Seasons Experience Thessaly in all its facets, combining traditions, natural beauty, and experiences tailored to each season of the year.
TEMPI Until the modern tunnels of the Athens – Thessaloniki National Highway were put into operation, the Tempi valley united or separated, depending on one's point of view, Southern and Northern Greece. It also caused mixed feelings. On the one hand, admiration for the magnificent landscape, on the other hand, frustration for the frequent delays due to increased traffic. With the new tunnels, things have been simplified. Whoever passes through the Tempi Valley does so by choice, to enjoy this magical landscape formed by the Pineios passing between Olympus and Kissavos. The traffic has decreased. Most shops, cafes and restaurants around the old toll booths have been deserted. Most of the street vendors around the church of Agia Paraskevi have sought out other haunts. Perhaps it is for the best. The crowds that once gathered and the noise that accompanied them probably acted as a deterrent to someone who wanted to enjoy the enchanting landscape. Image The busiest part of the valley, where many stop to get to know it "up close", but also for a coffee or quick "snack" is the point of the hanging footbridge, which, unfortunately, was destroyed by the relentless passage of Daniel. The church of Agia Paraskevi carved into the rock by the railway workers last century and the holy water deep in an adjacent cave, remain in place, as do various archaeological traces. On the side of Kissavos Without a doubt, the most "famous" village of today's Tempi municipality is Ampelakia, on the slopes of Kissavos, above the entrance of the valley. They still exude an air of glamor and nobility from the time (mid-18th century) when, with their Cooperative, the yarns and red dye from the Ritsari plant had conquered the markets of Europe. The castle of Oria, above the village, proves the strategic importance of Tempi! Returning from Ampelakia to the main road, a stop at the village of Tempi and the under-restoration teké of the Bektashi dervishes, Hassan Baba, is worthwhile. Image Next stop, Elateia. The village hides an unexpected secret, a model folklore museum, the Museum of Thessalian Life, in essence the mansion of the Syrmakezis family, which the current owners have transformed into an exemplary exhibition space of rural and urban life of the last 150 years, through the personal belongings of the family. Another well-kept folklore museum also operates in Sykourio, made piece by piece by the local historian Ioannis Prapas. You will find it in the Myli position, a location with many waters and mills, which even operated as a source of electricity for Sykourio, something innovative for the standards of the time. A short distance away is also the "Bara", a small artificial lake that is a favorite recreation place for the residents. Sykourio prides itself on the wonderful spectacle offered in the spring by the flowering almond trees, but also, of course, on the almonds themselves. It gathers the overwhelmingly largest part of the Greek, but also about 2% of the world production and celebrates it every September. Image From Sykourio, after a mountainous, asphalt route of about 12 km on the slopes of Kissavos, you will reach the village of Spilia, at an altitude of about 900 meters. If it is a weekend, do not be surprised by the number of cars, they belong to people from Larissa who come here to honor the village's famous taverns. From here it is very easy to access the Kissavos Mountaineering Refuge. On the side of Olympus The other side of the Tempi valley belongs to the territory of Olympus and specifically to its small "brother", Lower Olympus. A first necessary stop before crossing the valley heading north will be at Gonnous to visit another impressive Folklore Museum in a multi-level traditional mansion, but also the Municipal Art Gallery. From Gonnoi, after an uphill route of 23 km you will reach the beautiful mountain village Kallipeyki (old name "Nezeros") at 1054 meters altitude, where it is worth trying its famous potatoes. Having crossed the valley you will head towards Rapsani. Also known for their yarns, at the same time as Ampelakia, the Rapsaniotes looked for alternative outlets when the trade in red dye began to decline. And they found them in their vineyards. The Rapsaniotes have always loved wine, the tradition of viticulture has even been integrated into the local architecture, with almost every house having a basement with its own barrels. The whole local tradition