, where we arrive at one of the area’s most iconic viewpoints. At Alikopetra (6.3 km), our descent begins along the old stone-paved path (kalderimi) that once linked Portaria with Hania. Much of it is still perfectly preserved, featuring the distinctive cross-laid stones designed to slow down the pack animals of the time.
At 9.6 km, we emerge onto the main road and continue until we find the next section of kalderimi at Agios Nikolaos. This charming path leads us through the beautiful neighborhoods of the Saints Anargyroi parish and past the famous Papadiamantis Fountain, located right next to a grand traditional mansion. We end our hike where we first set out.
Circular Route: Portaria – Karya Stone Bridge
Time for a real adventure! We set off along the asphalt road, enjoying a pleasant walk toward the beautiful village of Makrinitsa, where our climb begins. After 2.88 km, we pass the Monastery of St. Gerasimos, and a little further on, at around 5 km, the chapel of Prophet Elias gives us a welcome boost of energy.
From here, the route continues along a wide, comfortable rural road until 7.6 km, where we take a turn toward our destination – the stone bridge of Karya.
After visiting the bridge, we return to the junction and rejoin the rural road that leads back toward Portaria. At 15.8 km, we pass the old St. John summer camp and descend for another kilometer or so, keeping an eye out for Centaurs along the Centaurs’ Path we’ll be walking through.
Crossing under the archway marking the entrance/exit of the path, we’re just a few meters from the finish line. On the way, we pass beneath the Monastery of Panagia Odigitria and by Agia Paraskevi (Portaria’s cemetery).
Circular Route: Portaria – Stagiates
This route starts just above our local football field, with its natural grass pitch, and the nearby sports facilities. We follow the provincial road downhill, and after about 350 meters, we pass by Agios Konstantinos. Before long, we find ourselves in the charming village of Stagiates.
Crossing the village’s central square—shaded by plane trees and home to a flowing fountain with crystal-clear water—we reach 1.5 km, where our climb begins. The beautiful trail winds upward alongside the Mega Rema stream.
At 3.5 km, you’ll reach the end of the path. Before heading back to the starting point, you have the option to visit the stunning, picture-perfect village of Makrinitsa.
The route ends right where it began, with all the local shops and cafés ready to welcome you—perfect for satisfying any craving after your hike!
Circular Route: Portaria – Katichori
We begin in the heart of Portaria and head downhill through the charming neighborhood of Saints Anargyroi.
After about 1.2 km, we reach the old (and visitable) olive press of Katichori. Continuing through the picturesque streets, at around 1.9 km we arrive at the Church of Panagia. From here, we descend to a rural road, which marks the lowest point of the route. From this point on, the climb begins!
Our circular path passes near several small chapels of Katichori, including the Church of the Dormition of the Theotokos and Panagia Megalogenni. When we spot the chapel of Archangel Michael, we know we’re nearing the highest point of the hike. Here, we join the asphalt road and begin our descent back to Portaria.
At this spot, you’ll enjoy stunning views over the Pagasetic Gulf and the villages you’ve crossed—perfect for snapping some photos! The final kilometer leads us through the lovely cobblestone streets of Portaria to our starting point.
