Go Slow on Greece's Pelion Peninsula

According to Greek legend, Mount Pelion was the summer residence of the Gods of Olympus, and the homeland of the magical Centaurs. Situated mid way between Athens and Thessaloniki, the Pelion Peninsula extends south from this mountain, surrounded by stunning beaches and beautiful turquoise waters, and is covered in beech and oak forests and shady olive groves.

This ‘Go Slow’ holiday, begins with a flight to either Athens or Thessaloniki, from where we will head north to Pelion and our base for seven nights, the small and comfortable Lagou Raxi Country Hotel. Situated on the edge of the unspoiled village of Lafkos, where white-washed houses surround village squares shaded by plane trees, our hotel features beautiful gardens and stunning views over the islands of the Pagasetic Gulf. From here we will explore the peninsula at a leisurely pace, making use of the many kalderimia, or cobbled mule paths, to aid our exploration. We will enjoy leisurely walks of up to two miles in length, as we explore the flower-filled hillsides and olive groves or follow one of the kalderimia down to the coast, where Mediterranean species abound. We will enjoy identifying asphodels, spurges, abundant herbs and the parasitic Cytinus hypocistus amongst the Cistus scrub, while Italian Gladiolus and Barbary Nut are found amongst the grassy verges and Yellow-horned Poppy grows along the shore. We will also visit some beautiful local gardens, where the owners have encouraged wildflowers to return following years of pesticide use. The result is wonderful, with hillsides covered in Bee Orchids, Serapias and Orchis italica.

On one day, we will drive north to the Pelion Orchid Centre. Fifty-two species of orchid have now been identified in north Pelion, and above the village we may find Anacamptis morio and Orchis anthropophora (Man Orchid), whilst in the woodlands, dominated by Downy Oak, we should find Orchis provincialis. Our diverse programme for the week will also include some delightful taverna lunches and an optional excursion to a local vineyard where we can sample a few of the delicious local wines.

Focus

The beautiful wild flowers and scenery of Pelion, plus wider natural history and a little of local life.