Koukourava Pelion Greece
It is over 125 years old and sits atop an outcrop of rock above the small village of Koukourava near famous Portaria and scenic Makrinitsa villages. At 400m above sea level, it offers commanding views of the panorama of the sea, the mountains and Volos below. Both bedrooms in the main house lead on to a balcony overlooking the view and the large sun terrace which is a focal point for relaxing, eating and socialising and watching the scenery change.
Now it is part of the south community of Makrinitsa panorama icon at an altitude of 300m situated next to the Mega Rema River. It has all the characteristics of a typical Pelion village, wonderful views across the valley of Volos and with verdant natural landscapes of Pelion. It is located just 4k from the centre of Volos. panorama icon
There are plenty of stone fountains, springs, watermills, an old leather factory, old mansions that date between 18th and 19th century, arches, old bridges, and many old dristeles (the washing machine of nature, or basically a large nozzle connected to the spring which clean using the water pressure) and cobbled streets. The central cobbled footpath that finishes in the square of Makrinitsa starts here and has enchanting views for the majority of it, which runs for 4.8 km with variants in altitude of 340m, and is in excellent condition. It is quite awe inspiring to see how the traditional Pelion architecture has been maintained throughout the years to such a high standard. A couple of great example is the the old mansion of Vaitzi (1761) and the tower of Skoteinoti.
One of the many advantages of the communities of Koukourava and Makrinitsa is the wide choice of accommodation available. Wonderfully restored guesthouses and many of the classic mansions now converted in to rented rooms!
Koukouvava is an ideal destination for visitors who wish to be close to nature, but also to civilization! Within a distance of 20km you will find the ski center, Agriolefkes, at Hania. panorama icon
Makrinitsa is just 10km away via Koukourava and 17km via Portaria.panorama icon
Koukourava (the name is probably Slavic) was founded during the Turkish occupation in the mountains at a height of 450m, above Lake Karla with an impressive stone built footpath, which until today, is kept in perfect condition.
The old village of Koukourava was abandoned for the first time during the period of the civil war when its residents settled in Larissa living in shacks for approximately three years until they could return in 1950. Once back in their village the majority of inhabitants built up the houses that were burnt and continued to live their lives in the village. However, a couple of families decided to build their homes in the cobbled area of ‘Kalyvia’ (today known as lower Amygdali). This area was later abandoned due to the lack of connecting roads linking these small communities though this was finally rectified by 1972.
Sources :
Greeka.com, Around Pelion.com, ilovepelion.gr
