Volos Pilion Skiathos Skopelos Alonnisos
Magnesia Year-round tourism
Greece
>>>>>>> Contents 1. Volos The town, its history, economy and culture......................7
2. Pilion Mountainous Pilion ...............................................................................12 The Aegean beaches .........................................................................18 Pagasitikos gulf ......................................................................................20 Places of worship..................................................................................22 The people and their culture.......................................................24
3. Skiathos The cosmopolitan island ................................................................30 The beaches ..............................................................................................34 Places of worship..................................................................................36
4. Skopelos A spot of green in a sea of blue ...............................................38 The beaches ..............................................................................................40 Places of worship..................................................................................42 The people and their occupations .........................................44
5. Alonnisos An ecological paradise.....................................................................46 The people and their occupations .........................................49 The beaches ..............................................................................................50 The marine park......................................................................................52
6. N. Anchialos, Almyros, Amaliapolis, Pteleos The unknown face of Magnesia ................................................54
7. Sports and activities ...............................................................................................................................58
8. Traditional cuisine and products ...............................................................................................................................62
9. Mapp and ggeneral information ...............................................................................................................................64
4
>>>>>>> Magnesia The land of the Argonauts and the Centaurs
Magnesia: A blessed land, where legend, beauty and history merge. It was named aft f er the ancient ft Magnetes and acquired fame very early on. It is from here that Jason, in search of the Golden Fleece, set sail for the faraway Colchis in his ship the Argo. Old Pilion, as Shakespeare describes it, was the home of the Centaurs and the wise Cheiron, who legend has it was the teacher of all the semigods and heroes and taught Asclepius the art of medicine. With the unsurpassed advantages aff f orded by its ff history,
culture,
hospitality
and
tourist
infrastructure, Magnesia remains unrivalled. Pilion, the Sporades, the fishing villages in the Pagasitikos Gulf, f the homeland of Rigas Feraios, the f, dozens of beaches, its Ski Resort, the opportunity to do both water and winter sports and the alternative forms of tourism available make Magnesia the destination of thousands of travellers each year. Visitors can easily and conveniently access Magnesia using any means of transportation, which is made possible by its propitious location at the centre of Greece. The Skiathos and Nea Anchialos Airports are the gates that link Magnesia to the rest of the world. At the same time, the port of Volos links Europe and the Balkans with Asia and North Africa.
5
>>>>>>>>>>> Volos
The Volos waterfront
Volos, a town washed by the Pagasitikos Gulf and shaded by Pilion with its bej e ewelled villages. ej A large, modern and dynamic Hellenic town which Lady Luck smiled upon and placed in one of the most beautiful corners of Greece. The town, with the third largest port in Greece, is growing dynamically and is one of the loveliest towns in Greece, enchanting its visitors from the very first moment. Volos is one of the four cities in Greece which played host, with unqualified success, to the premilitary rounds of the football events in the 2004 Athens Olympic Games. Volos by night
7
Volos and Pilion
The Achilleion, a historical cinema on the waterfront 8
The symphony orchestra of Volos
Economic
traces of
development
permanent
meets cultural
human
blossoming
settlement in
and spiritual
the region. The archaeological site at Sesklo
creativity in a
modern town that succeeded in
Volos is the home of one of the country's
combining the neo-classic and the
most important archaeological museums,
modern and looks to the future with
as well as the Kitsos Makris Folklore
respect for the past.
Centre, the house of the painter H. Zogias in Anakasia, the Kontou Residence (Theophilou Museum) and the
Art was introduced to Volos at the
Museum of Folk Art and History
end of the 19th century, in the
of Pilion (former Topali
form of the great folk
mansion) in Makrinitsa.
painter Theophilos, and continued with another
The University of Thessaly
great painter, Giorgio De
is also based in Volos.
Chirico, son of the president of the Thessalian railways, Tsipouro and mezedes
Evaristo De Chirico, who built
The journey into Magnesia
the famous little train of Pilion. Music
begins at Volos, enchanting thousands of
education was also cultivated and has
visitors each year and satisfying all their
demonstrated remarkable growth.
desires: many comfortable hotels, nightlife and numerous opportunities to
The significant neolithic settlements of
sample the renowned tsipouro and
Dimini and
delectable
Sesklo are
seafood.
