Holidays in Portaria

An introduction to Portaria

Mother Nature must have had a real soft spot for Portaria. One of Pelion's most picturesque villages, it sits on a cushiony-green mountainside, looking down over the Pagasiticos Gulf. But although you're high in the hills here – at an altitude of 650m to be exact – you can get down to the region's beautiful beaches easy enough. Once you clap eyes on this delightfully traditional village though, you might want to dedicate much of your time to staying put. Peeking out between the trees and filled with colourful flowers, Portaria's as pretty as a picture. At its heart, is the main square – a nice spot to step into the slow pace of life. You'll also find the 13th-century chapel, Panagias tis Portareas, with its striking frescoes here. It's well worth a look. Other sights to put at the top of your list are the Byzantine Monastery of Prodromos at the top of the village, and the church of Agios Nikolaos dating from 1856. When you're not getting knee-deep in history though, spend time strolling though the tranquil cobble-stone streets, fringed with whitewashed houses, mansions and friendly little shops. And if you like walking, the surrounding countryside is your oyster. Portaria is just as welcoming in the winter months, too. Those in the know unpack their woollies here and make a daily 12-kilometre journey to Agriolefkes, a popular skiing centre. Whichever season you visit in, after dark is always a delight in Portaria. As the street lights switch on, peruse the menus at the authentic restaurants where home-cooked food and good company is the order of the day. Then finish your evening off with a nightcap at one of the atmospheric bars, some of which have live music. With all this on your doorstep, it's no wonder Portaria's a firm favourite with holidaymakers who are lucky enough to know about it. And now you do – what are you waiting for?

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