Greece is a country that is mostly known for its sunny beaches, ancient monuments and delicious cuisine. But did you know that Greece also has some amazing ski resorts that offer thrilling winter sports and stunning mountain views? If you are looking for a different way to experience Greece, skiing might be the perfect option for you.
Greece has 19 organized ski resorts that are scattered across the mainland, covering different regions such as Peloponnese, Central Greece and Northern Greece. Most of the ski resorts are located near important historical sites, picturesque villages and natural parks, making them ideal destinations for combining culture, nature and adventure. The ski season in Greece usually starts in December and lasts until March, depending on the weather conditions.
In this blog post, we will explore some of the best ski resorts in Greece and give you an overview of their levels of difficulty and safety. Whether you are a beginner or an expert skier, you will find a slope that suits your skills and preferences. We will also provide you with some useful tips on where to stay, what to visit and how to drive in Greece during winter. So, grab your skis and get ready to discover the snowy side of Greece!
Ski Resorts in Peloponnese
The Peloponnese is the large peninsula that lies southwest of Athens, connected to the mainland by the Corinth Canal. It is a region rich in history, culture and natural beauty, with many attractions such as ancient Olympia, Mycenae, Epidaurus, Nafplio and Monemvasia. It also has three ski resorts that offer a variety of slopes and facilities for winter sports enthusiasts.
Kalavrita Ski Center (Helmos Mt)
Kalavrita Ski Center is one of the most popular ski resorts in Greece, located on Mount Helmos at an altitude of 2340 meters. It is about 200 km away from Athens and 14 km from the town of Kalavrita. It has 12 lifts and 20 slopes of different levels of difficulty, ranging from green (easy) to black (expert). The longest slope is 4 km long and the highest vertical drop is 850 meters. The ski center also has a snow park for snowboarders, a ski school, a rental shop, a first aid station, a cafeteria and a restaurant.
The level of difficulty of Kalavrita Ski Center is moderate to high, as most of the slopes are red (intermediate) or black (expert). The slopes are well-groomed and maintained, but they can be challenging for beginners or inexperienced skiers. The ski center also has some off-piste areas for advanced skiers who want to explore the wild terrain of Mount Helmos. The level of safety of Kalavrita Ski Center is generally good, as there are lifeguards, signs and fences along the slopes. However, skiers should always follow the rules and regulations of the ski center and be aware of the weather conditions and possible avalanches.
Where to Stay: Kalavrita Canyon Hotel & Spa is a cozy and elegant hotel located in the center of Kalavrita town, offering comfortable rooms with mountain views, a spa center with an indoor pool, a sauna and a jacuzzi, a restaurant serving local cuisine and a bar with a fireplace.
Menalon Ski Center (Ostrakina)
Menalon Ski Center is a small but scenic ski resort located on Mount Menalon at an altitude of 1600 meters. It is about 162 km away from Athens and 30 km from Tripoli. It has 3 lifts and 7 slopes surrounded by beautiful fir trees. There is also a dedicated area for snowmobiles and snow tubes.
The level of difficulty of Menalon Ski Center is low to moderate, as most of the slopes are green (easy) or blue (beginner). The slopes are ideal for families with children or beginners who want to learn how to ski in a friendly environment. The ski center also has a ski school and a rental shop for those who need equipment or lessons. The level of safety of Menalon Ski Center is good, as there are lifeguards and signs along the slopes. However, skiers should always be careful when skiing among trees or rocks.
Where to Stay: Menalia Villas & Suites is a luxury resort located in the village of Loutra Ipatis, offering spacious and stylish villas and suites with fireplaces, jacuzzis, private pools and balconies with panoramic views of the mountains and the valley. The resort also has a restaurant, a bar, a spa and a fitness center.
Ziria Ski Center
Ziria Ski Center is a new and modern ski resort located on Mount Ziria at an altitude of 1500 meters. It is about 150 km away from Athens and 10 km from Xylokastro. It has 2 lifts and 4 slopes of different levels of difficulty, as well as a snow park for snowboarders. The ski center also has a ski school, a rental shop, a first aid station, a cafeteria and a restaurant.
The level of difficulty of Ziria Ski Center is moderate, as the slopes are mostly red (intermediate) or black (expert). The slopes are suitable for skiers who have some experience and want to improve their skills. The ski center also has some off-piste areas for adventurous skiers who want to enjoy the natural beauty of Mount Ziria. The level of safety of Ziria Ski Center is good, as there are lifeguards, signs and fences along the slopes. However, skiers should always check the weather forecast and the snow conditions before skiing.
Where to Stay: Sikyon Coast Hotel & Resort is a luxurious beachfront hotel located in Xylokastro, offering elegant rooms and suites with sea views, a private beach, an outdoor pool, a spa center with an indoor pool, a sauna and a hammam, a restaurant serving Mediterranean cuisine and a bar with live music.
Ski Resorts in Central Greece
Central Greece is the region that covers the central part of the mainland, including Attica, Boeotia, Euboea, Phthiotis and Phocis. It is a region with diverse landscapes, from the urban metropolis of Athens to the rural countryside of Evia. It also has three ski resorts that offer some of the best skiing experiences in Greece.
Parnassos Ski Center
Parnassos Ski Center is the largest and most famous ski resort in Greece, located on Mount Parnassos at an altitude of 2300 meters. It is about 180 km away from Athens and 25 km from Arachova. It has two sites, Fterolakka and Kelaria, which are connected by lifts and slopes. It has 13 lifts and 17 slopes of different levels of difficulty, as well as two snow parks for snowboarders. The ski center also has two ski schools, two rental shops, two first aid stations, two cafeterias and two restaurants.
The level of difficulty of Parnassos Ski Center is moderate to high, as most of the slopes are red (intermediate) or black (expert). The slopes are well-groomed and maintained, but they can be crowded during weekends or holidays. The ski center also has some off-piste areas for advanced skiers who want to challenge themselves. The level of safety of Parnassos Ski Center is good, as there are lifeguards, signs and fences along the slopes. However, skiers should always respect the speed limits and the right of way rules.
Where to Stay: Aegli Resort & Spa is a luxurious hotel located in Arachova, offering spacious and elegant rooms and suites with fireplaces, jacuzzis and balconies with mountain views. The hotel also has an indoor pool, a spa center with a sauna and a hammam, a restaurant serving local cuisine and a bar with a fireplace.
Velouchi Ski Center
Velouchi Ski Center is a small but charming ski resort located on Mount Velouchi at an altitude of 1840 meters. It is about 300 km away from Athens and 10 km from Karpenisi. It has 7 lifts and 9 slopes of different levels of difficulty. The ski center also has a ski school, a rental shop, a first aid station, a cafeteria and a restaurant.
The level of difficulty of Velouchi Ski Center is low to moderate, as most of the slopes are green (easy) or blue (beginner). The slopes are ideal for families with children or beginners who want to have fun in the snow. The ski center also has some red (intermediate) slopes for skiers who want to practice their technique. The level of safety of Velouchi Ski Center is good, as there are lifeguards and signs along the slopes. However, skiers should always be careful when skiing near trees or rocks.
Where to Stay: Lecadin Hotel is a cozy