only a short distance from Volos. These are The Archaeological museum of Volos
the first
The Kitsos Makris Folklore Centre
A Mycenaean vaulted tomb at Dimini 9
>>>>>>>>>>> Pilion A unique blend of sea and mountain
Tzasteni
Pilion, the mountain of the Centaurs, was chosen by the twelve gods of Olympus as a summer residence. Today, thousands of tourists choose to explore it all year round. The mountain is synonymous to days of rest and entertainment. All forms of alternative tourism are available: horse riding, g mountain biking, g, g hiking, g, g g, mountain climbing, g diving, g, g sailing and g, fishing. The beauty and magic of the Centaurs' mountain lives on throughout the year. Here visitors can sample the renowned preserves, taste the delicious apples, pears and cherries and inhale the enchanting fragrance of the gardenia. Makrinitsa
11
Pilion >>>>>>>>>>>>>>>> Mountainous Pilion
The monastery known as Iera Moni Aghias Triadas at Gatzea
Archetypal villages adorn the slopes of Pilion. They are built on a densely-forested region covered with a variety of flora, with abundant waters springing up everywhere. The villages of Pilion are easily accessed via a good road network, as well as footpaths and cobbled streets, a true delight for hiking fans. Luxury guest houses and rooms available for rental with all the comforts make for unforgettable vacations. Just a few kilometres from the waters of the Aegean and the Pagasitikos, the Pilion Ski Resort caters for snow-white holidays.
Portaria square 12
Aghios Vlassis. In the background, Agria.
A mansion in Vyzitsa 13
A square at Zagora
Aghios Georgios in Nileia 14
T o main roads lead Tw
continues to eastern Pilion.
travellers from the town of
Most of the villages are
Volos to the Pilion massif.
found in western Pilion:
Inside a room of a traditional guest house in Portaria
Aghios Onoufrios, Anakasia, Alli Meria,
The first heads east and, aft f er passing through the villages on the ft
Stagiates, Katochori, Portaria, Makrinitsa,
Pagasitikos along the coast, ascends to
Agria, Drakeia, Chania, Aghios Laurentios, Kato Lechonia, Ano Lechonia,
the southern part of Pilion and
Aghios Vlassis, Aghios
ends up at Trikeri.
Georgios, Pinakates,
The same road branches off f nearby ff
Kala Nera, Vyzitsa,
Neochori and heads to
Milies, Afetes and Neochori.
eastern Pilion, ending at Pouri. Painting from a mansion at Aghios Georgios in Nileia
In southern Pilion we have
Syki, Argalasti, Xynovrisi, Metochi, Lafkos,
Heading north-east from Volos, the second road leads
Promyri, Platanias,
to Chania (1200
Lyri, Kastri,
metres altitude)
Katigiorgis, Milina
and from there
and Trikeri.
Bas-relief of stone from a home in Kissos
Stone bridge at Tsagkarada
Traditional houses of Pilion 15
16
The little train of Pilion
The train station in Agria
On our journey in eastern Pilion we
of Ano Gatzea, Aghia Triada, Aghios
encounter Kalamaki, Lambinou, Xourichti,
Athanassios in Pinakates, the village of
T agkarada, Mouresi, Kissos, Aghios Ts
Argyreika in Vyzitsa and terminates its
Demetrios, Anilio, Makryrachi, Zagora
route at Milies.
and Pouri, while in northern Pilio there are the villages of Glafyres, Kato Kerasia, Ano Kerasia, Kanalia, Veneto and Keramidi.
For 76 years, from 1895 to 1971, the little train of Pilion climbed up Pilion, transporting people and goods, and played a
A train with a history, the little train of Pilion crosses one of the
decisive role in the region's rapid development.
most scenic regions of Europe.
It begins its journey at Lechonia and
It was built by the Italian engineer
passes through olive groves, chugging
Evaristo De Chirico, father of the famous
along and whistling on its way up the
painter Giorgio De Chirico.
mountain. It makes stops at the stations
Mouresiou Square
Neochoriou Square 17
Pilion >>>>>>>>>>>>>>>> The Aegean Beaches
Kastri
The vegetation of Pilion reaches right down to the waves of the Aegean Sea and crowns beautiful beaches suitable for water sports and night life that ... leaves no room for boredom. Choreft f o, Aghii Saranta, Pouri, Ai Yiannis, Papa Nero, Fakistra, ft Mylopotamos, Lambinou, Potistika, Paltsi, Katigiorgis, Platanias are just a few of these beaches. Azure waters and dark green vegetation: a perfect combination for exquisite vacations.
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Ai Yiannis
Choreft fo ft
Paltsi
Fakistra Mylopotamos
Pilion >>>>>>>>>>>>>>>> Pagasitikos Gulf
The island of Trikeri
A calm sea, the sea of the Pagasitikos Gulf is ideal for family vacations. Agria, Malaki, Kato Gatzea, Kala Nera, Koropi, Afissos, Lefokastro, Kalamos, Chorto, Milina and to the west, Nea Anchialos, Mitzela, Nies and Achilleio are all golden beaches with a wide variety of hotels and rooms to rent. The picturesque tavernas on the seashores of the Pagasitikos cannot but attract those who consider themselves good food lovers.
