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.

1. 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.

2. Kalavrita Ski Center

Resort

Kalavrita Ski Center

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.

Kalavrita Ski Center – Kalavrita, Helmos, Peloponnese, Greece. +30 2692 024451

3. Velouxi Ski Resort, Karpenisi

Resort

Velouxi Ski Resort, Karpenisi

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.

Velouxi Ski Resort, Karpenisi, Greece. +30 2237 023506

Up on the lift at Velouchi Ski Center | © dims321/WikiCommons

5. 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.

6. 5 Pigadia Ski Resort

Resort, Hotel

3-5 Pigadia Ski Resort

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.

3-5 Pigadia Ski, Naousa, Greece. +30 2332 044300

7. Kaimaktsalan Ski Center

Resort

Kaimaktsalan Ski Center

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.

Kaimaktsalan Ski Center, Edessa, Greece. +302381032000 or +306943031001

Skiing on the Kaimaktsalan, Greece | © Apostolos/Flickr

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