Alexander Papandreou’s Top 5 Destinations

Cooking was his dream come true.

In grtraveller, chef Alexandros Papandreou does not suggest recipes but five wonderful travel destinations.

Although his love for the Aegean is a given, he has chosen for our readers places that can be reached by bus.

See Alexandros Papandreou’s recipes at www.alexandrospapandreou.gr, on his Youtube channel Alexandros Papandreou and follow him on Instagram @alexpapandreou.

Galaxidi

A beautiful and relatively quick excursion is Galaxidi. In 2.45 minutes you can get to a place that is warm even in winter and you can sit comfortably outside as soon as the sun comes out for a while. The options for walking and exploring are many. A romantic walk is to the opposite peninsula with the pine forest reaching the sea, “the monument of the sailor’s wife” and beyond to the capes Pounta and Tripori. You can also climb the hill Xirotiri, north of Galaxidi, on the slope of which is the cave of Agonas with stalactites, carved steps and an ancient jar wedged in its bottom. As for food, the choices are many. I recommend fish and chips with ouzo overlooking the fishing boats.

Kastoria

The Lady of Macedonia. One of the most beautiful cities of northern Greece, framed by the imposing mountains of Grammos and Vitsi, the famous city of the fur traders has been reflected for centuries in the white waters of Lake Orestiada. Built amphitheatrically, on a narrow peninsula, it seduces visitors with its endless beauty, nobility and serene aura. Go around the lake by running, walking or even better by bike!!!! It is the place where you will relax, calm down and really clear your mind of everything.

Lake Plastiras

One of the most beautiful places that if you go once you will want to go again is Lake Plastira. Four hours from Athens and you are truly in a unique paradise. The scenery is fascinating as the beautiful lake is embraced by high lush mountains, while the area is considered a “paradise” for every nature lover as it offers the possibility for climbing, fishing, practicing all kinds of mountain sports and walks in the forest. The main motivation for travelling is to be in another place and to escape, even temporarily, from the routine, restrictions and stress of everyday life.

Makrinitsa

Makrinitsa is one of the most beautiful villages of Pelion due to its unique architectural physiognomy. It is 17 km from Volos. and enchanting as it harmoniously combines the building with the natural environment. The traditional architecture is evident and characteristic in buildings such as the old hydroelectric power stations, the churches, the arched bridges such as the one of Karia and the numerous mansions where museums and services are housed today. The large square of the settlement is a meeting point for locals and visitors alike. Age-old plane trees, the church of Agios Ioannos, the “Lions” and of course the great view of the city of Volos make up the scenery. It is a perfect village to stay in winter if you want to go skiing and hiking and in summer to make excursions to Pagasitikos or to the back of Pelion on the Aegean side!!!!

Lefkada

Lefkada is one of the most famous destinations in the Ionian Sea. It boasts stunning natural landscapes, but also some of the most fabulous beaches in the Mediterranean, often renowned around the world. The activities and fun in Lefkada never end, as the island offers plenty of options for sports, excursions, eating, drinking and dancing! Visit the mountain villages and don’t forget to try the famous Lefkada salami and buy the famous Eglouvi lentils. See more about Lefkada in the video I have made on my YouTube channel: https://youtu.be/i2px4YDXXYg