1600 m agios ioannis portaria VOLOS. Damouchari Tsangarada. Vizitsa. f oi. Kala Nera Afissos Lefokastro argalasti. l t oni. kalamos pagassitikos Gulf

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1 7173 Greece 2016 Pelion /11/ :05 Page 101 Greece Mainland the pelion the pelion little wonder that the ancient gods chose the pelion home of the Centaurs (kentavros) as the place for their weddings and celebrations; for here is a near-perfect synthesis of mountain, forest and sea. the coastline hides some excellent beaches, often of a coarse sand/fine shingle which makes for excellent swimming in clear water. foreign tourism is still fairly undeveloped, and the small seaside villages quiet for most of the year, busy over weekends and local holiday periods remain reassuringly Greek! Mt pelion horefto 1600 m agios ioannis portaria VOLOS Damouchari Tsangarada, os th ia os sk o ss l t oni l f oi hydro s & a lo skope Vizitsa Kala Nera Afissos Lefokastro argalasti Because pelion is still pretty virgin territory it does not have the Horto touristic infrastructure of more katigiorgis Milina Lafkos established areas. Money exchange platanias and atms can be hard to find away from Volos (so take a good supply of euros with you); the bus service limited and english not universally spoken. excursions are also limited and run only fresh and green year-round, the subject to numbers from kala nera and peninsula is dominated by mountains afissos. reaching a height of some 1600 metres With all this in mind we would strongly and covered with pine, oak, fir, plane and recommended you pre-book a car, chestnut. Views are dramatic, particularly especially for those choosing to stay in on the northeast where mountains plunge dizzily to the sea. the western side the smaller, more remote villages (i.e. those other than kala nera and afissos). if is gentler its hills covered with olive you don t mind some very winding roads, trees and shrubs yet still remarkably it would be a pity not to discover the attractive. whole of pelion. even Meteora and delphi pelion s preserved mountain villages are a are within reach. joy. Clinging to wooded slopes high above a visit to pelion will refresh the palate of the sea, they share a unique architectural even the most frequent Greek traveller. it tradition and are amongst the most did ours, and that takes some doing! beautiful in Greece. the old stone-built mansions, with their grey slate roofs and overhanging balconies, blend with their surroundings. often the only sounds are a babbling brook or birdsong. everywhere are trees, shrubs, plants and flowers. kalamos pagassitikos Gulf PELION INFORMATION Getting to Pelion Friday Day flight Gatwick to Volos (note: outbound flight via Skiathos). Then 1½ 2½ hrs by coach or taxi see resort pages. For flight details see page 253. Multi-Centre Options All areas can combine. For multi-centre details see page 8. Car Hire See pages for details. Representative Based in Kala Nera will visit all areas. Walking in the Pelion Thickly forested and criss-crossed by stone-paved mule tracks, Pelion is a walker s paradise. For western Pelion, two previous guests have written a Walking Guide for the benefit of fellow Sunvil guests. It details 7 walks, ranging from 50 mins to 2 hours (one way). If you would like a copy please contact us quoting your Sunvil booking reference number. Kastri Beach, Southeast Pelion Greece & Cyprus 101

2 7173 Greece 2016 Pelion /11/ :05 Page 102 Greece Mainland the pelion our chosen areas Western pelion afissos, lefokastro, kala nera, horto & Milina Transfer time 1½-2½ hours the western side of the pelion has lovely views (and gorgeous sunsets) over the pagasitic Gulf to the mountains of the mainland. although heavily wooded, like all pelion, the west is more typically Mediterranean: here olive and cypress predominate over oak and chestnut. although the name Kala Nera ('Good Waters') originally referred to the many springs in the area, it could equally apply to the sea here. directly on the gulf some 18 kms to the south of Volos, the village has lush wooded surrounds and backs a gently shelving sand/shingle beach which has a Blue flag. kala nera's long tree-lined promenade shades an array of restaurants and cafes, perfect spots from which