Beautiful Greek region is just as pretty as Mykonos but without the crowds

Greece is one of the holiday destinations chosen by millions of British tourists every year.

In 2023 alone, 4.6 million people flew from the UK to the Mediterranean country for a sun-kissed holiday.

Greece is famous around the world for its capital city, Athens, and its stunning islands including Crete, Santorini and Mykonos.

These destinations, however, often become busy during high tourist season, with so many holidaymakers seeking to relax on, party at and explore these shores.

But there is a Greek peninsula sitting between Athens and Thessaloniki that has remained unknown to many foreign tourists – despite being home to outstanding beaches and quaint villages. 

The region, called Pelion Peninsula, is a holiday destination favoured by many Greek nationals who escape more popular areas during their summer breaks.

The city of Volos and its port is the most important centre in the area, and it sits at the top of Mount Pelion.

Overlooking the Aegean Sea, Pelion is also home to several charming villages with traditional Greek houses made with grey stone roofs and paved alleys. Among these villages are Makrinitsa, Portaria, Milies, and Tsagarada.

On the eastern side of the peninsula can be found some stunning beaches with turquoise water – including Fakistra, Damouchari, Agios Ioannis and Mylopotamos, a marvellous pebble beach close to several facilities including multiple tavernas and a bar. 

Those less keen on spending their time on the beach have much exploring to do in the area if they love history and nature.

Chestnut forests and olive groves fill the peninsula’s slopes and there are hiking trails including the Centaurs’ Path for people to tackle.

Moreover, the area is also dotted with monasteries, some dating back to the years of the Crusades.

To get to Pelion, tourists can land at either the airport in Thessaloniki or the one in Athens and drive for nearly three to four hours to get to their destination.