Milina 20
Kala Nera
Afissos 21
Pilion >>>>>>>>>>>>>>>> Places of Worship
Next to the maj a estic old mansions, there are many churches, aj country chapels and monasteries that invite travellers to light a candle and also admire the magnificent architecture. The mountain's steep footpaths and cobbled roads lead to places of worship from another era: chapels and old monasteries with exquisite iconostases, valuable relics and priceless Post-Byzantine icons. In the churches of Pilion, under the mesmerising light of the candles, the world takes on a diff f erent aspect, loses its ff common, everyday countenance and is uplift f ed. ft
The church known as Aghios Stefanos at Tsagkarada
The monastery known as Moni Taxiarchon, at Aghios Georgios in Nileia 22
Aghia Marina in Kissos
The monastery known as Moni Flamouriou
The Taxiarchon church in Milies 23
Pilion >>>>>>>>>>>>>>>> The People and their Culture
The "Maides" in Makrinitsa
Pilion is rich in folk tradition, which has been left f untouched ft by time and tourist development. The folk artist Theophilos, some of whose works are housed at the Kontou Residence in Anakasia, which is now a museum, expressively depicted the life of the inhabitants of Pilion.
The Theophilou Museum
A traditional Pilion wedding 24
Traditional dance Young lady in traditional costume at Trikeri
Fishermen at Trikeri
The "Maides",
Cultivations
the May-Day
indicative of
tradition in
the life and
Makrinitsa
culture of the
that originates
people who
Cobbled road at Neochori
from the ancient worship of trees and
live on "the mountain that is the pride of
plants, or the Pilion Weddings, are all a
mountains".
reminder of a captivating history that repeats itself, f each time enchanting f,
In this exceptional and abundant natural
those who observe or take part.
environment, apiarists continue the tradition of the region which was blessed
The imposing mansions in the
with the scents and flora of the
lovely mountain villages,
mountain and produces a
the skilfully-
heavenly honey.
constructed cobbled streets, the stone
Boats continue to sail
fountains and arched
along the coasts of the
bridges are all elements of a
Traditional costumes of Pilion
Pagasitikos and the Aegean,
rich tradition of distinctive forms of folk
as they did in the distant past, returning
architecture.
with the day's catch.
Olive trees are mainly cultivated in the
In the isolated and wild corners of Pilion,
central and southern part of Pilion and
from the sea right up to its peaks nature
bear their blessed fruit, a commodity of
has been generous, endowing the region
inestimable value for the region's
with a beauty that has always marked
inhabitants.
the life of the
The cultivation of
inhabitants and
apple and other
provides magical
fruit trees in
moments to
eastern Pilion
those who visit it.
has developed and contributes significantly to the local economy. Apiarist Gathering the olives
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>>>>>> Sporades Skiathos Skopelos Alonnisos
A tourist's paradise, the Northern Sporades are only a short distance from Volos. The cosmopolitan Skiathos, the lush-green Skopelos and Alonnisos with its unique flora and fauna and the Marine Park, are the destination of thousands of tourists each year. Accessed easily by sea and air (via the Skiathos airport), the Northern Sporades, with its wonderful sea, will always be the holiday destination of choice.
Lalaria (Skiathos), the Panaghia chapel (Skopelos), Ai-Dimitris Beach (Alonnisos)
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Skiathos >>>>>>>>>>>> The Cosmopolitan Island
A panoramic view of the town
More than 60 beaches adorn Skiathos,
town of Skiathos abandoned their home,
the homeland of Alexadros
which since antiquity had been the hub of
Papadiamantis, the renowned Greek
the island, and built a new capital at the
writer.
northern part of the island on a high rock next to the sea, known as Kastro.
Skiathos is only 2.4 miles from the
Aft f er the Greek War of Independence, ft the town of Skiathos once
coast of southern Pilion and 4
more became the island's
miles from Skopelos.
capital. It is 48 square kilometres in In front of the town of
area, 12 kilometres long and 9 kilometres wide.
An ouzeri in the town of Skiathos
Skiathos lies Bourtzi, a verdant hill on a small peninsula.
The southern part of the island has
Bourtzi is the home of the Cultural Centre
undergone large-scale tourist
of the Municipality of Skiathos, which
development, while the northern side
holds cultural events during the year and
remains natural and unexplored.
particularly in summer under the title “A Dream on the Waves�.
In the 14th century, the inhabitants of the
Skiathos Port 30
The lake at Koukounaries 32
Located at the centre of the town of
the discerning tourist, while the
Skiathos, the house of the eminent
substantial growth of tourism has not
Modern Greek writer Alexandros
deprived the island of its architectural
Papadiamantis is looked up by many
heritage.
visitors to the island. The much-frequented, high society Presenting a modern countenance and
beaches, the tavernas, bars and clubs
quite a number of comfortable tourist
satisfy each and every taste.
units, from luxury hotels to rooms
Water sports along the island's coasts
available for rental, Skiathos is ideal for
are an unforgettable experience.
The home of Papadiamantis
Modern hotel 33
Skiathos >>>>>>>>>>>> The Beaches
Banana (Krassas)
Just a few of the places worth visiting are Megali Ammos, Troulos, Banana, Tz T anerias, Sklithri, Aghia Paraskevi, Marathias, Mandraki, Elias, Aselinos, Kechrias, Limenaria, Ts T oungrias, Vasilias Beach, Achladia, Kanapitsa, Kalamaki and the beaches of Kolios, Lalaria and Vromolimnos. Koukounaries, the most famous beach on the island, has been named the third best beach in the Mediterranean. Skiathos provides high quality comforts for intense yet peaceful cosmopolitan vacations.
