Embark on a journey to the scenic Trikala Korinthias. Starting from Athens, a two-hour drive covering 144 km will lead you to this beautiful destination. Your route takes you across the impressive Corinth Canal, a marvel of engineering.
Upon arrival, you’ll find yourself in the renowned Trikala of Korinth. This mountainous region is celebrated for its unique blend of natural beauty and worldly charm. Its proximity to major cities like Athens and Patras adds to its appeal.
In recent times, Trikala Korinthias has seen a surge in guesthouses, making it a popular choice for weekend getaways. It now stands as a strong competitor to Arachova. So, pack your bags and get ready to explore the wonders of Trikala Korinthias!
The village of Peloponnese with the unique route in Greece
The wildlife of mountainous Corinthia
Trikala Korinthias, a traditional village under the municipality of Xylokastro, is the oldest settlement in the wider Ziria area. The village is split into three settlements: Kato Trikala (900m), Mesaia Trikala (1000m), and Ano Trikala (1100m). Its proximity to the sports ski center of Ziria on the Kyllini plateau, just 12 km away, makes it a prime winter destination.
Kyllini, the largest of the Arcadian mountains in antiquity, is steeped in mythology. It’s said to be the birthplace of Hermes and the home of Hera and Hercules. The area was a popular health resort in Greece before the war, attracting patients with its thermal environment.
The settlements, built around the 10th century by Corinthians fleeing raiders, offer clean air, good wine, and spring waters – the ‘three good things’ from which Trikala derives its name.
The Three Enchanting Districts of Trikala Korinthias
Kato Trikala boasts a picturesque square embraced by two massive plane trees, surrounded by traditional taverns and cafes. A luxurious hotel nearby caters to those wishing to stay in this district.
Mesaia Trikala, the heart of Trikala, has more hotels than the other two districts. It was the base of the heroic Notarades family in the early 16th century. Here, you can admire the Tower of Notaraion and the ruined mansion of Dasaion.
Ano Trikala offers the most picturesque landscape. The traditional settlement is known for its stone and wood mansions, many converted into guesthouses. The village, restored and well-maintained, resembles a painting. The refreshing air, clean water springs, and beautiful traditional cafes around the stone square make it a must-visit.
As far as your stay in Trikala Korinthias is concerned, the options are many, and staying in Trikala, in itself, is a key element of the choice for this excursion. The “menu” includes everything: large hotels, suites, wooden chalets, traditional guesthouses, stone houses, and spa resorts.
Must-Visit Stops in Trikala Korinthias
Trikala Korinthias is a haven for food lovers, offering traditional dishes and classic flavors. The local taverns are renowned for their ribs, local delicacies, and unique flavors. The region’s main products include raisins, apples, and walnuts. Don’t miss out on trying the twisted handmade cheese pie, clay-cooked rustic rooster, Turkish delight-like ribs, oven-baked boneless pork in a clay pot, bread cheese, tender piglet, delicious lamb, and rustic rooster kapama (cooked with tomato and brandy). Be sure to try the walnut pie, a traditional Trikala recipe, and the sought-after kazan dipi.
In Kato Trikala of Korinth, make sure to visit the impressive church of Agios Demetriou, dating back to 1697, with its expressionist frescoes. Also worth visiting are the single-chamber churches of Ag. Ioannis, Ag. Makariou, Ag. Andreas, and Ag. Catholic.
In Mesaia Trikala, don’t forget to visit the Monastery of Panagia, built around 1700 by the Metropolitan of Corinth, Gregory III Notaras.
If you’re in mountainous Corinthia, spend a morning visiting Lake Doxa. This artificial lake, nestled between the mountains of Ziria and Helmos and Feneos, is often referred to as the “Corinthian Switzerland”.
Ziria Ski Resort in Trikala Korinthias
The Ziria Ski Resort, located 12 km from the settlements at an altitude of 1500 meters, is perhaps the main destination of mountainous Corinthia. The well-organized ski center features a chalet and 2 lifts that offer guests a variety of enjoyable snow activities in winter. There’s also a 400m sliding lift, and ski equipment rental is available. It’s an ideal place for beginners to learn skiing and snowboarding.
Include a visit to the cave of the Greek god Hermes in your itinerary. Located on the eastern slope of Mount Ziria at an altitude of 1,750 meters, this cave is believed to be the birthplace of Hermes, son of Zeus and Maia, according to Greek mythology. The cave, with an area of 1,200 square meters, branches into 8 chambers adorned with stalactites and stalagmites, a testament to its millions of years of existence. The main route is about 100 meters long and has a fairly downhill slope.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Trikala Korinthias is located approximately 144 km from Athens, which takes about two hours to drive. The route crosses the impressive Corinth Canal, a marvel of engineering.
Trikala Korinthias is split into three settlements: Kato Trikala at 900m elevation, Mesaia Trikala at 1000m, and Ano Trikala at 1100m. Each district offers unique features and attractions.
Trikala Korinthias earns its fairytale reputation due to its snowy winter landscapes resembling the Alps, picturesque stone and wood architecture, and enchanting traditional villages. The villages, built around the 10th century, maintain their charming medieval character with restored mansions and traditional squares.
Yes, Trikala Korinthias is an excellent winter destination. It's located just 12 km from the Ziria ski center on the Kyllini plateau, and the snowy landscape creates an Alpine atmosphere. The area has seen a surge in guesthouses making it a popular weekend getaway alternative to Arachova.
The three good things associated with Trikala are clean air, good wine, and spring waters. The settlements were built around the 10th century by Corinthians, and these three elements became central to the region's identity.
Ano Trikala, at 1100m elevation, offers the most picturesque landscape. The traditional settlement features stone and wood mansions, many converted into guesthouses, and is known for its well-maintained, restored appearance resembling a painting.
Activities in Trikala Korinthias include skiing at the nearby Ziria ski center, mountain activities, and horse rides at the Free Riding Center in Kallyga near Rethi. Visitors can also explore historical sites like the Tower of Notaraion and enjoy traditional taverns and cafes.
Trikala Korinthias is the oldest settlement in the wider Ziria area, built around the 10th century by Corinthians fleeing raiders. The area is connected to Greek mythology as Mount Kyllini was believed to be the birthplace of Hermes and home of Hera and Hercules. It was also a popular health resort before the war.
