...Thessaly, One region, many destinations...
Thessaly is rightfully deserving the title of the “heart” of Greece since it is located at the center of its mainland, at a small distance from Athens in the south and Thessaloniki in the north. Good road and rail networks provide easy access, along with two peripheral airports, one in Nea Aghialos and a second on the island of Skiathos.
Thessaly is a miniature replica of Greece, complete with beautiful islands, mountains, impressive religious and cultural monuments, modern urban centers at a short distance from quaint mountain villages, with lots of color and excellent cuisine. Owed to its central geographical position, the region’s modern infrastructure combines with a simple, serene and “loose” lifestyle typical of regions deep in the mainland. A sole visit would not be enough to discover Its rich history, culture, sights and tastes.
Thessaly has a rich heritage in myths, legends and tales: Mount Olympus, the home of the Gods, Mount Pelion, the home of the Centaurs and Nymphs, Meteora, with its breathtaking pinnacles attesting to the battles between the Giants, Zeus and the other gods, personages like Achilles, the mythical hero of the Trojan Wars, Jason and its Argonauts that sailed from the coasts of Thessaly in quest of the Golden Fleece; myths that have left their mark in Thessaly, still filling the air with glory.
The coastline of Larissa and Magnesia, as well as the islands of Skiathos, Skopelos and Alonnissos boast some of the most beautiful beaches in the Aegean; pine trees reaching all the way to the sea, large sandy beaches with clear water creating images of unique harmony. A wide variety of well organized activities are available to visitors who wish to combine sea and recreation, sports and adventure: sailing, windsurfing, sea kayak, jet skiing, paragliding, underwater fishing, diving and traveling aboard inflatable boats to explore sea-caves such as the Cyclop’s Cave, Afissos, Veneto and the Sporades Islands.
Traveling deeper inland, visitors will have many more opportunities for fascinating extreme sports and escapades in nature. Lake Plastira is an oasis of relaxation; during the winter months, the snow-capped mountain peaks are ideal for snow-frolicking, mountain climbing and skiing at organized ski resorts on Mount Pelion and Pertouli, but also for cozy times at the hospitable guesthouses in the nearby villages. Mountain biking, horse-back riding, high flying adventures and sports, climbing, canyoning and rafting are some of the options for action and adventure available throughout the year in some of the most fascinating landscapes of Greece.