Portaria Pelion Greece

Portaria is a beautiful mountainous traditional village at an altitude of 650m and is 13km from Volos. It was built around the monastery of “Panagias of Portaria”, which was itself built in the 13th century. The village is filled with green scenery, spring waters, cobble-stoned paths and old mansions.

There is a theory that the name Portaria comes from the Greek word ‘porta’ (Πόρτα) meaning door, and refers to the village’s position as a ‘gateway’ to the Pelion mountain. Another, perhaps more solid theory, is that it was named after the Byzantine monastery of Panagia Portarea.

This traditional village is worth a visit for its stunning location, amazing architecture, and unique history. The region can change dramatically with the seasons. In Summer, it is hot and dry. In Autumn, the area is draped in shades of yellow, red and brown, when Portaria goes through a time of relative calm. Then the “storm” of Winter brings an influx of holidaymakers who crowd the village due to its proximity to the Agriolefkes ski resort.

Portaria is a place for quite summer or winter vacations. It is extremely beautiful and full of nature and traditional houses and mansions.

From the main square to the stone cobbled alleys with the restored mansions The uphill street, passes in front of the old Town Hall, and leads to the main square. Along the way, you are accompanied by the sound of running water coming from the numerous stone founts. In Spring, The square, with its restaurants and amazing views, is vibrant with activity. And in the Autumn it is covered in leaves that have fallen from the tall plane trees which have stood in the square for centuries. They are surrounded by hydrangeas and camellias.

Sources :

Greeka.com, Around Pelion.com, ilovepelion.gr