Mandraki
Aghia Paraskevi 34
Kechria
Megalos Tsoungrias Koukounaries
Skiathos >>>>>>>>>>>> Places of Worship
The citadel
The churches and monasteries on the island played an important role in its history and culture. The inhabitants of Skiathos continue to visit these places on feast days, according to the island's religious traditions. The Trion Ierarchon Church is the diocese of the island. It is a three-aisled basilica which was built in 1846. The miracle icon of the Virgin Mary discovered in 1650, known as the Icon of the Panaghia Eikonistra, is kept in this church. The monastery known as the Moni Evangelistrias, which was founded in 1704 by Athonite monks, is renowned for the role it played during the years of the Greek War of Independence.
The monastery known as Moni Panaghias Eikonistras
The Trion Ierarchon Church 36
The iconostasis at the Moni Evangelistrias
The Moni Evangelistrias (above), the dome of the Moni Kechria (below) 37
Skopelos >>>>>>>>>>>> A Spot of Green in a Sea of Blue
Known as the island of forests, Skopelos
Milia, Aghios Yiannis, Perivoli, Limnonari,
is truly that, as 80% of it is clad in pine
Kastani, Glysteri, Loutraki, Mourtias and
forests that end in bays, ports and
Armenopetra are some of the wonderful
beaches of untold beauty.
beaches on the island of Skopelos.
An island with fertile soil, it has maintained its productive nature and is famous for its wine, one of the finest in Greece.
Hotels and rooms available for rental make for a comfortable stay in many areas of the island and satisfy even the most demanding of
Panormos, Staphylos, Agnontas, Elios,
Klima - Elios 38
visitors.
Traditional residence in the town
The town of Skopelos has
The Skopelos Folklore
preserved its island colour,
Museum, where artefacts
with its white-washed
representative of the
houses and picturesque
island's folk tradition have
cobbled roads.
The town (chora) of Skopelos
found shelter, not only aims to promote the historical
The old town of Skopelos
culture of Skopelos but also
has been proclaimed a listed
to create a cultural centre
traditional settlement and is
worthy of its traditions and
part of the national cultural
history.
heritage. The Skopelos Centre of Photography
The Skopelos Centre of
On the western end of the
Photography opened its
island lies Glossa, with its
doors in 1996, its obj b ective bj
many country chapels and
being to organise the
the beautiful seaport named
summer Photography
Loutraki, which is one of the
Festival, but also holds
places most frequented by
The Folklore Museum
events in Skopelos and the rest of Greece all year round.
tourists. Skiathos and Pilion are visible from Glossa. Here, visitors can also enj n oy nj
The Sentoukia, the unique
unforgettable sunsets.
ancient sculpted tombs, are found on Mount Karya. The archaeological site at Sentoukia
Traditional villages and modern hotels in harmony 39
Skopelos >>>>>>>>>>>> The Beaches
Perivoli Beach
The coasts in the northern and eastern part of Skopelos are rocky, while in the south and west the slopes form the magnificent verdant beaches of the island. The most beautiful beaches are concentrated in the south: Agnontas, Staphylos, Panormos, Elios and Milia are the most widely known, but there are many more beaches “enfolded� in pine-forest green.
40
Staphylos
Antrines
Panormos
Agnontas
Kastani
Klima 41
Skopelos >>>>>>>>>>>> Places of Worship
The iconostasis at the church of Aghios Nikolaos
There are 360 places of worship on the island: churches, country chapels and monasteries. More than 100 are concentrated in the town of Skopelos. The monasteries of Ai-Yiannis, Aghios Riginos, Timios Prodromos, Ta T xiarches with its Byzantine chapel, Aghia Barbara and Evangelismos, from where the town of Skopelos resembles a picture postcard, are just some of these places.
The convent known as Iera Moni Prodromou
The monastery known as Iera Moni Aghias Barbaras 42
The chapel of Profitis Ilias
The monastery known as Iera Moni Evangelistrias
The iconostasis of the Iera Moni Evangelistrias 43
Skopelos >>>>>>>>>>>> The People and their Occupations
Skopelos is a fertile island with abundant waters and large cultivated expanses. Trees bearing olives, plums, chestnuts, figs, pears, cherries, lemons and oranges, products that contribute to the local economy, thrive here. Research conducted on the island's history in the last few decades has brought to light a large number of artisans and folk artists whose presence and activities had contributed significantly to the creation of the island's unique character and are directly linked to its history. Naturally, the tourist industry is the islanders' basic and most important occupation.
