Central Greece has firmly established itself as one of the country’s key winter destinations. Mount Parnassus Ski Centre, the most popular ski resort in Greece, anchors the season, drawing steady crowds throughout winter. At its foothills, Arachova has evolved into the country’s most cosmopolitan mountain village – often referred to as the “Mykonos of winter” – combining skiing with a lively night life.
Further north, Karpenisi and its ski centre, long known as the “Switzerland of Greece,” shape a different winter rhythm, more closely tied to nature, altitude and longer stays. Together, these destinations define winter travel in Central Greece, where guesthouses and small hotels play a central role, offering warmth, comfort and a base for both outdoor activity and time spent indoors.
Montanema Handmade Village
Perched above a ravine, among fir trees and wildflowers, the stone buildings of this “village” are integrated organically in the surrounding landscape. Created by Christos Athanasiadis, the mountain hospitality complex consists of 34 houses, built with care and decorated with many objects found during his travels around the world. The central building houses an indoor pool, jacuzzi and hammam, along with a restaurant serving traditional dishes prepared daily with local ingredients.
Info
Anthochori, Mouzaki, Karditsa
Tel. (+30) 24450.452.20
montanema.gr
Magemeno Vouno
Literally meaning Enchanted Mountain, Magemeno Vouno lives up to its name. Created by Dimitris Ziozas on the edge of the village of Klavsi, just 9 km from Karpenisi, the guesthouse was conceived as a place to step away from noise and return to stillness. The two suites and five apartments follow a relaxed country aesthetic, with wooden ceilings and generous windows that open onto the landscape. At night, the only sounds are the gurgle of a nearby stream and the quiet crackle of firewood; mornings start with a traditional breakfast made from local produce. The Oneiropagida (Dreamcatcher) Suite features a sitting area behind a wide glass façade, framing stunning mountain views.
Info
Klavsi, Evrytania
Tel. (+30) 22370.213.27
magemenovouno.gr
Natura Chalets
Finnish pine, prized for its density and durability thanks to slow growth in cold climates, was the natural choice when Periklis Dedousis set out to create an alpine-style retreat near Karpenisi. The logs were sourced from Finland, and the chalets – not prefabricated – took two years to assemble.
Sustainability was a key consideration. The houses are energy-autonomous and bioclimatic, supplied with spring water and powered by photovoltaic systems. Large glass surfaces allow the winter sun to naturally warm the interiors. Each 70-sq-m chalet comfortably accommodates families or groups of four to five guests. On site, a small bakery workshop provides breakfast with fresh koulouria, pies and other baked goods made with local ingredients under the guidance of Mr. Dedousis, a former professional baker.
Info
8th km Karpenisi-Megalo Ηorio, Evrytania
Τel. (+30) 697.271.0041
natura-chalets.com
Forest Suites
“Good sleep, a quiet suite and a window with a view to remind you what is really important.” This is how Toula Thanopoulou describes the idea behind her boutique hotel in Megalo Horio, a place she first came to love as a visitor to the area. All 14 rooms and suites are shaped around this simple premise. The Purple Suite features a sitting area with a fireplace and a terrace overlooking the mountain. The family suite features an energy-efficient fireplace and two separate bedrooms. The Honeymoon Suite is defined by large bedroom windows, so the view is the first thing you see in the morning.
Info
Megalo Horio, Evrytania
Tel. (+30) 22370.411.55
forestsuites.gr
Ceci Suites
Established last year Arachova, this modern suite hotel offers an alternative to the area’s familiar rustic aesthetic. Its ten smart suites are designed for privacy, comfort and ease. Hydromassage comes standard, while the larger suites add the indulgence of an indoor pool. Breakfast is ordered quietly via tablet and served en-suite; soundproofed windows, autonomous heating and energy-efficient fireplaces keep the outside world at a comfortable distance. The Grand Penthouse Suite, spanning 120 sq m, accommodates up to five guests and suits families or small groups equally well.
Info
Eleftheriou Venizelou, Arachova, Boeotia
Tel. (+30) 22670.310.14
cecisuites.com
Maison Michelangelo
Maison Michelangelo began as a private family vision before evolving into a five-suite boutique hotel. The Georgatsos family, originally from Atalanti, purchased the plot with the intention of building a personal home, drawing on their background in construction to shape the project into what it is today. Stone from the original house on the site was carefully salvaged and reused both on the exterior, in keeping with Arachova’s architectural tradition, and throughout the interiors. Two of the suites are designed for couples, and the three larger ones, measuring 78 sq m, 86 sq m and 113 sq m, comfortably accommodate families or groups.
Info
Kokkali Square, Arachova, Boeotia
Tel. (+30) 697.484.4653
maisonmichelangelo.gr
This article first appeared in Greece Is (www.greece-is.com), a Kathimerini publishing initiative.