pelion

Pelion refers to Mount Pelion, a prominent mountain range in Thessaly, and to the connected Pelion peninsula that projects into the Aegean Sea between the Pagasetic Gulf to the west and the Aegean to the east. The highest point of the massif is Profitis Ilias, at about 1,624 metres.

The range is covered by deciduous and evergreen forests, including chestnut, beech, and fir, with streams and gorges. The peninsula is known for its rugged coast, sheltered coves, and traditional hillside villages such as Makrinitsa, Portaria, and Milies. The landscape blends forested slopes with stone-built settlements and narrow paths.

In Greek mythology, Pelion was said to be the home of the centaurs, most famously Chiron, and a place where heroes were trained by mentors. It is also linked with the voyage of the Argonauts and other Thessalian legends.

Today, Pelion attracts hikers, swimmers, and cultural visitors, drawn by its forests, beaches, and architecture. Local products include chestnuts, honey, and olive oil; traditional stone houses and narrow lanes characterize many villages. The region hosts a historic narrow-gauge railway known as the Pelion Steam Train, which operates tourist services along a short mountain route between Ano Lechonia and Milies.

Administratively, the Pelion area lies within the Magnesia regional unit of Thessaly. The region is notable for its combination of mountain and coastal landscapes, preserved traditional settlements, and seasonal tourism.