Greece is a popular destination for summer vacations, but did you know that it also offers a variety of winter sports and activities? Whether you are looking for adrenaline-filled adventures, relaxing escapes, or cultural discoveries, Greece has something for everyone in the colder months. Here are some of the best winter sports and activities that you can enjoy in the Greek ski resorts or nearby areas.
Skiing and snowboarding
Greece may not be the first place that comes to mind when you think of skiing and snowboarding, but it actually has several ski resorts that cater to all levels of expertise. You can find ski slopes on the mainland, as well as on some of the larger islands, such as Crete and Evia. Some of the most popular ski resorts in Greece are:
- Kalavrita Ski Center: Located on Mount Helmos in the Peloponnese, this ski center has 12 slopes of varying difficulty, as well as a snow park, a ski school, and a chalet. It is also close to the town of Kalavrita, where you can visit the historic monastery of Agia Lavra and the Cave of the Lakes.
- Parnassos Ski Center: Situated on Mount Parnassos in Central Greece, this is the largest and most modern ski center in the country. It has 23 slopes for all skill levels, as well as 13 lifts, a snowboard park, a ski school, and two chalets. It is also near the archaeological site of Delphi and the picturesque village of Arachova.
- Kaimaktsalan Ski Center: Located on Mount Voras in Northern Greece, this ski center has 13 slopes, 6 lifts, a snowboard park, a ski school, and a chalet. It offers stunning views of Lake Vegoritida and Mount Olympus. It is also close to the thermal springs of Loutra Pozar and the traditional village of Agios Athanasios.
You can find more information about skiing and snowboarding in Greece here.
Hiking and trekking
If you prefer to explore nature on foot, Greece has plenty of hiking and trekking options for you. You can choose from scenic trails that pass through forests, gorges, rivers, waterfalls, caves, and monasteries. Some of the best places for hiking and trekking in Greece are:
- Zagori: This is a region in Epirus that consists of 46 stone-built villages (Zagorohoria) surrounded by mountains, valleys, and gorges. You can hike along hundreds of kilometers of well-marked paths that connect the villages and cross over old stone bridges. You can also visit the Vikos Gorge, one of the deepest gorges in the world, and the UNESCO World Heritage site of Meteora, where six monasteries stand on top of towering cliffs.
- Crete: This is the largest island in Greece and has a diverse landscape that ranges from sandy beaches to snow-capped mountains. You can hike along the famous Samaria Gorge, the longest gorge in Europe, or explore other gorges such as Imbros, Agia Irini, and Aradena. You can also trek on the White Mountains (Lefka Ori), where you can find more than 50 peaks over 2000 meters high.
- Pelion: This is a mountainous peninsula in Thessaly that is known for its natural beauty and rich mythology. You can hike along ancient paths that link charming villages with stone houses and cobbled streets. You can also enjoy panoramic views of the Aegean Sea and the Pagasetic Gulf. You can also visit some of the beaches that are accessible by foot or boat.
You can find more information about hiking and trekking in Greece here.
Canyoning and rafting
If you are looking for more thrilling activities, you can try canyoning and rafting in some of the rivers and gorges in Greece. You can experience sliding down waterfalls, jumping into pools, rappelling down cliffs, and paddling through rapids. Some of the best places for canyoning and rafting in Greece are:
- Evritania: This is a region in Central Greece that is known as the “Switzerland of Greece” because of its alpine scenery and abundant water resources. You can go canyoning in the Mavri Spilia (Black Cave) gorge, where you can descend into a dark and mysterious cave with stalactites and stalagmites. You can also go rafting in the Acheloos river, one of the longest rivers in Greece, where you can enjoy the lush vegetation and the wildlife along the way.
- Peloponnese: This is a large peninsula in Southern Greece that has a rich history and culture. You can go canyoning in the Lousios gorge, where you can follow the footsteps of the ancient monks who lived in the caves and monasteries. You can also go rafting in the Alfios river, the longest river in the Peloponnese, where you can admire the archaeological sites of Olympia and Temple of Apollo Epicurius.
- Thessaly: This is a region in Northern Greece that has a diverse terrain and climate. You can go canyoning in the Kalypso gorge, where you can explore a hidden paradise with waterfalls, pools, and rock formations. You can also go rafting in the Pinios river, the longest river in Thessaly, where you can pass through the Tempi valley and the Olympus mountain range.
You can find more information about canyoning and rafting in Greece here.
Truffle hunting and birdwatching
If you are interested in more relaxing and educational activities, you can try truffle hunting and birdwatching in some of the forests and lakes in Greece. You can learn about the secrets of finding and cooking truffles, or observe and identify different species of birds. Some of the best places for truffle hunting and birdwatching in Greece are:
- Metsovo: This is a town in Epirus that is famous for its cheese, wine, and truffles. You can join a truffle hunting tour with trained dogs and local guides, who will show you how to spot and collect truffles in the forest. You can also taste some of the truffle dishes and products that are made in the area.
- Lake Kerkini: This is a lake in Northern Greece that is one of the most important wetlands in Europe. You can join a birdwatching tour with expert guides and binoculars, who will help you spot and recognize some of the 300 species of birds that live or migrate to the lake. You can also enjoy a boat ride or a bike ride around the lake.
You can find more information about truffle hunting and birdwatching in Greece here.
Conclusion
Greece is not only a summer destination, but also a winter wonderland that offers a variety of sports and activities for all tastes and preferences. Whether you want to ski on the slopes, hike on the trails, raft on the rivers, or hunt for truffles, you will find something to suit your mood and budget. So don’t hesitate to visit Greece in winter and discover a different side of this amazing country.
