Picturesque Villages in the South Pindus Region

Welcome to Mt. Koziakas, where the picturesque villages of Elati and Pertouli promise you an unforgettable adventure. Known for their stunning landscapes and vibrant character, these charming places are among Greece's top winter destinations, offering a delightful blend of relaxation and adventure.

Elati: A Gem of a Mountain Village

Nestled on a 900-metre elevation, Elati is the largest and most popular mountainous village in the area, located just 34 km from Trikala Town. Whether you’re a winter sports enthusiast or someone seeking tranquillity in the heart of nature, Elati is the place to be! Picture yourself enjoying the crisp mountain air, surrounded by breathtaking scenery and the mouthwatering aroma of traditional cooking wafting from local tavernas. With its charming atmosphere and delightful snowfall in winter, Elati is a hospitable destination all year round that could rival even the famous winter resorts on the Alps!

Pertouli: Nestled in pristine natural surroundings

Pertouli sits at a 1,150-metre elevation on a scenic slope of Mt. Koziakas, about 47 km from Trikala Town. This picture-perfect village, with red-roofed stone-built houses, is surrounded by lush forests, rivers and torrents. At a 5 km distance from the village, there’s a stunning landscape of green fields (known as Pertouliotika Livadia in Greek) where you can watch horses, cows and deer roaming and grazing in their natural habitat. Pertouliotikos riverside area is ideal for picnicking and enjoying your favourite activities in the area. Make sure you visit Grias Bridge which spans Mana Gorge, you’ll be impressed by the carvings on it. If you like hiking, head to Chatzipetros Shelter (1,738 m. altitude). Pertouli is a charming destination to explore any time of the year; however tourists visit it mostly in the winter, particularly winter sports fans, as there is a small skiing resort there.

Nearby Villages: Beauty and Tradition

In the vicinity of Elati and Pertouli, you can visit a number of historic villages, explore the sights and try the local culinary creations. Make sure you visit picturesque Dessi and Pyrra villages, as well as the scenic Aspropotamos Area, where the Acheloos River rises. It’s a large forest consisting mainly of fir, black pine, and beech trees, which form one of the largest and most beautiful wooded areas in Greece, with a number of beautiful under-the-radar villages dotting it. History buffs will love Doliana Village, where the 18th-c. Monastery of the Holy Cross (Moni Timiou Stavrou) is located, known for its impressive 13 domes. Make sure you visit Pyli Trikalon, which has served as a gateway to Trikala’s mountainous region, for many centuries. Once known as Megali Pyli (meaning Great Gate), this former Byzantine town features the magnificent Porta Panagias Monastery. Today, Pyli is the trade and transport hub of the area, its highlight being the iconic arch stone bridge, built in 1514. Finally, visit the impressive Porta Panagia Church in Pyli, which is famous for its exquisite mosaics.

Adventures in the Wild

Whether you’re an avid hiker or simply love to explore, the South Pindus area is a paradise for nature lovers. The E4 European long distance path goes through some amazing sites and offers you the opportunity to discover the area’s hidden stone bridges. For the thrill-seekers, the Acheloos River is perfect for rafting, canoeing, and kayaking. Try also horse riding and off-roading. If you’re into mountain biking head to Tria Potamia and enjoy the ride.

Savour the Special Flavours

Try local dishes and enjoy their full flavours. Taste trachana (made with cracked wheat and fermented milk), handmade pasta, savoury pies, lamb cooked in a casserole dish, game meat, kontosouvli & kokoretsi (both are meat dishes which can be baked or roasted on the spit). Make sure you buy a bag of flavourful oregano and other local dried herbs to carry back home with you.

Explore the southern part of the Pindus Range in Thessaly Region. Have an adventure in the wild and enjoy the warmth of Greek hospitality, which will enhance your overall experience. It’ll be an unforgettable mountain trip!