unfolds in the Wine and Vine Museum. Image About four kilometers separate Rapsani from another "wine village", the picturesque Krania and about as many from Pyrgetos. Passing from the eastern side of the National Road a dirt road will bring you to the old Petrogefyro, which remains relatively unknown to many people. It was once famous for its many arches - of which only one survives - and with its 40 m. length it connected Pyrgetos with the opposite village of Omolio, on the other bank of the Pineios. The end of the route coincides with the end of the Pineios itself, which forms a large Delta between Stomio and Nea Messagala, an impressive as well as important wetland. Kouloura - which is surrounded by vast expanses of sunflowers - , Messagala and Kastri-Loutro are the favorite beaches of the people of Larissa north of the Delta. View More TEMPI - The Enchanted Valley
FARSALA – The Homeland of Achilles The "ancestor," ancient Pharsalos, is considered the continuation of Mycenaean, Homeric Phthia, the homeland of Achilles and the Myrmidons, the ants that, according to myth, were transformed by Zeus into legendary warriors. The statue of the hero in the Town Hall square, the statue of Thetis holding Achilles as a baby by the heel at the sources of Apidanos in the city center, and the sculpture of an ant holding a spear and shield at the entrance of the city, remind us of the relationship between Farsala and its emblematic mythical hero and his loyal warriors. Image Ancient Pharsalos Pharsala, located at the strategically important passage connecting the plain of Thessaly with southern Greece, has been the theater of important battles throughout history. On the hill of Prophet Elias, after crossing the beautiful aesthetic forest of Farsala, you will find yourself at the ruins of the ancient and Byzantine Acropolis with its imposing walls. From here, you can enjoy a panoramic view of the city and the "wavy" plain that surrounds it, up to Mount Olympus and Mount Kissavos. In various locations, mainly in Varousi, the "old" city, significant archaeological finds from various eras have been brought to light, but the most impressive ones, an archaic vaulted tomb and a Mycenaean chamber tomb (6th-5th century BC), are located in the Western Cemetery of Ancient Pharsalos. The most important find, an offering in the vaulted tomb, the calyx-shaped, black-figure crater of the famous painter of the archaic period, Exekias, demonstrates that since ancient times, the inhabitants of the area considered themselves descendants of Achilles. Image Before leaving the city, it is worth taking a walk in its beautiful squares and searching in the "Turkish" neighborhood for the Karamichos Tower, an exceptionally well-preserved example of an 18th-century "koulia" or "tower house." Of course, lest we forget, it is impossible to leave Farsala without a large piece of fresh, warm, buttery halva, especially if your "Achilles heel" is traditional sweets. Image Outside the city The important archaeological sites are not limited to the city limits but extend throughout almost the entire area of the Municipality of Farsala. A short distance away is the archaeological site of Skotoussa and the Sacred Cave of the Nymphs and Pan in the Karapla cave. At a somewhat greater distance, east of the city, almost on the "borders" of the prefectures of Larissa and Magnesia, in the location known as "Kastro Kallitheas", near the village of the same name, is the ancient city of "Perioikidos Achaea Phthiotidos," Peuma. Further north, near the village of Eretria, in the Tsangli Magoula location, are the ruins of a prehistoric (Neolithic) settlement and an ancient castle. Image The interest of the area is not limited to archaeological sites. Newer monuments and other attractions enrich its travel map. A short distance north of the city, right next to the road coming from Larissa, is a neglected architectural monument, the bridge of Enipeas, formerly known as the "Pasha's Bridge." Until the 1990s, it was part of the Larissa-Farsala provincial road. It is a huge stone bridge (110 meters long, 5.5 meters wide) built in 1752, has seven unequal arches and has been declared a listed monument. Very close by is the old Farsala Railway Station (operated until 1998), which the very active "Friends" of have turned into an informal museum. For those who nostalgically remember their school years, the School Museum of Vrysia will awaken pleasant memories. Image The two konaks - farmhouses that survive in the area will transport you to the times before Kileler and