44
Drying plums
Making the almond confection known as amygdalota at the Women’s Agrotourism Co-operative of Glossa 45
Alonnisos >>>>>>>>>>>> An Ecological Paradise
The Alonnisos Port
Calm is an inherent feature of Alonnisos,
the opportunity to get involved in
one of the first islands in the Aegean to
alternative activities in the island's
be inhabited. The island's old capital has
scenic natural environment all year round
found new life in the last few years.
(hiking, g fishing, g, g sailing, g, g visits to the g, islands in the Marine Park, etc.).
Now renovated, the aged houses of Palia (Old) Alonnisos never fail to
Alonnisos is the perfect place from which to head for
intrigue visitors, while a The amygdalota of Alonnisos
nature-friendly tourism has
the National Marine Park,
sprouted in the dozens of cobbled
where one may encounter the protected
footpaths and on the island's beaches.
species Monachus Monachus which lives in the caves of the island within the Park.
Visitors to the island of Alonnisos have
Traditional architecture of Alonnisos 46
Palia Alonnisos
Footpath in Alonnisos 48
The International Academy of Homeopathy
The
The old
International
terraces of
Academy of
Alonnisos, once
Classical
covered in
Homeopathy
vineyards,
is based in
today are
A chapel near Palia Alonnisos s
Alonnisos. It was founded by
clad with olive trees and plants and trees
G. Vythoulkas and is open in the summer
bearing fruit and vegetables. This has led
season.
to the revival of the old, traditional drystone walls.
The island has long since been a land rich in flora and fauna. Skeletons of
Even though the area surrounding the
rhinoceros, ponies and deers have been
island is believed to have the greatest abundance of fish in the Aegean,
found on Cape Kokkinokastro, while a sunken ancient city
fishing has never been
around the islet of Vrachos
popular on the island.
provides irrefutable proof
One explanation provided by historians is the fear of
of the island's great history.
pirates that kept the locals far Alonnisos' economy is chiefly
Fisherman with lobsters
from the sea. Today, however,
based on tourism, followed by agriculture
quite a number of families live off f ff
and fishing.
the sea.
Following a period during which
The fishermen of Alonnisos have
agriculture was abandoned in Palia
established a co-operative and market
Alonnisos, agricultural production has
their fish themselves.
once more started to grow.
49
Alonnisos >>>>>>>>>> The Beaches
Votsi
The north-western part of the island is rugged, while in the south-west one encounters magnificent beaches. Votsi, Steni Vala, Kalamakia, Chrysi Milia, Mikros Mourtias, Megalos Mourtias, Vrysitsa, Kokkinokastro, Marpounta, Aghios Demetrios and Dj D ordj d i Yialos are only some of the dj beaches on the island that exhibit the grandeur of the Aegean. Patitiri, the island's port, and Votsi, which have practically met to form one town, are where most of the islanders live.
50
Megali Ammos
Steni Vala
Kokkinokastro
Marpounta
Aghios Demetrios
D ordj Dj d i Yialos dj 51
Alonnisos >>>>>>>>>>>> The Marine Park
Beach at Psathoura
They are referred to as desert islands,
close, enj n oy the exceptional natural nj
yet are full of life, being the ideal habitat
environment of the Park and, if fortunate,
of rare flora and fauna.
encounter a Mediterranean seal, naturally always adhering to the restrictions enforced.
They are located next to Alonnisos and form the
A visit to the Marine Park
core of the Marine Park.
from Alonnisos is easily
They are Peristera, Dyo Monastery at Kyra-Panaghia
Adelphi, Kyra-Panaghia,
achieved as day trips to the
Skantzoura,
Erimonisa
Yioura, Piperi and
(Desert Islands)
Psathoura.
are organised continually.
The island of
The boat trip to
Piperi is at the
Psathoura, the
centre of the
monastery of
Marine Park and
Kyra-Panaghia or
it is forbidden to
the bay of
approach it.
Planitis,
Nevertheless,
accompanied by
visitors can get
dolphins, is an
to know the
unforgettable
region from up
experience.
Traditional olive oil press at Kyra-Panaghia 52
The sunken city at Psathoura
Dolphin and Mediterranean seal at the Alonnisos Marine Park 53
>>>> Nea Anchialos Almyros Amaliapolis Pteleos Achilleio The Unknown Face of Magnesia
Amaliapolis
Nea Anchialos
It is in the western part of Magnesia, a region with a rich history that goes back for centuries, that we encounter Velestino, Nea Anchialos, Almyros, Amaliapolis, Pteleos and Achilleion.
The archaeological site at Nea Anchialos
55
Velestino, the
and a notable
homeland of
Archaeological
Rigas Feraios, is
Museum that
a short distance
exhibits
from Volos and is
archaeological
one of the most
treasures from
important
Phthiotic Thebes,
municipalities of
Pyrasos, Alos
Magnesia.
and other sites in the Almyros
Cascades at Othry
The town has been built on the
region. The
Enacting the Crucifixion n
fertile plain, the
site of the ancient Feres, a town which
age-old Crocion Field and the
took part in the Troj o an War. oj
Athamantion Field have plentiful traces of an important ancient civilisation.
