Pella

In the land where Philip II of Macedon and his son Alexander the Great once ruled supreme, Pella rewards you in whichever season you choose to visit. In spring, mountains are awash with colourful flowers, while summer offers lung-filling fresh air amidst rivers, lakes and springs. Nature’s colours come into their own in autumn, while in winter, against the backdrop of snowy mountaintops, sunshine and showers sprinkle their own special brand of magic dust on picturesque villages. 

This is the setting that awaits you as you explore one of Greece’s most important archaeological sites and the mountains that surrounds it. 

What to do in Pella

The archaeological site

Ancient Pella was the capital of the Macedonian state from the early 4th century and excavations have brought to light a well-organised city that reflects the region’s great history. The Archaeological Museum gives you the chance to reconstruct the daily goings-on of the city in its halcyon days. 

Edessa  

There’s no better way to enjoy Edessa and its famous waterfalls than on foot, whilst you’ll be transported back to the years of the Turkish occupation with a walk around Varosi, the Christian neighbourhood with its renovated stately homes.

Old Agios Athanasios

Built at an altitude of 1200m, at the foot of Mt Voras, this traditional hamlet on the shores of picturesque Lake Vegoritida is a listed site; its stone houses a wonderful example Macedonian architecture at its best. Charming not only in appearance but also in the warmth of its hospitality, you will delight in staying in one of its many guesthouses, wandering its small cobbled streets and soaking up the convivial atmosphere in its cafes. If you require a little more action, you need look no further than the foothills of Voras, where there are opportunities for sightseeing, abseiling, horse riding and archery.

Old Agios Athanasios and Lake Vegoritida

At an altitude of 1,200m at the foot of Mt Voras, this traditional hamlet is a listed site. Its stonework and cobbled streets are fine example of Macedonian architecture, while the foothills of Mt Voras offer opportunities for hiking, horse riding and abseiling. For birdwatching or a romantic boat trip at an altitude of 600m, head to nearby Lake Vegoritida. 

Kaimaktsalan Ski Centre – Voras

Further up Mt Voras (at an altitude of 2,524m, Greece’s third-highest mountain) lies the Kaimakstalan Ski Centre. There are more than a dozen pistes to enjoy, but even if you’re not a skier, you can appreciate the exceptional views.

Loutraki Thermal Springs (Pozar or Aridaia)

At the foot of Mt Voras, in the valley Agios Nikolaos, lie the Pozar thermal springs. Fed by crevasses in the rock that form small waterfalls and natural ponds, the water temperature is a constant, invigorating 37 degrees Celsius.