Marinos Antypas, to the years of the landowners and the serfs. One, the Konaki of Charokopos (owned by Kyzeridis) is located in Polyneri and is preserved in excellent condition. In contrast, dilapidated but still majestic is the Konaki of Vasiliou in Palaiomylos. Image Just 10 km from Palaiomylos, very close to Asprogeia, you will find one of the most unique and impressive sights not only of Farsala but of the whole of Thessaly, the Tekes ("monastery - hermitage") of the Bektashi Dervishes. The signs read "Monastery of Teke Farsalon", the old name was "Ireni Tekes" ("Ireni" was the old name of Asprogeia), the locals know it as "Albanian Monastery", while you will also find it recorded as "Teke Durbali Sultan". Whatever you call it, it is an evocative place that echoes the mysticism of the Sufis, this tolerant and non-denominational Muslim dogma that was found in the "shadow" of Shiites and Sunnis, the two dominant branches of Islam. View More FARSALA – The Homeland of Achilles
ARGITHEA "Wild" and "untamed" are two words that often cling to Agrafa, ever since the days when attempts to list it in Ottoman tax records proved futile, effectively wiping it 'off the map'. This region has always been a heartland of resistance, from the long years of Ottoman rule and the dark days of the German Occupation right up to the present, where locals fiercely oppose the installation of wind turbines. It remains one of Greece's most remote and rugged corners, especially during the harsh winter months. But this isolation isn't necessarily a drawback. Here, nature endures untouched, pristine, and utterly magnificent. The way of life for the few remaining inhabitants feels like stepping out of a time capsule. Visitors get a potent taste of "old Greece" – a spirit unyielding in the face of hardship, a constant dialogue with the elements of nature, an unwavering love for the land, and a pure, selfless hospitality offered without expectation. Image Argithea isn't for everyone, nor is it for those seeking creature comforts and luxury. It will capture the hearts of the initiated, the mindful travellers, the lovers of authentic experiences and genuine adventure – those who don't mind stepping outside their comfort zone. With its countless deep gorges and just as many towering peaks (seven soaring above 2,000 meters), blanketed in dense forests of fir, beech, chestnut, cedar, oak, and holm oak, nature enthusiasts and hikers will discover their ultimate playground. The ever-helpful members of the Hellenic Mountaineering Club (EOS) of Karditsa (tel: +30 6940794395 & +30 6974110853) can offer guidance or even welcome visitors on their excursions. Travellers will also find sparsely populated villages scattered across the landscape, historic monasteries, dozens of enchanting stone bridges, and Greece's youngest natural lake, Stefaniada, formed dramatically in 1963 when the 'Stoichio' mountainside broke away from Mount Sminiko, damming a tributary of the Acheloos River. Argithea is broadly divided into two (plus one) areas, Eastern and Western, accessible via two main routes, the southern and northern, respectively. Both journeys begin from Mouzaki – and heed this warning: fill your vehicle's fuel tank here, because you won't find another petrol station once you venture deep into the mountains. Depending on the season and weather conditions, these two routes can connect further west via a passable dirt road, just before reaching the Acheloos valley, which essentially forms a third 'sub-region'. In winter, however, making this connection becomes challenging, if not impossible. Image Eastern Argithea Following the southern route, the first village you'll encounter after crossing the Oxya pass is picturesque Vlasi, perched at 1060 meters on the slopes of Mount Karava. Opposite lies one of the region's largest and most renowned villages, Petrilo, also known as "Ta Petrilia" due to its scattered settlements. Until 1821, Petrilia boasted a population of 5,000 souls. In 1944, its Primary School served as the seat of the wartime 'Government of the Mountains'. At its heart lies the Monastery of the Nativity of the Theotokos – though locals persistently call it by its old name: Monastery of Agios Charalambos. In the Haris neighbourhood stands the stone-built Church of the Dormition of the Theotokos, one of 19 churches dotted among the hamlets. Traditionally, the faithful return in the summer, some from Schimatari, others from Larissa. The people of Vlasi migrated closer – they now ascend from Mouzaki. In Drosato, you'll find a beautiful stone