One of the loveliest small towns South of Almyros, at the foot
in Magnesia, Nea Anchialos is built where the Homeric
of Othrys, we encounter
Pyrasos once flourished.
Pteleos with its medieval castle at the coast of
Many artefacts dating from
Pigadi.
the Neolithc Period (6000 5000 BC) have been found. Its
Winery at Nea Anchialos
eff f icient tourist infrastructure ff
In a scenic bay on the
has made it a favourite among tourists.
Pagasitikos Gulf, f further south from f,
It is also renowned for its fine wine from
Almyros, the picturesque Amaliapolis,
the famous winery of the Nea Anchialos
also known as Nea Mitzela, was built by
Co-operative known as Dimitra.
the refugees of the old Mitzela in Pilion, which was destroyed. Amaliapolis was
Approximately thirty-five kilometres from
named aft f er the first queen of Greece, ft
Volos, in the middle of a fertile plain and
Amalia, who had built her country
shaded by Mount Othrys, lies Almyros.
mansion there.
It is an area with rich cultural tradition
Achilleion 56
The Museum of Almyros
View from the citadel at Pigadi in Pteleos
The monastery known as Moni Xenias 57
Magnesia >>>>>>>>>>> Sports and Activities
In Magnesia, the tourist season lasts all year round. Visitors to Magnesia can enj n oy nj winter sports on the snowy ski slopes of Pilion or a dip in the sea of the Aegean or Pagasitikos in the summer.
58
The Ski Resort of Pilion 59
All water and
not to mention
mountain
the water
sports are
sports.
honoured in
Diving, g surfing, g, g g,
Magnesia.
water-skiing and
Playing in the
parachuting, g g,
snow at
available on
Agriolefkes,
many
skiing down
organised
the slopes of the Pilion Ski Resort, mountain climbing, g hiking up g,
beaches in Magnesia reward those who are fans of the sea.
the trails and walking along cobbled roads and horse riding on the lush green slopes of Pilion are only some of the activities recommended to visitors,
60
On the beaches of Magnesia, vacations are transformed into endless fun and games in the sea.
61
Magnesia >>>>>>>>>>>>> Traditional Cuisine and Products
The abundance in nature makes for
all conceal age-old gastronomic secrets
abundance in the gastronomic delights
within them. At the coast, fresh fish are in
of Magnesia.
high demand, while at fish tavernas, seafood and tsipouro, a
The apples, pears and
drink treasured by the
cherries of Pilion are
locals, are a great
renowned as are all the
temptation.
fruit produced in Magnesia.
Traditional tyropitta from Skopelos and spetzofai from Pilion
Besides, it is a common
secret that Magnesia is not only known
62
Besides the thousands of olive trees
for its unparalleled beauty but also for the
grown, the land provides tasty fruit that
delectable taste of its traditional dishes,
excites the palate.
the sweet flavour and scent of its fruit
The traditional dishes, ranging from the
and the unique way in which the wide
spetzofai of Pilion to the pies of Skopelos,
variety of preserves are prepared.
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>>>>>>>>>>>> Map of the Prefecture of Magnesia
64
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>>>>>>>>>>>> Useful Information
**International calling code far Greece: (+30)
Prefecture of Magnesia Committee for Tourism Promotion (N.E.T.Âś.): Tel.: 24210-75.341, Tel./Fax: 24210-70.932 e-mails: netp@otenet.gr & info@magnesia-tourism.gr Website: http://www.magnesia-tourism.gr Tourism Directory of Thessaly Region (E.O.T.): Tel.: 24210-37.417, 24210-36.233, 24210-23.500, Fax: 24210-24.750 e-mail: pereotth@otenet.gr Chamber of Magnesia: Tel.: 24210-23271, 24210-23.766, Fax: 24210-31.211 e-mail: info@c-magnesia.gr Website: http://www.c-magnesia.gr Municipalities & Communities Municipality or Community Seat Agria Municipality Agria Aisonia Municipality Dimini Alonnisos Municipality Alonnisos Almyros Municipality Almyros Argalasti Municipality Argalasti Artemis Municipality Ano Lechonia Afetes Municipality Neochori Volos Municipality Volos
Distances* 7,4 km 5,3 km 87,0 nm 35,0 km 40,5 km 11,7 km 35,0 km -
Zagora Municipality Iolkos Municipality Karla Municipality Milies Municipality Mouressi Municipality
Zagora Anakasia Stefanovikio Milies Tsangarada
47,0 km 5,0 km 28,0 km 28,0 km 55,0 km
N. Anchialos Municipality Nea Ionia Municipality Portaria Municipality Pteleos Municipality Sipiada Municipality Skiathos Municipality Skopelos Municipality Sourpi Municipality Ferres Municipality Anavra Community Keramidi Community Makrinitsa Community Trikeri Community
Nea Anchialos Nea Ionia Portaria Pteleos Lafkos Skiathos Skopelos Sourpi Velestino Anavra Keramidi Makrinitsa Trikeri
19,0 km 2,0 km 13,6 km 60,0 km 56,4 km 41,0 nm 60,0 nm 51,0 km 20,5 km 72,0 km 43,5 km 16,2 km 87,0 km
Telephone** 24280-92.352 24213-53.601 24240-65.555 24220-29.203 24230-54.219 24280-93.249 24230-55.450 24210-30.930 24210-82361/2 24260-22.520 24213-53.522 24253-50.100 24230-86.204 24260-31.205 24260-49.238 24283-50.303 24210-91.305 24283-50.100 24220-41.227 24233-50.417 24270-22.022 24240-22.205 24220-31.201 24253-50.200 22320-91.210 24280-73.752 24280-99.140 24230-91.100
Facsimile 24280-91.388 24213-53.611 24240-65.207 24220-23.068 24230-54.444 24280-86.995 24230-55.069 24210-30.940 24210-82.363 24260-23.128 24213-53.503 24253-50.111 24230-86.892 24260-31.204 24260-49.793 24280-78.715 24210-68.448 24283-50.102 24220-41.861 24230-66.040 24270-23.150 24240-22.230 24220-31.688 24250-22.870 22320-91.030 24280-74.178 24280-99.140 24230-91.223
* Distances have been measured from the prefecture's capital, Volos. All distances are stated in kilometres, excepting those for Skiathos, Skopelos and Alonnisos, which are stated in nautical miles.
