Pyli - Elati - Pertouli

A passage from the plain of Trikala to the mountainous region of Southern Pindos. However, you should not be in a hurry to cross it!

Pyli is a small picturesque town of Trikala, built at the foot of the Koziakas and Itamos mountains. Between them a natural opening is formed, a natural gate from the Thessalian plain to Southern Pindos. This is where the town gets its name.Between the two mountains flows the Portaikos River, which after a course of 32 kilometers empties into the Pineios River. Its banks are connected by a total of five bridges. In the center of the village, you will see the famous single-arched bridge of Agios Vissarion, one of the largest stone bridges of mountainous Greece, built in 1514. It is the symbol of the town and is preserved in excellent condition. It bridges the two mountains and until 1936 was the only passage for the inhabitants to reach the highlands from and to the Thessalian plain. There is ample parking space available.

On the route towards Elati, a detour is a must at the point where the signs indicate Stournaraika. Before reaching it, you will find a turn with a sign toward the village of Ropoto. Continue straight ahead and within a few meters you will see signs for Ano, Mesa and Kato Palaiokarya. Then, immediately after crossing a small bridge, turn left onto the dirt road and in 100 meters you will arrive at the famous bridge of Palaiokarya. This stone bridge is perhaps the most beautiful and most photographed in Greece, as it is located in a magical setting with two waterfalls perfectly complementing the fairytale landscape.

In general, upon arriving here you will find yourself in an idyllic mountain location where, apart from the bridge, the gorge of Palaiokarya dominates, along with the peaks of Gropa and Karava of Southern Pindos, the Portaikos River and the rich beech forest of Katouna.

Now, if you cross the bridge and continue your way, after just 5 minutes of walking you will reach the dristela and the watermill of Palaiokarya. The word dristela essentially describes the well-known water-powered washing facilities found in other parts of Greece too: something like a natural washing machine where people in the past washed clothes, sheets, and even carpets. The area has now been shaped to include seating under the plane trees, where you can enjoy a coffee or beer.

The old watermill, on the other hand, will give you the chance to see firsthand the traditional process of producing flour. Entry is free and the mill is fully functional, as it continues to produce flour—from corn as well as from zea. It also grinds the so-called “tarama,” which is intended for animal feed.

Ελάτη

In the southern part of Pindos, 32 kilometers from Trikala, the beautiful Elati is a beloved winter destination, a less cosmopolitan version of glamorous Arachova, thanks to its short distance from the very popular Ski Center in Pertouli. It remains picturesque and is ideal for walks either within the village or in the surrounding forests.

Elati is an ideal “base” for road explorations on Koziakas. By following the well-maintained and safe trails, you can easily reach various mountain refuges on the slopes of Koziakas, which offer amazing views. The forest around Elati is dense, with many deciduous trees at the lower points and with fir trees as you go higher in altitude. It is even considered a habitat for bears, so it is possible to encounter signs of their presence.On the other hand, if you are familiar with climbing, just 15 minutes from the village, at the location “Red Rock”, there is an organized climbing field offering a total of seven routes with various levels of difficulty — all secured with the required bolts and anchors.

PERTOULI – Mountain Paradise

περτούλι

Mountain scenery with fir forests, alpine meadows, scenic routes and a ski resort on Mount Koziakas.

Pertouli is one of the oldest and most important villages of Pindos. Opposite the famous Meteora, it is a place drowned in greenery, an unspoiled and unpretentious mountain microcosm waiting to be discovered. It is famous for its ski center, which has 3 slopes and 3 lifts. There are chalets, equipment rental and sales shops, and schools with specialized instructors who will introduce children to the secrets of skiing and snowboarding.

Apart from skiing, around the ski resort, in the meadows of Pertouli, there are facilities for every kind of activity, from horse riding and archery, to rides with ATV vehicles (“four-wheelers”) and snowmobiles.

You can also explore the University Forest, which spreads across thousands of acres. The dense vegetation, springs, brooks, streams and small lakes will make children fall in love with the place. It consists mainly of fir and pine forests, with some areas of subalpine pastures and mountain meadows. The area is ideal for hiking — always with respect for wildlife — while there are also designated areas for camping. You will find signs along the way to help you choose your route, as there are three main trails extending over a total of 16 kilometers.