Experiental travel report: Greece’s most authentic villages

Greece has some real hidden gems when it comes to its authentic villages, greekreporter.comnotes in the following article:

Where tourism has yet to spoil the terrain and tradition, you will find villages that are seeped in history and are a complete escape from it all. Here are some of the site’s favorite picks for authentic Greek villages for you to explore:

Zagori, Epirus

In the Pindus mountains in Epirus, hidden by pine forests, you will encounter the authentic villages of the Zagori region. Here, 46 small villages which together comprise the ‘Zagorochoria’ are linked by a network of roads and stone bridges dating back to the 18th century. The region is surrounded by two national parks filled with unique and endangered species, while not surprisingly, hiking and canoeing are favorite pastimes for those who visit here. Here you will find untouched villages, such as Vrad?to, where a great activity is climbing the 3,937 feet of stone steps that until 1973 provided the only access to this village. Then, be sure to reward yourself with traditional Greek food at one of its family-run taverns.

Monemvasia, Peloponnese

The historic and magical ambience of the town of Monemvasia, as well as the surrounding area of Laconia, is a secret getaway that you have to see to believe. It is located just off the east coast of the Peloponnese. Even more enchanting is the story of how this small island came to be: the result of an earthquake in 375 A.D. The majority of the rock-island is made up of a large plateau, soaring some 100 meters above sea level. The charming town of Monemvasia overlooks Palaia Monemvasia bay and is made up of narrow, winding streets that are only traversed by foot or donkey.

Pelion, Central Greece

Mount Pelion is dotted with authentic villages. One of the best ways to submerge yourself in the culture of this area is to treat yourself to a train ride on the Moutzouris, the oldest railway in the country.

You can enjoy a three-hour stroll through the foothills and stop at untouched villages such as Kala Nera and the totally traditional village of Milies. One of the best times to visit this area is in winter, where you will see this mountainous district transform to something like a fairy tale. There are plenty of short hikes you can take through olive groves and ravines to travel from one village to another.

Chora, Folegandros Island

Folegandros is a small, picturesque Greek island that remains virtually unknown to tourists. Only an hour by high-speed boat form the popular island of Santorini, Folegandros is for those who are looking to experience a more simple and unforgettable Greek experience. Known for its unspoiled landscapes, Folegandros was named after the son of King Minos. There are only three small villages on the island. The main village, Chora, is filled with houses painted in white with multi-colored doors and windows high in the cliff above the blue sea. There are quaint squares and taverns, so visitors will not run out of things to do when they are not enjoying the beautiful beaches, which are practically empty!

Platanos, Aetolia-Acarnania

Plantos means “plane tree” in Greek, and this small village is as authentic as it gets. The community of Platanos is subdivided into two villages, Platanos and Kato Platanos. Platanos had population of only 207 in Plantanos in the 2011 census, while Kato Platanos had 253 residents. The two villages are surrounded by wild, pristine nature and have charming, quiet town squares.

Karytaina, Arcadia

This village flourished in the Frankish period, and its castle was one of the most significant in its time in the Peloponnese region, an attribute that is evident from its architectural style. This is one of the most impressive historical Greek villages you will find. Located on top of a hillside with the Alpheus river traveling through its foothills, there is much to see in this authentic and hidden Greek village.

Kalarrytes, Epirus

When you arrive at Kalarryes, you will immediately be impressed by the dramatic scenery. The village is built on the edge of the steep canyon which leads to the Kalarrytikos river. It is some 1,200 meters in elevation and the village boasts traditional houses, narrow, winding roads and breathtaking views of the snow-capped mountains.