Tourist Police Volos, Tel.: 24210-76.987, Tel./Fax: 24210-39.065 Skiathos, Tel.: 24270-23.172 Archaeological Sites, Museums & Sights Volos Archaeological Museum, Tel.: 24210-76.455 Almyros Archaeological Museum, Tel.: 24220-21.326 Archaeological Site of Nea Anchialos, Tel.: 24280-77.057, 24280-76.468 Archaeological Site of Dimini, Tel.: 24210-85.960 Archaeological Site of Sesklo, Tel.: 24210-95.255 Archaeological site of Dimitriados Palace, Tel.: 24210-88.091 Kitsos Makris Folklore Museum, Tel.: 24210-37.119 Kontou Residence in Anakasia (Theophilos Museum), Tel.: 24210-47.340, 24210-36.987 Museum of Folk, Art and History of Pelion at Makrinitsa (former Topali mansion), Tel.: 24280-99.505 Chrissoula Zoyia Art Gallery, Tel.: 24210-39.644, 24210-21.664 Museum-Home of Papadiamantis, Tel.: 24270-23.843 Folklore Museum of Skopelos, Tel.: 24240-23.494 Skopelos Centre of Photography, Tel.: 24240-24.121, 24240-29.144 Historical and Folklore Museum of Alonnisos, Tel.: 24240-66.250 Mom/Association for the Study and Protection of the Mediterranean Seal, Tel.: 24240-66.350, 210-52.22.888 66
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Accommodation ñ Magnesia Association of Hoteliers, Tel.: 24210-20.273, Fax: 24210-20.618, e-mail: info@travel-pelion.gr Website: http://www.travel-pelion.gr ñ Skiathos Association of Hoteliers, Tel./Fax: 24270-24.240, Tel.: 24270-49.390 Website: http://www.skiathoshotels.g. ñ Skopelos Association of Hoteliers, Tel.: 24240-23.210, 24240-22.709, Fax: 24240-22.954 Website: http://www.skopeloshotels.net ñ Alonnisos Association of Hoteliers, Tel.: 24240-65.160, Fax: 24240-65.161 ñ Magnesia Room Rental Association, Tel.: 24280-93.260, TeI./Fax: 24280-94.559 ñ Skiathos Room Rental Association, Tel.: 24270-22.990, 24270-22.460, Fax: 24270-23.852 ñ Skiathos Room Rental Association “DIAS”, Tel./Fax: 24270-21.488 ñ Skopelos Room Rental Association, TeI./Fax: 24240-24.567 Website: http:/www.skopelosrooms.com ñ Alonnisos Room Rental Association, Tel.: 24240-66.188, Fax: 24240-65.577 ñ Association of Tourist accomodation proprietors and businesses-Thessaly, Tel.: 24210-22.934, 24280-92339, Fax: 24210-76.044, 24280-92.082 ñ Southern Pelion Tourism Businesses Association, Tel./Fax: 24230-71.230, Website: www.southpelion.com ñ Camp sites: KOUKOUNARIES (Koukounaries-Skiathos) Tel.: 24270-49.250, 210-88.17.983. ARGO (Horto Argalasti), Tel.: 24230-54.143/4, 24210-41.039. HELLAS (Kato Gatzea), Tel.: 24230-22.267/8, 24230-22.286. KASTRI (Platanias), Tel.: 24230-71.209, 24230-71.360. LOUISA (Platanias), Tel.: 24230-71.572, 24210-42.456 OLIZON (Milina), Tel.: 24230-65.236, 24230-65.600. PAPA NERO (Anilio-Mouressi), Tel.: 24260-31.319, 2426032.159, 24260-31.205. SIKIA (Kato Gatzea), Tel.: 24230-22.279, 24230-22.081 Transport Info f rmation fo Volos Intercity Bus Station (KTE§), Tel.: 24210-33254, 24210-25527, Fax: 24210-25248 Olympic Airlines, Athens: Tel.: 210-96.66.666, 80.111.44.444. Volos: Tel.: 24210-20.910, 24210-24.910, Fax: 24210-20.912 Skiathos: Tel.: 24270-22.049, 24270-22.229, 24270-22.200 Nea Anchialos Airport, Tel.: 24280-76.886 Skiathos Airport, Tel.: 