to admire the sunsets here for which the area is famed. it is also not far from the start of the very scenic heritage railway which runs at weekends from ano lehonia up the mountain to the gorgeously traditional village of Milies. as everywhere in pelion there are good walking opportunities - perhaps along the coast to the beach at Boufa. kala nera is a relaxed seaside village with a very Greek atmosphere, a good choice of authentic restaurants and small shops, with some life to it (in a 'bustling taverna' kind of way), especially in season. Afissos is a small, quite smart little resort village and popular with local Greeks from Volos at weekends as it boasts three good beaches. it is said that Jason called in here for freshwater supplies before setting sail on his epic journey. the village has a small fishing harbour at its entrance. its long seafront is where most of the dozen restaurants are to be found, along with a few cafés, mini-markets and bakery. at its heart is a shady central square with attendant church. Gently shelving beaches lie to either side, a mix of shingle and coarse sand, which get very busy at weekends and in Greek holiday periods - there are several beach clubs, each of which offers free sun beds to its patrons. Milina 102 sunvil Both afissos and kala nera have a reasonable bus service to Volos. last year excursions ran around the pelion by coach, and there was also a popular 'around the gulf' boat trip. an hour s beautiful walk (or a ten minute drive) south along the narrow country lanes through the olive groves brings you to Lefokastro. this seaside hamlet is pretty as a postcard a delightfully tranquil wooded bay, with a ribbon of houses fronting the water and a safe fine-shingle beach. last summer a pair of local tavernas operated, joined by a third in high season. lefokastro offers an authentically Greek away from it all holiday in unspoilt green surroundings, with good swimming and fewer visitors. the countryside is hilly and full of olive trees, so offers fine walking (gentler than in the east). Horto is also very small and quiet for much of the year. the hamlet has just three tavernas, two little beaches and a quirky local shop but does possess an authentically sleepy Greek charm Milina further to the south is larger (not difficult!), albeit still pretty and quiet. the village enjoys fine views over a crystalline sea to the small islets of alatas and prasouda, each of which is home to an old (now deserted) monastery. Milina's long promenade above the sea is lined with a good choice of tavernas and cafes, and the village has a number of small shops. narrow shingle beaches lie to either side. there is a bus service to Volos (up to 5 times daily in season), and a car will enable a visit to trikeri island (known for its fish tavernas) just off pelion's southern tip, as well as a thorough exploration of the beautiful south, which hides some truly spectacular beaches on its eastern side. the pretty hill village of Lafkos, about midway between east and west coast, has a lovely traditional main square and you will find five village tavernas, as well as a traditional cheese maker, a sculpture gallery and (weirdly) a radio museum! it is a wonderful base for walking - many local stone paths start from here - and we would urge walkers to visit the excellent website by friends of the kalderimi. the nearest beaches are a 10 minute drive away to the west near Milina - however a very wide choice of some truly fabulous sandy beaches can be found within a minute drive. Afissos north-east pelion damouchari & tsangarada Transfer time 2-2½ hours eastern pelion is unspoiled, little-known and supremely beautiful. so thickly forested is it, and so steep, that, were it not for the glistening aegean below, it could be a cross between an ancient British woodland and the alps! the beaches are stunning and the swimming lovely in a clean open sea, but this can be lively, so the more sheltered western pelion may be better for children or non-swimmers. you would be hard pressed to find a prettier spot anywhere than traffic-free Damouchari, just a couple of kms to the south of the small resort of agios ioannis. this tiny hamlet really is a gem, comprising a beautiful natural bay, a ruined Venetian castle, a