From Ano Lechonia, to Milies: The route that was a reference point for 80 years
The train of Pelion, a historic route. It’s the legendary “Moulouris”. The train that connected the center of Volos with the west side of the mountain of the Centaurs. The Volos-Milies (Milies) route served the needs of the people who needed to go from the villages, of Pelion mountain,to the urban center.
Its construction began in 1892. It was completed in 1896. The section up to Milies was constructed afterwards. It was launched in 1903. Evaristo De Chirico, the father of the well-known painter Giorgio de Chirico, was supervising the construction of the railway network.
For about 80 years it has been a reference point for the wider region. Its engines went out for a few years as there was a service interruption between 1971 and 1996. And then they started again.
Today’s itinerary
The route starts from the station of Ano Lechonia. The train departs at 10 a.m. to Milies, in Pelion mountain. It comes back at 3:00 pm. There’s an intermediate 15-minute stop – both in going and in returning – in Ano Gatzea.
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The trip lasts 90 minutes and covers a 15 km route. The walk offers magical images. Rich nature, traditional architecture with ornate constructions carved marble stone and grey limestone. Arched bridges, tunnels, arches.
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Frequently Asked Questions
The Pelion train, also known as the legendary 'Moulouris,' is a historic railway that connected Volos with Milies on Mount Pelion. Construction began in 1892 and was completed in 1896, with the section to Milies launched in 1903. Supervised by Evaristo De Chirico, the father of famous painter Giorgio de Chirico, this train served as a vital reference point for the region for approximately 80 years, connecting mountain villages to the urban center of Volos.
The Pelion train operates daily from spring to autumn, departing from Ano Lechonia station at 10 a.m. and returning at 3 p.m., with a 15-minute intermediate stop in Ano Gatzea. The 90-minute journey covers 15 km. One-way tickets cost 10 euros for adults and 6 euros for children (ages 4-12), while return tickets cost 18 euros for adults and 10 euros for children. Special discounts are available for weekday group bookings and year-round train rentals.
Milies is a picturesque village at the end of the train route featuring rich traditional architecture with ornate marble and limestone constructions. Visitors can explore a Folklore museum and one of Greece's oldest libraries, visit the 17th-century Church of Taxiarches, stay in traditional guesthouses, and dine at local taverns serving authentic Greek cuisine and barrel wine. The village offers an immersive experience of Greek culture and heritage.
The Pelion train experienced a significant service interruption between 1971 and 1996, during which its engines were not in operation. After this 25-year hiatus, train services resumed and continue to operate today, allowing visitors and locals to experience this historic railway route once again.
The Pelion train, officially known as the 'Moutzouris,' is operated by TRAINOSE. Interested passengers can contact the company's office in Volos to book tickets or arrange special train rentals. The company offers flexible scheduling options and special group discounts for weekday travelers, making it accessible for various types of visitors throughout the year.