bridge, while in Petrochori and the nearby pastoral settlements of Patlia and Evakli, it's worth seeking out authentic local Agrafa feta cheese and the unique tsalafouti, a soft, creamy cheese. In neighbouring Leontito, once a hideout for the armatolos Karaiskakis, the village square is dominated by a colossal plane tree, reputed to be 1,000 years old! A little further west lies an "eagle's nest of faith," the most significant pilgrimage site in the area, the Monastery of Spilia (Cave Monastery). The final stop on this route is Lake Stefaniada, where, with the help of Finix Adventures (tel. +30 6977663453) and the intrepid Vasiliki Koimtzidou, you can indulge in numerous outdoor activities – a possibility that extends throughout the wider region. Image Western Argithea The second, northern route requires crossing Tympanos, the passage over the infamous mountain saddle which is to Thessaly what the notorious "Katara Pass" is to Epirus. Crossing it during the winter months is extremely difficult without snow chains and strictly prohibited after dark. Over the years, many Argitheans have tragically lost their lives to avalanches while attempting the passage. To honour their memory, the Municipality of Argithea has erected the "Memorial to Argitheans Lost Unjustly in the Snows" at this poignant spot. The first village along this route is Argithea itself, which, despite its name, isn't the municipal 'capital', as its permanent residents can be counted on one hand. About 3 km further lies the junction of Agorasia, where two traditional cafes operate. Here you can grab a simple bite, stock up on cigarettes and snacks, and even purchase petrol by the canister in an emergency. This is also the turn-off for Karya, while its famous stone bridge (also known as "Trizolos", or "Trizol'" to locals), the largest in Thessaly, is located a short distance further on. Just before Agorasia, steps lead up to the necropolis of ancient Argithea, a remnant of the capital of the ancient Athamanes tribe. Shortly after Agorasia, a right turn leads to Anthiro, the most vibrant village in the area and the administrative seat of the Municipality of Argithea. Here you'll find an interesting Ecclesiastical museum, cafes, tavernas, a mini-market, a trout farm, watermills, and the beautiful springs of Gkoura. It has it all! Just 3 km north of Anthiro lies the impressive but deserted 17th-century Katosio Monastery. Image Returning to the 'main' road and heading downhill, just before crossing the Liaskovitiko stream, an exit on the right leads to Petroto (formerly known as "Liaskovo"), and continues, running almost parallel to the Acheloos riverbed, towards Kali Komi, with its church of Agios Nikolaos, and Ellinika. From Ellinika, via a dirt road and a rather challenging 2km footpath, you can reach the stunning Korakonissi bridge. After this detour, you'll cross the Liaskovitiko stream via the metal bridge, and on your right, you'll spot one of the most beautiful stone bridges in the region, that of Petroto. From here on, passing through tunnels carved directly into the bare rock, you'll finally descend into the Acheloos valley. Image The Acheloos Valley The controversial, unfinished dam at Sykia divides the Acheloos valley into two sections. To the north, it remains quite narrow, while slightly further south, it begins to widen. Immediately after exiting the last tunnel before the settlement of Sykia, look across the river to see the Koulia (an Ottoman watchtower) that once stood beside the legendary Korakos bridge. This was once the largest single-arched bridge in Greece, boasting an arch span of 45 meters and a height of 25 meters. It connected Thessaly with Epirus from 1514 until it was tragically blown up during the Greek Civil War with 61 kilograms of dynamite. Image In Neochoria Vrangianon, you can see the old 'perataria' (an aerial pulley system), a hand-operated 'cable car' that crosses high above the Acheloos, linking Karditsa with Arta, Epirus with Thessaly. It officially operated until 1997 with an appointed operator – the 'perataris' – employed by the Karditsa Prefecture. A little further up, in Vrangiana, the seat of the former Acheloos Municipality, electricity only arrived in 1981. The 150 families that once lived here have dwindled to around 200 people engaged in farming and livestock breeding, living alongside their local treasure, the Monastery of the Transfiguration of the Saviour. The most lively village in this part of the valley is Argyri, very close to the 'border' with Evrytania. It boasts a cafe and a school, and is inhabited by young people who, swimming 'against the current', choose to spend their winters in their homeland and their summers working in tourism on the islands. Seven kilometres south of Argyri, at the 'quadripoint' where Karditsa, Evrytania, Aetoloakarnania, and Arta meet, the magnificent, four-arched stone bridge of Katafylli – Avlaki, spanning the turquoise waters of the Acheloos, serves as a spectacular finish line for the challenging yet deeply captivating exploration of the Thessalian Agrafa. Image View More ARGITHEA - At the heart of Agrafa
