Just 250 meters from the bustling square, a 7-minute walk through the history of Byzantine Makrinitsa brings you to a serene and truly authentic neighborhood with sweeping views over Volos and the Pagasetic Gulf.
Here stands the Rustic Stone House, renovated in 2022 with respect for traditional Pelion architecture, now hosting a spacious, idyllic guesthouse for 2–3 guests with modern comforts. Ideal for those who love hiking and enjoy combining moments of relaxation with adventure. Discover it!
Our neighborhood, 'Sarakinos', untouched by the tourist development of the square, lies to the west and next to the mountain of the same name. At an elevation of 590 m, it offers panoramic views of Volos, the Pagasetic Gulf, and the lush slopes of Sarakinos. The location perfectly blends the tranquility of nature with immediate access to village life.
Walking towards the square, in just 5 minutes, you’ll come across a Café where you can enjoy your breakfast while taking in the endless view!
Within walking distance from the Rustic Stone House, you can discover picturesque sights such as:
- The beautiful 'Agia Triada' Church with frescoes by Giannis Pagonis.
- The famous stone Primary School (Palio Scholio) from the late 19th century, next to 'Agia Triada'. The setting of the film 'The Teacher with the Blonde Hair' (1969)
- The Konstantinidis Tower (formerly Axelon), dating back to the 17th century.
- The Patosia Bridge, the passage to Mount 'Sarakinos', and the 'Pesonton' (Stavros) monument (fallen soldiers’/ Cross).
- The small 'Heroes' Square (Heroon) with its incomparable view. Dedicated to the freedom fighters of Makrinitsa, notably Margarita Basdeki.
Built in 1215 AD on the western slopes of Pelion, at 600 m altitude, it hangs like a jewel above the city of Volos, offering an unforgettable panoramic view above the clouds towards Volos and the Pagasetic Gulf. This earned it the nickname 'The Balcony of Pelion'.
Its unique Pelion-style architecture has been preserved intact through the centuries. In 1980, it was included among the traditional settlements, maintaining its character with its manor houses, 55 ornate fountains, and cobbled streets. Makrinitsa has remained completely inaccessible to cars, intensifying the visitor's sense of a journey back in time. Movement within the village is exclusively on foot, along stone pathways (kalderimia). These paths feature straight stretches, gentle or steeper inclines, and always offer unique views at every step.
It is an ideal destination for hiking enthusiasts, offering countless options: walks along the scenic kalderimia revealing traces of the village’s Byzantine history, mapped trails through Pelion’s legendary forests, passing streams with historic arched bridges, and enjoying triumphant vistas.
Experienced hikers will find many mapped routes to enjoy:
- Fitoko–Makrinitsa (7.1 km, 3.5 hours). Passes just outside our house. From 'Patosia' Bridge, through 'Sarakinos' and the 'Pesonton' (Stavros) Monument (Fallen Soldiers).
- Makrinitsa–Koukourava (4.8 km, round trip, 2 hours). With stunning sights such as Skoteiniotis Tower.
- Makrinitsa–Portaria (6 km, 4 hours). A forest trail connecting the two villages with beautiful natural scenery.
- Path of the Centaurs (4 km, round trip, 2 hours). Next to a stream with babbling water, this is a gentle route in a magical natural setting.
Thanks to its location, Makrinitsa is the perfect base for those wishing to explore the beauties of Pelion throughout the year. Picturesque forested villages, enchanting woodland landscapes, paradisiacal beaches – all within 30–60 minutes. For winter sports enthusiasts, the Pelion Ski Center 'Agriolefkes' (1,471 m / 17,1 klm) is only 30 minutes away, while Volos’ entertainment options are just 20 minutes away.
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