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Unless otherwise noted, all pictures on this site were taken in Pelion, Greece, shown on the map below.

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View images of the Common Toad, an ugly, bulky, but really sweet creature with an interesting... nightlife.

  Veggie of the Month

Learn about the Salsify, a beautiful plant, with edible and medicinal properties, that is currently blooming in Pelion.

  Cool Destination

Visit Mourtias, one of Pelion's most picturesque beaches on the Aegean coast.

  Exciting Site

Tour the Volos Archaeological Museum, a pretty century-old building, whose exhibits span a historical period of over 10 millennia!

  Month's Wallpaper

Download a fantastic picture of a rickety jetty in Lefokastron, Pelion, taken by Huw Jones.

Loading image. Please wait Aristoteles and Mom :: Lyri, Pelion :: August 2002 :: © A.Papadopoulos Aristoteles and Mom :: Lyri, Pelion :: August 2002 :: © A.Papadopoulos Lyri Beach :: Lyri, Pelion :: August 2002 :: © A.Papadopoulos Boat Shed :: Lyri, Pelion :: August 2002 :: © A.Papadopoulos Crystal Waters :: Lyri, Pelion :: August 2002 :: © A.Papadopoulos Another View of the Beach :: Lyri, Pelion :: August 2002 :: © A.Papadopoulos

Lyri

Lyri, pronounced Lyr by the locals, is my youngest son Aristotle's favorite beach, so I guess I have to write something about it.

It's located on the Aegean coast and is a fairly large stretch of beach, with nice, green waters. It is interesting in that a zone of large boulders, approximately 10 meters (33ft) wide, separates the coarse sand that covers most of the shore. These were probably deposited there by the stream that discharges into the sea.

Like most streams in Greece this one is characterized by its seasonal flow, so chances are it will be dry if you visit Lyri during the summer. Nevertheless, it is nice, as its banks are lined with thick aquatic vegetation and it attracts quite a few dragonflies and damselflies.

The lower slopes of the cliffs that surround the beach are covered with maquis and garrigue, whereas large pine trees occupy the higher slopes. The rocks to the left, facing the sea, form cavities of various sizes. This is where most of the swimmers congregate, although the beach never gets too crowded. If, however, you decide to go against the tide and pick the right side of the beach, watch your step, as there are quite a few sea urchins on that end.

Other interesting things to see in Lyri are the two rock boat-sheds on the right-hand-side of the beach, as well as a small, white church, located a few hundred meters from the waterfront, which contrasts sharply against the green aquatic vegetation.


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Restaurants & Accommodation

There is a tavern-restaurant, resourcefully named "Lyri", about 200m (650ft) from the beach. It serves a variety of Greek dishes, as well as grilled meats. The food, although quite nice, is nothing to write home about. However, the drinks, especially the beers, are well chilled and a nice breeze cools the locality, so it's worth making a pit stop after a long day on the beach.

The same concern rents rooms. In fact, last time we were in Lyri, we happened to run into some acquaintances from Volos, who were staying there. They told us they were quite happy with the accommodations, but I don't have any first-hand-experience of the amenities, as I have never seen the rooms.


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Camping


I didn't notice any organized camping-site in the area and, although I didn't see any signs, I believe that camping on the beach is prohibited. However, on occasion, I have seen a trailer (caravan) or two parked in the small parking lot, at the edge of the beach.

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Directions


If you're in Volos or Argalasti, take the main road to Trikeri. About 2 km (1.3 miles) from Argalasti's main square, you'll reach a very distinctive intersection with two branches at 90-degree angles to the road you're on. Beware, because your brain will more than likely short-circuit owing to the sudden influx of information - there are over 30 signs posted right in front you, pointing to literally every apartment for rent within a radius of 20 km (12.5 miles) or more. Take a deep breath, concentrate, swing a left and head towards Metochi.

If you're in Horto, you'll need to reach the same intersection. It's approximately 5 km (3 miles) uphill, on the road to Argalasti. Alternatively, you can head towards Milina and follow the road adjoining the church, which leads to Lafkos. The drive is some 4 km (2.5 miles) shorter, but the road has many sharp bends and you'll miss the great view.

Drive through Metochi and Lafkos. Approx. 7.5 km (4.5 miles) from the intersection, the road bifurcates anew. Take the left branch, towards Promyri and Platanias. Keep going forward towards Promyri for about 5 km (3 miles). Just before you enter the village, take a left at the steeply ascending U-shaped turn and follow the road for another 9 km (5.5 miles).

At this point, you should see a relatively small sign pointing to the "Lyri" Restaurant, towards the left. The beach is located about 1 km (0.6 miles) from the intersection at the end of the dirt road, which runs parallel to the stream.

The road is paved all the way to Lyri, save for the last 0.8 km (0.5 miles). It is in good condition, albeit a little narrow and winding, especially in the vicinity of Promyri.

To get a better understanding of the area, check out the associated map.

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