WESTERN MAGNESIA The area between the "mountain of the Centaurs," Pelion, and the "mountain of the Titans," Othrys, almost coincides with the geographical boundaries of the Municipalities of Rigas Feraios and Almyros. It has everything: mountains, plains, lakes, picturesque coastal villages, myths and history, but for some unexplained reason, it has remained away from the "spotlight" until now. The tour can start from the northernmost edge, from the point where Pelion meets Mavrovouni and the P.E. of Magnesia meets the P.E. of Larissa. There, in the "northernmost Pelion," which administratively belongs to the Municipality of Rigas Feraios, you will find two wonderful villages, Keramidi and Veneto, but also a beautiful beach, Kamari. Inside the forests of Pelion, you will find two of the most important religious monuments of Thessaly, the Monasteries of Flamouriou and Sourvias. Image The Reborn Lake and the Homeland of Rigas Descending from the mountain, you will see the enchanting landscapes of the "suffering" but reborn Karla, a lake that in ancient times was known as Voivis, was drained in the 1960s and "re-established" in recent years. It sextupled its area with the passage of the Daniel storm, in September 2023, causing great destruction, but now it has returned to "normal." If you want to learn what life was like in Karla before it was drained, visit the Museum of Limnaio Culture of Karla (T/ +302421058659) in Kanalia. Southeast of the lake is Velestino ("Feres"), the homeland of the great Greek thinker, writer, politician, and revolutionary Rigas Feraios (or "Velestinlis"). The pioneer of the Modern Greek Enlightenment is honored in his birthplace with museums, busts, and local narratives that keep his memory alive. One of his 5 famous Charts is kept at the Town Hall. Traces of the ancient city of Feres, of various eras, are scattered in and around Velestino, demonstrating its timeless strategic importance. It has been proposed to restore some of the ancient monuments and organize an Archaeological-Historical Park of Feres-Velestino, which will unite all the ancient "dots"! Image On the borders of myth and history The city of Almyros, an important economic and administrative center, is located in the middle of a plain that in ancient times was known as Krokio Pedio. Here, in 353 BC, the homonymous battle took place, one of the most important of the 3rd Sacred War (for the control of the Oracle of Delphi) between Macedonians and Thessalians, on the one hand, and Phocians and Athenians, on the other. The battle ended with a crushing victory for Philip II of Macedon, who was proclaimed ruler (also) of Thessaly. To celebrate his victory, he gave his newborn daughter the name "Thessaloniki" ("Victory of Thessaly"). Beyond this important historical event, the area is also associated with an important myth, according to which, somewhere here the ship of Deucalion and Pyrrha ran aground during the Flood caused by Zeus. These two regenerated the human species bringing to life the first Greek! Near the city of Almyros (which is a historical continuation of the ancient city of Alos), you will find the Kouri Forest, which although it has shrunk compared to the past continues to be a favorite recreation area for locals and visitors. A short distance from the neighboring refugee settlement of Evxeinoupoli, you will find an impressive geological "paradox." The "twin," completely round lakes Zerelia (or "Zirelia") for the origin of which the final explanation is still being sought. Are they the result of volcanic activity or the fall of meteorites? Scientists tend to conclude in the second version! Image On the borders of the Municipality of Almyros you will find beautiful beaches and picturesque coastal settlements at the entrance of the Pagasetic Gulf, such as Amaliapoli ("Nea Mitzela"), Nies, Pigadi Pteleou, and Achilleio with nice fish taverns and tsipouro restaurants. In Amaliapoli and Achilleio there are infrastructures for welcoming sailing boats