Pieria, this charming destination in northern Greece, is a place that has a lot to offer to every traveler. It is located at the base of Olympus, mythic and historic that embraces the Aegean Sea, offering a unique combined experience of nature, culture and gastronomy. In this travel article, we will reveal to you picturesque villages, historical monuments, wonderful monasteries and waterfalls that you can find in beautiful Pieria.
#1 Ano Milia
Pieria
The village of Ano Milia is a picturesque, mountainous village at the foot of Mount Olympus. With its stone houses, cobbled streets and green surroundings, it offers an atmosphere of total relaxation. At this lovation, you will find an open library, an interactive music board and 2 beautiful churches: Agia Paraskevi and the small church of Agios Kosmas, which was built in memory of Agios Kosmas Aitolos who passed through in 1763.
#2 Palaios Panteleimonas
Pieria
Old Panteleimonas at 500 meters altitude has been declared as a traditional settlement, keeping its traditional character and having a view that really takes your breath away. Arriving in this village, you will have to leave your car outside the settlement, since no cars are allowed. Of course, all you need in Palaios Panteleimonas is comfortable shoes to browse the cobbled, picturesque streets, admire the restored stone houses and the shops selling traditional products. Don’t forget to look for Fofos sweets, in the “old cafe”, enjoy a warm coffee, sweets and a view in the wonderful spot with a beloved view.
#3 Castle of Platamon
Pieria
The castle of Platamon is an ancient imposing castle that offers stunning views of the Thermaic Gulf and Mount Olympus. The Middle Byzantine Castle of Platamon is a very important historical monument built during the Frankish period. It is an impressive tower and was a strategic control point of the passage from Thessaly to Macedonia, either by land or by sea. The castle is uniquely preserved and is an important part of the area’s history.
#4 Ancient Pydna
Pieria
Ancient Pydna is an archaeological site with important ruins from the ancient city of Pydna. During the Byzantine period, it experienced great development as a port that functioned as an important intermediate station between northern and southern Greece. It was also known for its ceramic production and its salt pans, which contributed to the city’s prosperity.
#5 Dion Archaeological Park
Pieria
The archaeological park of Dion is an archaeological treasure with ruins of ancient temples, theaters and exhibits that are part of the history of ancient Macedonia. The sacred center of the Macedonians and the sacred place of Zeus in the region of Olympus was the privileged religious city of the Macedonians. During the Hellenistic and Roman periods, it experienced a period of prosperity, as it was one of the early colonies of the Romans in the region of Macedonia.
#6 Holy Monastery of Agios Athanasios
Just outside the town of Kolindros Pieria, in a green area, stands the Holy Monastery of Athanasios the Great. Another Monastery that suffered a lot during German occupation, as in the years 1941-44 the last of its old cells were completely destroyed and only its Catholic remained, albeit in a bad condition. During the years 1980-82 the residents of Kolindros decided and proceeded to build a new Holy Church. A welcoming, women’s monastery that is worth your visit!
#7 Enipea Waterfalls
The river Enipeas starts from the location of Prionia at an altitude of 1000m. and flows the Litochoro of Pieria. Along its route, there are natural swimming pools. Water temperature is only slightly above 0 degrees, so swimming should be done with caution. In the location of Vythos, you will meet the waterfall of Enipeas, enjoying a view towards the high peaks of Olympus, Mytikas and Stefani.
#8 Orlias Waterfalls
Pieria
Orlias Waterfalls is another impressive natural treasure worth exploring. Although it is a very popular destination for single day getaway among the locals, Rema of Orlia remains unknown to many of us. It is located on the eastern slopes of the mountain of the gods, near Dion, and creates an impressive world with waterfalls and swimming pools with crystal clear waters. The best thing this little paradise can be approached very easily by car.
#9 Holy Monastery of Agios Dionysios
Holy Monastery of Agios Dionysios is an idyllic monastery located at the foot of Mount Olympus. It is a place of spiritual search and peace. It is a monastery similar to those of Mount Athos, a fact that differentiates it from what you have encountered so far. A Holy Monastery that was set on fire by the Germans and restored through a surviving photograph of a German soldier. A historic and unique monastery that is worth visiting if you find yourself in Pieria, to get chills and be moved by hearing the history of the monastery from the monks themselves.
#10 Palaioi Poroi
A traditional settlement drowned in greenery with a wonderful forest, streams and ravines, stone-built houses of the 18th and 19th centuries, cobblestone streets, chapels and a view of Thermaikos gulf. The square of the traditional settlement of Palaios Poros seems to excel with the plane trees surrounding it. In the tavern, at the square you will have the opportunity to enjoy local dishes in a green environment. Another very good option for coffee or food is the tavern “The School” which you will find on the main road, reaching the village.
Read also: Excursion to the historical Dimitsana of Arcadia
#11 Elatochori
Pieria
Elatochori is a beautiful village in Olympus, ideal for hiking and exploring the mountain. The wild beauty of the landscape and the amazing view towards Mount Olympus will captivate you throughout the journey. The village consists of two settlements, the old and the new, and has established itself as a top winter destination, offering many mountain activities. Amongst them, you can enjoy hiking and biking on well-maintained trails, mountain climbing and winter sports at the ski resort just 8 km away. This village combines natural beauty with a wealth of alternative activities for those looking for a mountain experience that will remain unforgettable.
#12 Church of Agia Triada
The church of Agia Triada is located in Vrontos, Pieria and is built on a rock, on a steep slope, with all that’s left of the Byzantine monastery since the 14th century. You will love the tranquility and the small balcony of the church. You will be impressed by the view of the river and the steep mountain peaks of Olympus!
See more about our trip to Pieria in the highlight stories #PIERIA on Ιnstagram