24270-22.945, 24270-23.300, 24270-22.049, 24270-22.200, 24270-22.229, Fax: 24270-22.948. Volos Port Authority, Tel.: 24210-28.888, 24210-38.888, Fax: 24210-20.115 Skiathos Port, Tel.: 24270-22.017, Fax: 24270-23.720 Skopelos Port, Tel.: 24240-22.180, Fax: 24240-22.377 Glossa Port (Skopelos), TeI./Fax: 24240-33.033 Alonnisos Port, TeI./Fax: 24240-65.595 Agios Konstantinos Port Authority, Tel.: 22350-31.759, Tel./Fax: 22350-33.759 Volos Ferry Boats/ Flying Dolphins, Tel.: 24210-21.626, 24210-31.059, 24210-31.060, 24210-23.415 Volos Railway Station (O™E), Tel.: 24210-28.555, 24210-24.056, Tel./ Fax: 24210-23.519 Volos Taxi, Tel.: 24210-27.777, 24210-37.880/3. . Skiathos Taxi, Tel.: 24270-24.461 Medical Care Volos Hospital, Tel.: 24210-94.200/9, 166 (emergency) Almyros Medical Centre, Tel.: 24220-22.222 Velestino Medical Centre, Tel.: 24250-22.222 Zagora Medical Centre, Tel.: 24260-22.222 Argalasti Medical Centre, Tel.: 24230-22.222 Skiathos Medical Centre, Tel.: 24270-22.222 Skopelos Medical Centre, Tel.: 24240-22.222 Alonnisos Regional Clinic of Patitiri, Tel.: 24240-65.208 Alternative Tourism Information: ñ Prefecture of Magnesia, Committee for Tourism Promotion (N.E.T.¶.), Tel.: 24210-75.341, TeI./Fax: 24210-70.932, e-mails: info@magnesia-tourism.gr & netp@otenet.gr ñ Prefecture of Magnesia - Development Company SA (AN.E.M.), Tel.: 24210-92.600/2, Tel./Fax: 24210-92.620, e-mail: anem@anem.gr ñ “AGRIOLEFKES”, Pilion Ski Resort, Tel.: 24280-74.048 How to get to Volos Byy air to the Nea Anchialos Airport, then by road from Nea Anchialos to Volos in 20 min. Byy air to the Skiathos Airport, then from Skiathos to Volos by steamship in 2 hours and 30 min., or by flying dolphin in 1 hour and 30 min. Byy road from the borders: Eyzoni to Volos: 280 km., Eidomeni to Volos: 320 km. Byy ferryy boat from abroad to the ports of Igoumenitsa and Patras and from there by road. Distance in Kilometers: 360 Km from Igoumenitsa to Volos, 300 Km from Patras to Volos. Byy air via the Athens and Thessaloniki airports and from there by road or rail. From Athens to Volos by Intercity bus (KTE§) in 4 hours (324 km). From Thessaloniki to Volos byy Intercityy bus (KTE§) in 2 hours and 30 min. (216 km). From Athens to Volos byy rail (Intercity Coach) in 4 hours and 30 min. From Thessaloniki to Volos byy rail in 3 hours and 30 min. Consulates Dutch Consulate, Tel.: 24210-37.714. French Consulate, Tel.: 24210-88.114, 24210-88.914, Fax: 24210-88.138 PREFECTURE OF MAGNESIA COMMIlTEE FOR TOURISM PROMOTION (N.E.T.¶.) ADDRESS: DIOIKITIRIO, 380 01 VOLOS - GREECE Tel.: 24210-75.341, TeI./Fax: 24210-70.932 e-mails: info@magnesia-tourism.gr & netp@otenet.gr Website: http://www.magnesia-tourism.gr
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PREFECTURE OF MAGNESIA
N.E.Τ.Π.
www.magnesia-tourism.gr
Photographs: Michael Pornalis, Texts: Andreas Treskas, Design: Red Creative, Colour Editing: Ikona Digital Prepress, Printing: Antopack - Antoniou Publication Editing: Froso Karagianni-Kremasta, Photographs: Michael Pornalis, Texts: Andreas Treskas, Design: Red Creative, Colour Editing: Ikona Digital Prepress