7 Reasons Why You Should Hit Greece For Your Next Ski Holiday

Greece is known for its sunny beaches, hot summer and beautiful islands, but few people realize it is also home to some magnificent mountain ranges. With a plethora of winter resorts that offer ski runs with different levels of difficulty, Greece is a great destination for a winter holiday. Here are seven resorts that will prove you why you should hit the slopes in Greece for your next ski holiday.

Parnassos Ski Resort

Ski Resort

Parnassos Ski Resort is probably Greece’s most popular ski resort, as it is only two hours away from Athens. But that’s not all, Parnassos Ski Resort is also close to ancient archaeological site Delphi. When it comes to snow fun, Parnassos means business, with 13 lifts to 19 ski runs, seven ski routes, 10 trails and three mini-beginner runs. With an altitude of 2260 meters (7415 feet), Parnassos offers ski lovers peaks covered in snow for long seasons. At night, relax in one of the many cafés and bar of the nearby town, Arachova.

Kalavrita Ski Center

Resort

Located on Mount Helmos, Kalavrita Ski Center is a popular ski resort located in the Peloponnese. At an altitude of 2340 meters (7767 feet), Kalavrita is set in a breathtaking alpine landscape. The resort boasts 12 ski runs (two difficult, two intermediate, six easy and two very easy) of 20 kilometres (12.4 miles), two chair lifts and five ski lifts. It also includes special grounds for snowboarding and other winter attractions.

Velouxi Ski Resort, Karpenisi

Resort

The Velouxi Ski Resort is located in the region of Evrytania, close to the town of Karpenisi, four hours from Athens. The resort has nine ski runs, and three off-piste ski runs. Snowboarding enthusiasts will also rejoice at the mention of the two fully organized snowboard runs and a snowboard park. Take a break from the slopes and take the time to visit Karpenisi, a charming mountain town with little cafés and restaurants.

Mainalo Ski Centre

Resort

Open since 1965, Mainalo Ski Centre is located in Ostrakina, in the mountain range of Mainalo (or Menalo) at about 2000 metres (6561 feet). The centre is equipped with seven pistes suitable for beginners and advanced skiers as well as a snowboard park. The resort also has a modern refuge and three ski-lifts. Set in an enchanting setting, Mainalo Ski Center also has scenic trails perfect for long hikes and is conveniently located only two hours away by car from Athens.

Vassilitsa Ski Resort

Resort

Well above 2200 meters high (7218 feet), Mount Vassilitsa is home to Vassilitsa Ski Resort, a favorite for extreme winter sports aficionados. Located in the Pindos range, near Grevena, it was there that the first snowboarding jump contest was launched. The resort has six ski lifts, 16 ski runs of 16 kilometres (10 miles) as well as the longest beginners ski run in the country, measuring 3860 meters long (12,664 feet). Vassilitsa also has a snowboarding run. Once you’re there, you can explore the surrounding area, like the national park of Valia Kalda.

5 Pigadia Ski Resort

Resort, Hotel

Located in the northern part of the country, on Mount Vermio, 3-5 Pigadia ski resort boasts modern facilities, as well as installations for artificial snow. The resort includes 10 runs and seven lifts as well as a hotel. You will find yourself in a lovely natural environment. While you’re there, make sure to visit Naousa, a stunning Macedonian town with a long tradition in wine-making with unique examples of traditional architecture.

Kaimaktsalan Ski Center

Resort

The Mykonos of winter, Kaimaktsalan Ski Center is located in the scenic northeastern slope of Mount Voras, at 2480 meters (8137 feet). The ski centre boasts six ski lifts and 13 ski runs, and a snowboard fun park for snowboarders and free skiers. The resort also has a beautiful chalet equipped with modern facilities, from where you can enjoy breathtaking views of the surroundings. Take a relaxing break and visit the thermal springs of Loutraki located at the foot of the mountain, you won’t regret it.

About the author

Ethel Dilouambaka

Polyglot (with a Master Degree in Translation), adventure seeker, professional shower singer and food enthusiast, Ethel enjoys spending quality time with friends and family, usually with a certain amount of eating and drinking involved. Brussels-bred and Athens-bound, she loves traveling around the world, uploading photos on her Instagram feed and daydreaming with a good book in her hands. Want to see the world through her eyes? Find her on Instagram at @heyitsetelle