that circumnavigate the Pagasetic or make a stop on their journey to and from the Northern Sporades. Othrys, the mountain of surprises Othrys (or "Orthrys") with its highest peak reaching 1726 meters, is the natural border between Magnesia and Fthiotida, between Thessaly and Central Greece. It is a mountain covered by a veil of mystery, has been associated with the myth of the Titans, and hides many secrets, both for the nature lover and for the historian. Image In its wonderful natural landscape are hidden gorges, waterfalls, stone bridges, and more than 50 caves. West of the village of Agios Ioannis at 1200 meters altitude is the underground river of Nerosplia, one of the largest in Greece, with a length of explored routes reaching 1400 meters. On this side of the mountain, near the village of Kokkotoi, is also the most important pilgrimage site in the area, the Ano Monastery of Panagia Xenia, the foundation of which is placed around the end of the 10th century. The local specification "Ano" (Upper) is necessary to distinguish it from two other monasteries that also have the "surname" Xenia and are located lower: the Old Kato Monastery of Xenia and the New Kato Monastery of Xenia. If we take into account that over the years, 3 other monasteries that no longer exist had the same name, the confusion seems inevitable. Image Speaking of things that no longer exist, descending from Othrys, it is worth making a stop at Palaios Platanos, a village that was destroyed and rebuilt countless times from the 16th century onwards only to be permanently abandoned in the 1960s. The "ghost village" must have been the most beautiful in the area. Its stone ruins and especially the church of Agios Ioannis Prodromos cause shivers of emotion in every visitor. View More WESTERN MAGNESIA - Between Titans and Centaurs
TYRNAVOS Approximately 18 km from Larissa, a straight road, at the northern edge of the Thessalian plain, the "monotonous," flat landscape begins to change. There, where the curves of the "barren" Melouna and the unobstructed view of Olympus and Kissavos pique the interest in the traveler's eye, next to the tributary of the Pineios River, Xerias (or "Titarrisios") with its multi-arched bridge, lies Tyrnavos, the fifth largest city in Thessaly. Image Many of the local products, pears, peaches, even feta cheese, are known for their quality, but, let's be honest, Tyrnavos is synonymous with viticulture and its intoxicating derivatives. "Everything vineyards!" is a wish that is still common when glasses are clinked, which means "may we be well to put all the fields in vineyards!" And they tend to succeed! In a relatively small geographical area, the vineyards occupy 25,000 acres, about 50% of the total vineyard area of Thessaly. Although various varieties are cultivated, the absolute protagonist is Moschato Tyrnavou, as the variety Moschato Amvourgou has been officially called since 2013. The core of wine production is the Tyrnavos Wine Cooperative, which numbers approximately 500 members, but new, modern, visitable wineries are constantly being added, while in recent years the orientation seems to be changing from "simple" wines for the family table to more "savvy" proposals. Image Tsipouro, with or without? Even more famous than the Tyrnavos wines is the Tyrnavos tsipouro, with or without anise. From mid-autumn, when the hundreds of kazanis (stills) start up and the boiling begins, and for the next two months, approximately, the intoxicating fragrances of moschato flood the city. Small celebrations are set up at the kazanis of the private distillers (also called "two-day" due to the special distillation license they receive) with the cheerfulness rising after a small tour from kazani to kazani. The hundreds of tons of tsipouro produced by the "small" private individuals and the "large" distilleries (700 tons are produced by the Cooperative alone) are distributed in Greece and abroad. The Protected Geographical Indication (PGI) TSIPOURO TYRNAVOU has been recognized by a European Regulation since 1989, and in fact it is the only Greek city-municipality that has such recognition at a European level, as the other geographical indications recognized by our country concern entire departments of Greece. Tyrnavos also has a recognized geographical indication OUZO Tyrnavou. Few people know that Ouzo, the distillate that was once known as "re-boiled raki," was "baptized" in Tyrnavos in the 19th century during the last years of Ottoman rule in Thessaly. You can learn much more about Tyrnavos distillates at the Museum