wide white-pebble beach, four tavernas and a couple of minimarkets. Quiet and secluded (although there will be plenty of day-visitors in august), this is one of the most delightful spots on the entire peninsula. Car hire is recommended as there is no bus service here. high above, the large village of Tsangarada spreads itself along the mountainside. the village is well-known to the Greeks - it accommodates skiers in winter - and has a good choice of traditional restaurants and small shops, many selling local herbs and honey. Walking trails, often using the 'calderimia' (donkey paths), lead to other equally lovely villages, of which there are many on pelion. directly below, reached by a twisting road, is the beach of Milopotamos. famed for its impressive main square, home to the inevitable old church and an enormous plane tree (reputedly 1,000 years old!), tsangarada's mix of mountain, forest, beautiful old buildings and vistas to the deep blue sea far below epitomises what a visit to north-eastern pelion is all about. Milopotamos

3 Greece Mainland the pelion alkifron hotel kala nera this sweet little pelion B&B offers a quiet location surrounded by olive groves a five minute walk (slight incline) to the seafront of kala nera and a couple more to the beach. designed in the attractive pelion style with much use of local stone and wood, the alkifron opened in 2008 and has just 10 rooms. they are cool and spacious, with high ceilings and very nicely furnished in a style which combines tradition with modern comfort. some have a fireplace (just for decoration in the summer!). sunvil's rooms are double-bedded with air conditioning, tv, fridge, room safe, sofa-bed for a child, shower room with hairdryer, and mosquito-netted windows. those on the top floor have a large covered front balcony with views to the sea, those on the ground floor have their own sitting-out area in the courtyard. there is also communal seating in the garden and Wifi is usually available here or on your balcony. as with many small Greek B&Bs, don't expect too much in the way of service here! however the alkifron does make for a most comfortable base, offers lovely rooms and various thoughtful small touches, such as homemade preserves at breakfast. it is also away from the central bustle but conveniently located for both village and beach. evening meals are now offered and are home made by mother! Supplement for Half Board: 70 per week for stays before 15/7 and 26/8 onwards reduction applies if booked by 31/5. please enquire or check online availabilty for a costing. the hotel: 2 star Bed & Breakfast Kala Nera Melograno apartments kala nera the Melograno apartments are very quietly situated in semi-rural surroundings, but a short 4 minute walk via a country lane (300m - no hills) brings you to kala nera seafront and beach. they are newly built, spacious and offer good modern standards of comfort. the studios are on the ground floor and comprise a twin-bedded sleeping area, a good kitchenette with full cooker and fridge, a nice tiled shower room, and a generous furnished patio overlooking the garden. apartments are on the first floor and have a double bedroom, a separate nicely furnished living room with kitchen area and double sofa-bed for an adult or 2 children, and large covered front terrace balcony with fine views over the countryside to the green hills behind. in-room facilities include ac (all rooms), tv (local channels), room safe, hairdryer and Wifi, and windows and patio doors are mozzie-netted. all the studios and apartments are very nicely furnished and decor is light, fresh and modern. high standards in a lovely location with easy access to village and beach. Up to 100 off per room per week (max discount 200) for bookings made by 28/2. Conditions apply - see page 249. the apartments: studios for 2 apartments for Lagoudi beach, Afissos Top floor apartment Studio Greece & Cyprus 103

