Philonikos, a Thematic Park in KarditsaJust three kilometers outside the city of Karditsa, in the heart of a lush 17-acre area, Philonikos combines a love for animals, nature, and horseback riding with quality entertainment for all ages.
Philonikos was the name of the Thessalian horse breeder who sold the legendary Bucephalus, Alexander the Great’s horse, to Philip II. The ancient Thessalian love for horses is brought into the modern era through a thematic park named after the man who “raised” Bucephalus.At “Philonikos,” there is a professional-grade riding arena, while the stable hosts over 10 horses, each with its own unique characteristics. Horses owned by individuals who love riding but are unable to care for them on their own property can also be accommodated.Riding lessons are offered for beginners and advanced riders, along with a Riding Academy led by an experienced coach and following a European curriculum. Visitors can enjoy pony and horse rides in a fenced area or out in nature with a guide, and therapeutic riding for people with disabilities (PWDs) is provided by a specialized speech therapist. Every Monday afternoon and Saturday morning you can enjoy free horseback riding, while free archery is also offered every Tuesday, Thursday, and Sunday afternoon in collaboration with the Karditsa Shooting Club ASAK. The ZooThe heart of the park beats in its zoo, which is home to over 30 animal species: from camels, llamas, deer, kri-kri goats, and mouflons to exotic birds like the emu, and playful animals like mini pigs, Shetland ponies, and baby goats. Visitors can feed them, pet them, and take photos with them — everyone’s favorite being Leila the camel, the park’s mascot. Entrance to the zoo is free.Image Play & Event AreasPhilonikos is not just a park — it’s a complete experience for all ages, full of activities, natural contact, and relaxation. Families and young visitors will love the playground, trampoline, full-sized soccer field, and the pedal-powered go-kart track. The space is ideal for children’s parties, school trips, and organized group visits with tourist packages that combine education and fun.Image The wooden café-bar at Philonikos, with its fireplace and unobstructed view of the Agrafa mountain range, is perfect for moments of relaxation. Here, you can enjoy organic wine or tsipouro, herbal teas, a variety of coffees, and light meals such as club sandwiches, pizza, sweets, and ice cream. In the summer, the coolness of nature offers relief from stress, while in winter the snowy Agrafa seen from beside the fireplace is simply enchanting. Live performances by artists are occasionally held here as well.Useful InformationLocation: 3 km from Karditsa, on the road to Smokovo & Plastiras lakesOpening Hours: Weekends and holidays, 09:00–21:00 Weekdays, 15:00–21:00Website: www.filoneikos.grRelated TagsKARDITSA - The city of biking,PLASTIRAS LAKE - A Man-Made Wonder That Feels Eternal,
