Municipality of Pteleos

Pteleos

Pteleos lies on the southern side of the Pagasitic Gulf. The villages of Aghia Marina and Lefki combine the delights of unspoiled nature with all contemporary facilities, while the beautiful beaches of Lihoura, Pachia Ammos, Draka, Marouna, Kotsikia, Briniotissa, Rodia, Kontovoli, Panayia and Loutro offer virgin sands and emerald waters. With its picturesque harbour, fishing boats and attractive tavernas, Pigadi draws many visitors, who can also enjoy the historic features of the area, such as the tombs at Lihoura and the old Venetian castle at Loutro. In a little bay at the entrance to the Pagasitic Gulf lies Achilleio, a picturesque fishing village with crystal-clear waters and an abundance of fish. The Commune of Achilleio also includes the village of Aghios Dimitrios and the little island of Argyroniso. Clean rooms for rent and seafront tavernas - this is an ideal spot for a relaxing vacation.

The Municipality of Pteleos is an ideal holiday destination, especially in the summer when most tourists choose to visit. Each separate area of the Municipality of Pteleos (Pteleos, Achilleio, Aghioi Theodoroi and Gavriani) has its own history and its own traditions kept alive to the present day. The Municipality of Pteleos lies on the southern side of the Pagasitic Gulf, just 35km from the Nea Anchialos airport, opposite the Sporades islands. The centre of the municipality is surrounded by a group of little villages and superb beaches, forming a community which combines the charms of an unspoiled natural landscape with all modern conveniences - shops, hotels, bars, discos, restaurants, etc. The busiest centres are Pigadi and Achilleio, with their picturesque harbours, tavernas serving fresh fish and a wide range of appetizers, and all sorts of night-time entertainment.

Pteleos boasts a number of historic sights and monuments, such as remains of Mycenean tombs, the Venetian castle at Pigadi with its imposing facade and superb views, the remains of an old windmill, at Hamako, the finds from the old settlement at the same location, the Lihoura wildlife sanctuary, the Othrys mountain range with its recently discovered caves, and the maritime museum at Achilleio - and many, many more sights worth seeing.
Magnesia, PteleosAs well as the historic remains there are innumerable churches and chapels, whose history or location make them an interesting point of call for the visitor. The picturesque chapel of Aghios Georgios, built on a hill, is worth a visit: it offers a panoramic view - day and night - of the Pagasitic Gulf and the whole of Mt. Pilion.
The beaches at Aghia Marina, Lefki, Lihoura, Loutro, Pachia Ammos, Draka, Mitrouna, Kotsikia, Briniotissa, Rodia and Panayia are among the cleanest and most beautiful beaches in south-eastern Magnesia. Some of them are easily accessible with contemporary infrastructure and all usual facilities, while others are more remote and deserted, providing opportunities for a romantic getaway to spotless beaches and turquoise waters.
The beach at Agios Dimitrios is a favourite location for all those who love the combination of crystal-clear sea and unspoiled nature.
After a full day at the beach you can relax and enjoy lively entertainment at the many tavernas, sampling the fresh fish for which Pteleos is famous, or drink a coffee or cocktail at one of the many cafeterias. The beaches and coastline of Pteleos have received many Gold Starfish and Blue Flag awards for their high standards of cleanliness and beautiful natural sands.

Gavriani

Gavriani lies at the feet of Mt. Othrys, a lushly verdant area full of waterfalls. The local people rear livestock and grow herbs and cereal crops.
 

Achilleio

Modern Achilleio lies on the edge of the bay of Pteleos. Before 1920 the local people lived on the nearby hills, and you can still see the old windmill, the remains of the old village and the Aghion Anargyron church with its beautifully preserved wall paintings. Excavations in the region show that it has been inhabited since ancient times. Mythology claims that the village name comes from the Homeric hero Achilles, supposed once to have lived here. Most of the people are still engaged in farming, livestock rearing or fishing, with many now working in the tourist industry. The marine museum, the only one of its kind in the region, is well worth a visit.

Aghioi Theodoroi

We know little about the early days of Aghioi Theodoroi; the village was burnt to the ground by the Turks in 1821 and the inhabitants led a nomadic existence up to 1845 when they decided to settle on the current site of the village, attracted by its excellent climate and beautiful setting. Most of them are now engaged in farming and livestock rearing. Visitors will enjoy the clean air and the beautiful view, as well as the mouth-watering local meat dishes.

Othrys

Finally we must mention the Othrys mountain range, occupied since ancient times and clearly referred to in ancient sources and mythology - in the 'battle of the Titans', for example. Othrys is a wonderful setting for hiking, climbing and visits to old and historic monasteries. The best time of year to enjoy the majestic beauty of the Othrys landscape is from May to November, but more adventurous souls will enjoy skiing and hiking in the snow-covered landscape in the winter months.
 

Municipality of Pteleos: http://www.pteleos.gov.gr/