4 Greece Mainland the pelion agnanti apartments afissos We consider the agnanti to be amongst the pick of afissos' accommodation. here you will find a good levels of comfort, plenty of space and lovely views together with the services of a small hotel, including reception and breakfast (if required) served to your room. they are just a couple of minutes walk up from the waterfront, although the elevated location via a steep village street or steps up the hill means that they are not suitable for anyone with fitness or walking difficulties. all units are well equipped and nicely furnished, and possess air conditioning, a kitchenette with mini-oven and fridge, a shower/wc, hairdryer, sat tv (BBC World), room safe ( 2 per day), sofa-bed and a balcony or terrace. the first floor studio has twin beds and a full sea view balcony; the cool garden studio below has a king-size double bed and side sea views from its lovely large patio terrace, which is furnished with table, chairs and umbrella and shaded by fruit trees. the apartments are first floor and have the addition of a spacious living room, also air conditioned, containing a full-size double sofabed. they enjoy magnificent views (and sunsets) over the rooftops and across the gulf. agnanti is almost exactly at the midway point of the village, so you will find a good choice of tavernas, cafes and small shops close to hand. popular abovos beach is no more than a 5 minute walk, and you will find two other very nice beaches - lagoudi and kalifteri - within a 10 minute walk in the other direction. please note that all afissos beaches get very busy at weekends and during Greek holiday periods. the apartments: studios for 2/3 apartments for Lefokastro Beach lefokastro Beach Cottage lefokastro this beautifully modernised fisherman's cottage is just 10 metres from the sea at the start of lefokastro's beach. the house is open-plan and air conditioned (included). the living room contains sofas and tv, with tiled shower room off and an archway leading to the fully fitted modern kitchen with electric oven, hob and full fridge. other facilities include an iron and board, hairdryer and Wifi. steps lead up from the living room to the sleeping gallery above with a double platform bed. the house is very nicely restored and furnished, the thick stone walls and wooden ceiling keeping it cool and combining well with the modern comfortable furnishings, high quality fittings and tasteful decor. there is no front terrace or balcony due to the age and location of the house but a large picture window in the living room does look to the sea. Between the two is the narrow beach road, a cul-de-sac. the rear garden patio has a BBQ, space for sunbathing and a seating area shaded by a pergola. there is natural shade on the beach to the front provided by tamarisk trees, and here sun beds are provided for guests. Up to 100 off per apartment per week (max discount 200) for bookings made by 28/2. Conditions apply - see page 249. the Cottage: house for 2 Car included from airport 104 sunvil

5 Greece Mainland The Pelion Diplomats Hotel Apartments Horto Built in the attractive Pelion style above the sea, with lush gardens leading down to the hotel's own beach below, Diplomats has all the ingredients for a truly restful holiday in beautiful surroundings. The 27 rooms are housed in various 2-3 storey buildings in the grounds, designed in traditional style. The studios are mainly twin bedded, most with a sofa bed also, and possess AC, basic kitchen for light meals (2 rings, fridge), TV, room safe, hairdryer, shower room and balcony or terrace with garden, sea or partial sea views due to the olive trees. The apartments are similar with the addition of a living room (also with AC) containing two sofa beds for children. At a lower level is the 12m x 6m freshwater pool, its terrace shaded by olive trees, and a bar/restaurant above the beach open from breakfast until late. The pretty beach below is of fine shingle shelving into the clearest of seas. The hotel also has a tennis court. The seaside hamlet of Horto is a kilometre down the road (10 mins. walk) where you will find a handful of local tavernas and a mini-market. Due to the location there are a number of steps within the hotel grounds so a stay here would not be suited to anyone with mobility problems, and parents with young children in pushchairs should also take note. Air Conditioning: operates from c 24/6-15/9 The Hotel: 3 Stars Self Catering Studios for 2/3 Apartments for Air Conditioning (seasonal) Swimming Pool Free Wifi (public areas) Horto Bay Studios Horto Located at the southern edge