Pelion Peninsula, GREECE
Airing Date: Feb 13th, 2006
Known as the Alps with beaches, the Pelion has long been a summer playground for Greek families. There are two coasts the Aegean, with a series of white-pebble coves where the mountains meet the sea, and the gentler contours that lead to the Pagasitic Gulf.
Damouhari is a hamlet by the sea and is 65km from Volos. Its natural port is very beautiful and here you can see the old Venetian houses and a Byzantine castle. You can take a walk on the cobble-stoned paths, past old houses in the hamlet, or for a longer walk, you can follow the path that connects Damouhari with Mouresi and Tsangarada.
The beach here is beautiful with pebbles. Along the side of the beach you will find fish tavernas, restaurants and bars, all with a perfect views of the sea. You can visit the church of Agia Marina in the central square, built in the 17th century, with remarkable wood carving and frescoes by Pagonis (it has been described as the finest church in Pelion).
At the central square stands the three-aisled basilica of Agia Marina [Saint Marina], which is one of the most important ecclesiastic monuments on Mount Pelion. Agia Marina is renowned for its history and delightful dcor, the high points of which are the gilded, engraved, wooden iconostasis [templum], the exquisite frescos on the walls and the four interior domes and the many Byzantine icons. The church also has a small museum inside where the visitor can admire old ecclesiastic manuscripts and books as well as several hagiographic exhibits.
Further Information
Thai Airways International flies to Athens from $1641 ex west coast and $1811 ex east coast. Prices include taxes. Subject to fluctuation. Conditions apply. Bookings must be made by 26/2/06 and travel taken before 31/3/06
Website: www.thaiairways.com.au
A 10 night Pelion Experience is from $2079 a person, twin share. Includes 5 nights at the Portaria Hotel.
Allsun Holidays
Telephone: 1800 227 472
Website: www.allsunholidays.com.au
Information is available through the Greek National Tourism Organization Australia
Website: www.gnto.gr
For more information visit:
www.travel-pelion.gr
Prices correct at 13/2/06
