Greece is a country that is mostly known for its sunny beaches, ancient monuments and rich culture. However, Greece also has a surprising number of ski resorts that offer a different way to enjoy its natural beauty and diversity. In this blog post, we will explore some of the best ski resorts in Greece, their weather and snow conditions, and the best time to visit them.
Top 7 Ski Resorts in Greece
According to various sources , some of the best ski resorts in Greece are:
- Parnassos Ski Centre: This is the closest ski resort to Athens and the largest ski centre in Greece. It has two skiing areas, Kellaria and Fterolakas, with 21 pistes, 7 ski routes and 4 mini pistes for beginners. The altitude ranges from 1581 m to 2250 m, and the slopes offer wonderful views of the Gulf of Corinth and the Gulf of Euboea. The ski centre also has two cosy chalets, a ski equipment rental store, a souvenir store and a ski school.
- Kalavrita Ski Centre: This is the second largest ski resort in Greece, located 14 km away from the city of Kalavrita and 203 km far from Athens. It has 12 pistes, 8 ski lifts and a snow park for snowboarders. The altitude ranges from 1700 m to 2325 m, and the slopes overlook the Vouraikos gorge and the Helmos mountain range. The ski centre also has a chalet, a ski equipment rental store, a souvenir store and a ski school.
- Mount Olympus Elatochori Ski Centre: This is a relatively new ski resort, located on the mythical Mount Olympus, the highest mountain in Greece and the home of the ancient gods. It has 10 pistes, 5 ski lifts and a snow park for snowboarders. The altitude ranges from 1410 m to 1912 m, and the slopes offer panoramic views of the Thermaic Gulf and the Pieria mountains. The ski centre also has a chalet, a ski equipment rental store, a souvenir store and a ski school.
- Seli Ski Resort: This is the oldest ski resort in Greece, with people skiing here since the early 1930s. It has 17 pistes, 11 ski lifts and a snow park for snowboarders. The altitude ranges from 1500 m to 1890 m, and the slopes are surrounded by pine forests and rocky peaks. The ski centre also has two chalets, a ski equipment rental store, a souvenir store and a ski school.
- 3 – 5 Pigadia: This is one of the most modern ski resorts in Greece, located near the city of Naousa in Macedonia. It has 9 pistes, 7 ski lifts and a snow park for snowboarders. The altitude ranges from 1420 m to 2005 m, and the slopes are covered with artificial snow when needed. The ski centre also has a chalet, a ski equipment rental store, a souvenir store and a ski school.
- Ski Centre Voras – Kaimaktsalan: This is one of the highest ski resorts in Greece, located on the border with North Macedonia. It has 10 pistes, 5 ski lifts and a snow park for snowboarders. The altitude ranges from 2022 m to 2480 m, and the slopes offer views of Lake Vegoritida and Mount Olympus. The ski centre also has a chalet, a spa centre, a ski equipment rental store, a souvenir store and a ski school.
- Vasilitsa Ski Centre: This is one of the most popular ski resorts in Greece, located in the Pindus mountain range in Epirus. It has 22 pistes, 7 ski lifts and two snow parks for snowboarders. The altitude ranges from 1642 m to 2110 m, and the slopes are known for their natural beauty and off-piste opportunities. The ski centre also has two chalets, a ski equipment rental store, a souvenir store and a ski school.
Weather and Snow Conditions of the Ski Resorts in Greece
The weather and snow conditions of the ski resorts in Greece vary depending on their location, altitude and orientation. However, some general trends can be observed:
- The ski season in Greece usually lasts from December to April, with the peak months being January and February.
- The average temperature in the ski resorts in Greece ranges from -5°C to 5°C, with the lowest temperatures occurring at night and at higher altitudes.
- The average snow depth in the ski resorts in Greece ranges from 50 cm to 150 cm, with the highest snow accumulation occurring at higher altitudes and on north-facing slopes.
- The snow quality in the ski resorts in Greece is usually good, especially in the morning, when the snow is fresh and powdery. However, the snow can become icy or slushy in the afternoon, when the sun melts and refreezes it.
- The weather in the ski resorts in Greece can be unpredictable, with frequent changes of sun, clouds, wind, rain and snow. Therefore, it is advisable to check the weather forecast and the snow report before heading to the slopes.
Best Time to Visit the Ski Resorts in Greece
The best time to visit the ski resorts in Greece depends on your personal preferences and expectations. However, some general tips can be given:
- If you want to enjoy the best snow conditions and avoid the crowds, you should visit the ski resorts in Greece in January or February, preferably on weekdays.
- If you want to enjoy milder temperatures and longer days, you should visit the ski resorts in Greece in March or April, preferably on weekends.
- If you want to combine skiing with sightseeing and cultural activities, you should visit the ski resorts in Greece that are close to important historic sites, such as Delphi, Kalavrita, Olympus or Metsovo.
- If you want to experience the Greek hospitality and cuisine, you should visit the ski resorts in Greece that have nearby villages or towns with traditional architecture, local products and lively nightlife, such as Arahova, Naousa, Florina or Grevena.
Conclusion
Greece is a country that offers more than just sun and sea. It also has a variety of ski resorts that cater to different tastes and levels of skiers and snowboarders. Whether you are looking for challenging slopes, stunning views, natural beauty or cultural attractions, you will find them in the ski resorts in Greece. So, pack your skis or snowboard and get ready to discover a different side of Greece!
: https://www.skiresort.info/ski-resorts/greece/
: https://www.definitelygreece.com/ski-resorts-greece/
: https://travelthegreekway.com/ski-resorts-in-greece/
: https://www.cuddlynest.com/blog/skiing-in-greece/