of tiny Horto, these studios are just a few minutes' walk from the village's beach, tavernas and mini-market. There are just 6 studios here. The rooms possess twin or double bed, basic 2-ring kitchenette with fridge, bathroom with bath and shower attachment, and balcony or terrace overlooking the gardens and pool. Decor and design are in the traditional Pelion style and facilities include, hairdryer, TV and room-safe. Horto is a pretty little place with a lot of sleepy Greek charm. Recommended for lovers of the real Greece. A car would be useful, although buses do run to Milina and the south from here. The Studios: Self Catering Studios for 2/3 Air Conditioning Swimming Pool Free Wifi Horto restaurant Horto Greece & Cyprus 105

6 Greece Mainland the pelion dimitra's apartment Melina this independent 2-bedroom apartment (more like a small cottage) is above the sea just to the south of Milina, and has a small shingle beach handily located just over the road. dimitra's elevated location ensures fine views but steps up from the road means it is unsuited to anyone with mobility difficulties. the interior comprises two double bedrooms (one with an extra single bed), separate kitchen with 2-ring mini-oven and fridge (note: cold water tap only), nice bathroom with walk-in shower, and large covered veranda for al fresco dining with lovely views to the sea and alatas island just off-shore. there is also an open sun terrace to the side with stone table and seating under the shade of an olive, and a BBQ. facilities include ac (both bedrooms), tv with dvd player, hairdryer and Wifi. dimitra's is of a very high standard, with light modern colours and well furnished with care and taste - quite artistic in many ways. should our apartment be full we have access to a similar one next door the pool is a little away from the house and measures 11m x 5.5m (depth m). it is shared between the two neighbouring cottages and remvi studios (see website). the small shingle beach below has very sheltered clean waters. you will find a handy taverna restaurant and a mini-market for basics just around the corner just one minute's walk away. pretty Milina is 2 kms up the road (a 20 minute walk) so car hire is recommended. Up to 100 off per week (max discount 200) for bookings made by 28/2. Conditions apply - see page 249. the hotel: Below Dimitra s apartment for swimming pool lagou raxi Country hotel lafkos Lafkos lagou raxi (pronounced rahi ) is a stylish new country hotel situated on the edge of the picturesque and unspoilt village of lafkos high amongst the green rolling hills of south pelion. it is a wonderful location for walkers (see resort into pages) and for those who love a view, as the hotel has gloriously sweeping views over the pagasitic Gulf. the hotel has 20 rooms, family rooms and suites. Completed to a high modern standard, each room has its own character and decor. all possess double or twin beds (fourposters in some Junior suites), bath or shower, ceiling fan, tv (BBC World), hairdryer, room safe and teamaking facilities. all ours have a sea view balcony or terrace and suites have a fridge. Many rooms can interconnect via a removable balcony divider, and some are adapted for the disabled. Below is the good-sized swimming pool (towels provided). the hotel has a restaurant (home grown organic local produce), a library, a cozy lounge bar, beautiful Mediterranean gardens and terraces. a 5-10 minute walk brings you to the heart of lafkos where you will find five tavernas (see resort intro pages). With a car you are well placed for exploration of beautiful south pelion - and the fact that the hotel's rooms are individually named after different local beaches tells you that you'll need a 3 week stay to get around every one! Half Board: 84 per week which can be split over a 2 week stay i.e. 7 dinners to be taken on the nights of your choosing. reduction up to 80 per room per week if booked by 30/4. the hotel: 3 stars plus Bed & Breakfast or half Board swimming pool air Cooling system Car included from airport 106 sunvil

