Exploring Greece

Nymfaio: The absolute winter destination.

 

 

A few words about the place.

Counting almost seven centuries of history, Nymfaio with its incompatible architectural integrity, has won a place among the 10 most beautiful villages in Europe. Since 1978, it’s characterized as a preserved traditional community and it’s protected from the Hellenic ministry of Culture. And this is exactly why the visitor will be stunned. As he wonders around it, he will feel like he has travelled in a diferrent era. Nikios School is one of the most impressive bulidings in the village, founded back in 1928 by Ioannis Zan Nikou. Currently it operates as a conventional center powered by Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, plus it hosts the Environmental Organisation “Arcturos”, which protects the brown bear and its habitats.

The village is full of beautifully preserved guest houses where someone can spend a few days away from the stress of a big city. He will also find traditional taverns, cafes and several stores where he can buy local products and gifts. Nymfaio, located 180 km west of Thessaloniki (2 hours), could be an ideal one day trip.

 

Skra waterfalls & The Emerald Lake

A few words about the place.

One hour and a half away northwest of Thessaloniki one can find the Skra waterfalls & the famous ‘’Emerald lake’’. Skra is a small village located at the county of Kilkis. It was named after the homonymous battle during the First World War. Τhe visitor will be amazed by the rare beauty of the waterfalls. Wonderful paths among rich vegetation lead to the waterfalls which root is a cave with stalactites. Walking a little further you will meet the stunning Emerald lake which takes its aquamarine color from organisms living in the bottom of it. During summer a lot of people enjoy a swim in the crystal clear water. All over the place someone can find wooden tables where they can have a wonderful picnic with friends and family.

 

Natural Springs of Aravissos

A few words about this destination

One of the most interesting destinations for people who love nature. Aravissos is a small village only 70 km away from Thessaloniki(12 kilometers northwest of Giannitsa). Aravissos springs have been classified as a wetland. It is definitely a rare scenery that’s worth seeing. There is a coffee place and a traditional tavern based in front of the springs so you can have a meal or a drink while enjoying this view. If you are an alternative traveler and you prefer having a picnic instead Aravissos Springs will please you since there is plenty of place for you to prepare and enjoy your meal.

How to combine this destination with another place

Driving to Aravissos from Thessaloniki will take you about 40-45 minutes. On your way there it would be a great idea to visit the Archeological Museum of Pella. You learn about Ancient Greek Kingdom of Macedonia at Alexander’s the Great motherland, Pella. The museum is open from Wednesday to Monday, from 08:30 to 15:30 (ticket= 4 euro). Do not miss this opportunity.

 

 

 

Tour of Meteora-Kalampaka

Meteora rocks, Greece
Meteora monasteries. Beautiful view on the Holy Monastery of Great Meteofo placed on the edge of high rock at sunrise, Kastraki, Greece
Meteora monasteries. Beautiful morning view on the Holy Monastery of Varlaam placed on the edge of high rock, Roussanou Monastery on background. Kastraki, Greece
Meteora monasteries valley in sunset in Greece.

“One of the most unforgetable places we have ever visited was Meteora-Kalampaka. This destination is about 2,5- 3  hours driving and 250 km away from Thessaloniki, our base. Many people are traveling from other countries just enjoy this breathtaking view and capture the moment by taking pictures.  The word “Meteora” in Greek means “in the middle of the sky” and this is excactly where this place is. If you go there dont forget to visit at least one of the monasteries that are literally built on the immense monolithic pillars. We drove a Citroen C3 1.4 from Automotorental’s fleet to get there, which uses diesel and made this trip very economically (diesel is about 0,30 euro/ liter cheaper than unleaded in Greece). We made a small tour there and we whould really like to share it with you.”

 

Rent a car from Thessaloniki to Meteora from 45,00 for one day trip (back and forth)with a limit of 600 km.

Let us transfer you to Meteora for 250,00 euro for a group of 8 passengers with the new Mercedes Vito.