It could be characterised a “seaside” mountain since Pelion raises steeply up to a height of 1.264 metres above the sea on the peninsula of Magnesia. In mythology it is mentioned as the mountain of the Centaurs, with the wise teacher Chiron, their most famous representative, teaching Asclepius, Achilles, Jason and other heroes. He taught them archery, virtue, music and also the therapeutic qualities of herbs which are found in the area in abundance.
It is a friendly, even mountain with no steep gorges. Its slopes, especially the northern part, are covered with thick vegetation, while the beautiful villages which ornate it, have a panoramic view above the sea. On Pelion you can find big forests of wild chestnut trees, beech, as well as oak and ash trees. There are also the famous apple and pear trees of Pelion, and especially the tasteful apples of Zagora which travel all round the world. At the end of autumn many go hiking in the footpaths looking for tasty mushrooms, which are also along with spetzofai, characteristic of the local cuisine.
Because of the mountain’s position, the clouds stop at the mountain top causing heavy snowfalls, declaring the start of the winter period for its ski resort, and from spring onwards the whole mountain echoes with babbling waters.
During the Ottoman rulership it is said that people escaped to Pelion and built their villages. Gradually the area developed into a small industrial centre and the ability of transportation of goods via the sea, gave affluence to the villages of Pelion. The numerous villages which sprung up among the rich vegetation of Pelion were built with material from the mountain and have the characteristic architecture of Pelion. Thanks to the mild development of tourism many of the mansions have been turned into beautiful hotels, many houses have been renovated, and the villages which are inhabited throughout the year remain active. Aside from the famous villages of Portaria which is the village welcoming visitors to the mountain, Milies with its beautiful square and the noticeable architecture of Taxiarchon church, Zagora, Tsagarada, Chania, it is worthwhile visiting the other villages which are spread all over the mountain, most of which have an unforgettable view.
Up to here we have given a brief description of the mountain since this unique mountain also has its seaside with many beautiful beaches which are at its foot. On the side of the Aegean Sea as well as on the side of the Pagasitikos Gulf, the clean waters would touch the tree roots if the golden beaches didn’t come between them. Even if you choose to stay in a village up on the mountain, the sea is only a few kilometres away, and you will combine splendidly the rejuvenating energy of the mountain with the beneficial influence of the sea.