EXCURSIONS
A few different ideas for discovering the area.
A pleasant short trip from Stomio is a visit to the Monastery of Agios Dimitrios.
Follow the main road south; about 1,000 metres from Stomio 4 Seasons you will reach the turn for the monastery. From there, it is approximately 2 km away.
The route passes through the area’s natural landscape and leads to a historic monastery in a peaceful setting at the foot of Mount Ossa.
Useful information: Appropriate clothing is required when visiting the monastery.
For those who love mountains and nature, Arioprino is one of the area’s loveliest short excursions. The route passes through the lush landscape of Mount Ossa.
Arioprino is about 3 km from the junction after Karitsa, and the drive through the forest is part of the experience itself.
It is a lovely place to stop, rest and enjoy nature, especially on hot summer days, when a small taverna operates for food, coffee and refreshments.
After the village of Karitsa, continue along the dirt road towards Kalypso Gorge. You can drive part of the way and then
after a walk of about 35 minutes you will reach the waterfalls and natural pools.
When water levels allow, the natural pools offer an opportunity for a swim.
Continuing from Arioprino along the forest road, a scenic 16 km route leads to the mountain refuge on Mount Ossa.
From there, hikers can follow a relatively straightforward mountain route to the summit at 1,978 m.
For a different day trip, head up to Rapsani, a beautiful traditional village built on the slopes of Lower Olympus.
Rapsani is known for its long wine-growing and winemaking tradition. A walk through the village lanes, a stop in the square for coffee or food, and a taste of local wines can easily fill a pleasant morning or afternoon.
It is an excursion that combines mountain scenery, tradition, local flavours and beautiful views.
Heading south towards the Vale of Tempe, you will come to Agia Paraskevi. The small, picturesque chapel built into the rock beside the Pinios River is well worth a stop.
Access is via the suspension footbridge over the Pinios River, with a picturesque landscape all around.
Ask for directions to the small tunnel where, according to local tradition, blessed water flows at the far end.
Farther south, beyond Agia Paraskevi, lies the historic village of Ampelakia.
Here you can see the Schwartz Mansion, the three-storey home of the president of the historic “Common Company”, built in 1787. The village also preserves several well-kept stone mansions, traditional stone fountains and picturesque lanes.
Historically, the village developed a strong local economy around silkworm breeding and silk production.
There is no need to try to see everything. Choose a beach, a mountain route or a village, and leave some room for spontaneous stops along the way.
And if you would like a suggestion, just ask us. We will be happy to recommend a route based on what you enjoy.