7 Greece Mainland The Pelion Kastania Cottage Tsangarada This charming small house in the large mountain village of Tsangarada, high on Pelion's thickly forested north-eastern flank, offers comfort, charm, oodles of peace and quiet and fantastic views! The cottage comprises a spacious air conditioned living room, with a stone floor and traditional open fireplace, a full sized sofa-bed, flatscreen TV (BBC World), DVD and CD player. To one side is an open-plan fitted kitchen with a full cooker and hob, fridge and dishwasher. The separate double bedroom is also air conditioned and there is a tiled shower room with hair dryer and washing machine. To the front is a lovely wide covered terrace running the length of the house, with table and chairs, sun loungers and jacuzzi to one side. The views from here are magnificent, over the steep forested mountainside to open sea. A garden BBQ completes the picture. It is a 10 minute drive to tavernas and the nearest shop. Tsangarada is famed for its main square and giant plane tree, and has a fair selection of tavernas and a number of small shops. Fresh and cool, it is a popular summer haunt for locals wishing to escape the heat on the coast. Here, with a car, you are well placed to explore north-eastern Pelion, in our book one of the most beautiful regions of all Greece. There are some fabulous beaches to discover - Milopotamos is the nearest, just a 5 minute drive down a twisting road, but also Fakistra (voted one of Europe's top ten beaches by the Guardian - you have to walk the final bit and it is not easy!) and, for brighter lights, Aghios Ioannis. And there are some stunning traditional mountain villages in the area too, some of which you can walk to via the old 'calderimia' donkey paths. Children: please note that children under 12 are not permitted. The Cottage: Self Catering Cottage for 2/3 Air Conditioning Outdoor Jacuzzi Free WiFi Car included from Airport (2 hrs.) For more choice see our website Pegasus Hotel (Kala Nera) Attractive and well run small hotel right in the centre of the sea front and opposite the beach, ideal for those who want everything close to hand. Seralis Hotel (Koropi) In country surroundings between Kala Nera and Afissos this small family run hotel offers a friendly comfortable stay, a nice pool and home cooking. Remvi Studios (Milina) These simple studios are next to our Dimitra Apartments and share the swimming pool here. They have lovely sea views and a little beach opposite. Milopotamos Damouchari Hotel The car free hamlet of Damouchari on the steep north east coast is a well known beauty spot and the perfect setting for this rather bohemian hotel. THE PELION Prices shown are in s per person departing on or between dates shown ACCOMMODATION May 06, 13 May 20 May 27 Jun 03 Jun 10 Jun 17 Jun 24 Jul 01 Jul 08 Jul 15 Jul 22 Jul 29 Aug 26 Sep 02 Sep 09 Sep 16 Sep 23 Sep 30 Aug 5,12,19 1 Wk 2 Wks 1 Wk 2 Wks 1 Wk 2 Wks 1 Wk 2 Wks 1 Wk 2 Wks 1 Wk 2 Wks 1 Wk 2 Wks 1 Wk 2 Wks 1 Wk 2 Wks 1 Wk 2 Wks 1 Wk 2 Wks 1 Wk 2 Wks 1 Wk 2 Wks 1 Wk 2 Wks 1 Wk 2 Wks 1 Wk 2 Wks 1 Wk 2 Wks 1 Wk 2 Wks PERSONS BASIS Agnanti Apartments Studio 2 SC REQ REQ SC REQ REQ Bedroom Apartment 2 SC REQ REQ SC REQ REQ SC REQ REQ Alkifron Std Room Ground Floor 2 BB REQ REQ Sea View Room (1st Floor) 2 BB REQ REQ Dimitra 2 Bedroom Apartment 2 SC REQ REQ SC REQ REQ SC REQ REQ SC REQ REQ Diplomats Apartments Studio 2 SC REQ REQ SC REQ REQ Bedroom Apartment 2 SC REQ REQ SC REQ REQ Horto Bay Apartments Studio 2 SC REQ REQ SC REQ REQ Kastania Cottage1 Bedroom Cottage 2 SC REQ REQ (Includes Car Hire) 3 SC REQ REQ Lagou Raxi Hotel Sea View Room 2 BB REQ REQ (Includes Car Hire) Junior Suite 2 BB REQ REQ BB REQ REQ BB REQ REQ Lefokastro Beach 1 Bedroom 2 SC REQ REQ (Includes Car Hire) Melograno Studio 2 SC REQ REQ Bedroom Apartment 2 SC REQ REQ SC REQ REQ SC REQ REQ Payment by Credit or Charge Card will incur a 2% processing charge (note: should this change due to the credit card companies increasing their charges to us, you will be advised at the time of booking). Departure date determines basic holiday cost. Prices include all airport/fuel charges & taxes known at the time of printing for surcharge policy see booking conditions. Prices based on Gatwick departures. To add: any regional flight supplements, room & board supplements (see text single room prices on request), Travel Insurance. Please reconfirm prices with us at the time of booking in case of errors or changes Greece & Cyprus 107