of Vine - Wine - House of Man (Tel. 2492350100), in the Karassos Mansion, one of the most beautiful buildings in the city. Image The "old" wealth In addition to the vineyards, the famous fabrics of Tyrnavos once brought wealth to the town. Already in the 18th century, the Tyrnavites learned the art of dyeing and processing yarns. With their large production of cocoons, they produced first-class silk and gradually developed their trade and flourished. The silk yarns of the city were exported even abroad, while the masterful, original "stambota" (printed silks) of Tyrnavos were sought after in every mansion in Thessaly, and beyond. The art of "stambota" was, unfortunately, abandoned around the 1960s. Today, very few survive, mainly as family heirlooms. Architecturally, the traces of this "old" wealth are not clear. Few mansions survive, and among them stands out the mansion of Georgios Kalakallas, the late Tyrnavite sculptor and professor of the Higher School of Fine Arts, next to the church of Agia Paraskevi, with its elaborate wood ties, sakhnisia (projecting enclosed balconies), and the intense ocher color, which is in need of immediate maintenance. Other sights of the city include the church of Panagia Faneromeni (17th century), the multi-arched bridge of Xerias (19th century) and right next to it the old Ottoman hamam (15th century). Image Bourani and Carnival The most important "sight" of the city is, of course, the Bourani, the famous carnival custom, a daring ritual of Dionysian origins, unsuitable for the prudish, which is organized on the morning of Clean Monday on the hill of Prophet Elias, before "descending" at noon to the squares of the city. The previous evening, the Tyrnavos Carnival, one of the 4-5 largest in Greece, is organized. It may seem like an "oxymoron," but next to the area where the "licentious" Bourani is organized is the most important religious monument in the area, the Monastery of Prophet Elias (probably of the 17th century). In the same area is the Dasaki of Ai-Lias, one of the favorite recreation and sports areas of the locals. A little higher and further east is Lousfaki ("small hill"), an extension of Melouna, where you will see scattered, abandoned "Kazarms," that is, military outposts that oversaw the border between Greece and the Ottoman Empire between 1881 and 1912 on the "Melouna Line" (also known as the "Berlin Line" from the homonymous Treaty of 1878). "Below" the southernmost Kazarms is the "Trypimeni," an impressive natural arch. To the west is Damasi (which was severely affected by the 2021 earthquake), one of the largest villages in the Municipality, above which is a castle that impresses with the area it occupies. Little is known about this castle, which was probably built during Byzantine times. Image The lakes of Tyrnavos A few kilometers north of the city are the two small lakes in the area. Vrysi is one of the most popular recreational areas, while Mati Tyrnavou (or "Mati Argyropouliou"), despite its small size, is an important biotope, where large quantities of crayfish were once fished. Argyroupouli is another important settlement that is famous for its beautiful square, the church of Zoodochos Pigi and its taverns. Leaving Argyroupouli and after passing Deleria, you will reach Rodia, another "must" stop for meat-eaters. A few kilometers east of Rodia, the Pineios River passes through some straits, forming beautiful meanders and impressive landscapes. The last stop on the tour is Ampelonas, the second largest settlement in the Municipality of Tyrnavos. In the beautiful market town, two stone buildings stand out, the imposing church of the Dormition of the Theotokos and the old Town Hall. Ampelonas is characterized by large open spaces, beautiful avenues with rows of trees, and the park of Agios Georgios where the Wine Festival is organized every September with multi-day cultural events. Image Tyrnavos and culture Despite the fact that Tyrnavos is an almost purely agricultural area, it knows rich cultural activity. Dozens of associations, cultural, educational, dance, choirs, theater groups, and musical groups are active in the area. The Vlachs of the area with their associations and customs play an important role. A large part of the population of Tyrnavos traces its origins to the Vlach villages of Vasilitsa Grevena (Samarina, Smixi, Avdella) while many of the Argyroupoulites are Arvanitovlachs (or "Arvantovlachs") with a more distant origin from the areas of Konitsa, Pogoni, and Grammos. Their harmonious coexistence with the "native" Tyrnavites, enriches and "colors" the cultural burden of an, in any case, historical area. View More TYRNAVOS - Tsipouro gladdens the heart…
