4 Pelion Beaches Locals Keep Secret
If we were writing this 20 years ago, on our list with the secret beaches of Pelion we would have added of course Fakistra. It used to be our big secret for decades, until one summer it wasn’t anymore. It is likely that Theotokos, Pantazi Ammos, Alogoporos and Paradise may have the same fate in a few years. Beauty should be shared!
1. Theotokos Beach
At the easternmost point of continental Thessaly, right across from the island of Skiathos, lies the unknown to most people beach of Theotokos. It’s a long drive to get to it but the wild beauty and sacredness of the landscape will reward you.
We know from the ancient authors that in the general area of south Pelion there used to be a temple dedicated to Artemis. On the sand of Theotokos Beach you can see today the remains of an ancient Doric temple. Is it the temple of Artemis or a different one? Here, in this no mans’ land next to the raging sea, only a temple dedicated to Poseidon would have been appropriate.
It is said that around the rocks of this beach, the sea goddess Thetis used to hide, when Peleas was pursuing her and she had to transform herself into a cuttle fish to avoid him. Today, the south cape of the beach is called Sepias (cattle fish in ancient Greek).
Close to the column drums and the triglyph of the ancient temple that lie today on the beach is a mosaic floor of a basilica that was built in the 5th century AD at the same spot. The small Christian chapel dedicated to Theotokos (Holy Mary) that gave its name to the beach was built with parts (spolia) from the basilica. This is a sacred beach for more than 2,500 years…
2. Pantazi Ammos Beach
The “Green Beach” of Pelion with the rocks playing hide and seek with the sea is nature’s gift to the villagers of Syki. From afar the beach looks grey but when you start walking on the pebbles you will notice every shade of green.
Long and wide with shaded spots here and there, Pantazi Ammos is ideal for quiet sunbathing, snorkeling and camping with your family. There is plenty of space on the beach, but very few parking spots so you will need to come here early in the day.
3. Alogoporos Beach
You will have to reach the tip of the Pelion peninsula to enjoy this beach, but if you do, the experience will linger with you for a long time. The ride is long but full of sea views and surprises. When you get to Alogoporos, park your car at the back of the Alogoporos Tavern and get a sunbed or a table at the restaurant. The water-taxis that come and go to the nearby island of Trikeri will keep you company while you swim in the crystal clear water. Enjoy the super fresh sea food at the tavern and end you day with a quick visit to the island for a drink.
4. Paradise Beach
Not all secret beaches are remote or small. Paradise beach is in fact very close to Afissos and its length is more than a kilometer. But, it’s easy to miss the right turn when you drive and the sign to the beach is very small and handcrafted.
The water is shallow and ideal for families with small kids. There is plenty of space to park your car and a beach bar-tavern with sunbeds. We recommend that you keep walking to the south end of the beach next to the rocks and use your own umbrella and seats. If you love swimming next to centuries-old olive trees, then Paradise may become your new favorite beach.