MOUZAKI At the northern edge of the Karditsa Regional Unit, Mouzaki serves not only as the area's commercial and administrative heart but also as a crucial crossroads connecting routes to and from Argithea, the stunning Lake Plastira, and the historic Pyli of Trikala. This relatively "new" and vibrant town, despite suffering setbacks from destructive storms in recent years, spreads proudly at the foothills of Mount Itamos, marking the eastern end of the mighty Agrafa range. It nestles beside the Pamisos River, a major tributary of the Pineios. Peeking through a dramatic cleft in the sheer rock faces, Mouzaki gazes upon the passes of the Southern Pindus, offering a captivating introduction to its wondrous mountainous realm. Image A Wealth of Choices Radiating outwards from Mouzaki, a multitude of routes unfold, each holding secrets waiting to be discovered by the curious visitor. Heading west towards Argithea, just 3 km from town, lies the "Palaiokamara" of Porti, a 16th-century stone bridge, a legacy of Saint Vissarion, Metropolitan of Larissa, of which only one arch remains today. Ascending towards the village itself, you'll find a launch site for hang gliders and a challenging climbing field. Porti, beyond its sun-drenched panoramic setting, boasts the Church of the Dormition of the Theotokos dating back to 1592, remnants of ancient walls at the Palaiokastro site, and for caving enthusiasts, numerous caves await exploration at the location known as "Skala". Drawing ever closer to the realm of Argithea, we reach Oxya, a village of scattered hamlets gazing across at the peaks of Mount Karava, neatly bisected by the Pamisos River. In one of its settlements, Mesorrachi, stands the Monastery of Agia Triada (Holy Trinity) of Oxya, its walls adorned with smoke-darkened frescoes from 1682. Heading towards Lake Plastira, which lies about 30 km from Mouzaki, a stop in Anthochori is well worthwhile. A pleasant 20-minute hike from the stone watermill leads to a small yet impressive waterfall. Equally charming is the Kamara Anthochoriou, a small stone bridge in a delightful setting, reachable after a 5 km drive along a dirt track. Image Heading Eastward A few kilometres east of Mouzaki sits Ellinopyrgos. This traditional settlement derives its name ('Greek Tower') from the ruins of a 4th-century BC tower found on the village's northern side. Easily accessible, it offers breathtaking 360-degree views. Your gaze can stretch from Mouzaki and Pyli of Trikala all the way to Fanari and even further, towards Domokos. Although often called a 'castle', it likely served as a phryctoria (beacon tower), maintaining visual contact with the harder-to-reach towers at Ellinokastro and Pyrgos Ithomis. Nestled amidst lush vegetation, 1 km from Pyrgos Ithomis, the Church of the Twelve Apostles marks the entrance to the Mega Gorge. This ravine is dramatically carved between the hill of the local 'acropolis' and a rock formation known as "Stefani tis Panagias" (Our Lady's Crown), where a cave shelters a miracle-working icon. Image In Karaiskakis's Birthplace Returning towards the plain, a detour to Mavrommati is a must. In the birthplace of Georgios Karaiskakis, the legendary, famously outspoken general of the Greek Revolution, visitors are greeted by his imposing equestrian statue. The illegitimate son of a nun known as "Kyra-Zoi," he was born in 1782 in a cave (which you can visit) located north of the village. From there, it's another 2 km to reach the historic Monastery of Agios Georgios (St. George). Back in the village square, a visit to the house where Karaiskakis lived until the age of 17 can be perfectly paired with the adjacent, wonderful Museum of Folk Art, a lifelong passion project of Mrs. Melpomeni Tziouvara. Image At the easternmost edge of the municipality, two of Karditsa's most beautiful villages await. The neighbouring settlements of Fanari and Kanalia share a strategic position, commanding views over the ancient routes from Epirus into Thessaly. Indeed, the formidable Fanari Castle was one of the most significant Byzantine strongholds of its era. Kanalia, with its almost 'suspended' square hosting delightful tavernas, its winding alleys touched by hints of Epirote architecture, and its sweeping vistas encompassing Fanari Castle, distant Mount Olympus, and the boundless plain, provides the perfect, picturesque 'epilogue' to your explorations. View More MOUZAKI - Sentinel of the Plain
