Summer in the beloved mountain village of Western Macedonia is a wonderful experience.
An ideal destination for travelers who like hiking, nature, and historical monuments, Nymfaio is a beloved mountain village near Florina, at 1,350 meters above sea level. Although it is synonymous with the wild northern winter, it is a fantastic summer escape that offers wild nature.
Being a protected UNESCO settlement in the Top 10 of the most beautiful villages in Europe, the mountain village with its picturesque cobblestones, the imposing Nikeios School, and the half-ruined headquarters of Pavlos Melas is deservedly considered one of the most must-go winter destinations.
It stands out thanks to its traditional Macedonian hospitality and the stone aesthetic that reminds us of Epirus and deep winter.
The first registered landmark of the Vlach village is the great Nikios School, an important school of the region and a donation of the great tobacconist Zan Nikou in 1928.
Equally important is the renovated Neveska House of Goldsmiths, which functions as the Museum of Gold and Silver-smithery, Folklore, and History.
However, for those who love the tranquility of wild nature, Nymfaio is nothing but an advantageous and promising alternative away from the crowds of the beach.
Here, you will enjoy and become one with the value of wild nature. Don't forget that Nymfaio is home to the Arcturos Bear Sanctuary, a destination of real interest for the visitor.
If you want to explore more, visit the nearby Agrapidia, just ten minutes from Nymfaio, and see the smaller but equally impressive Wolf and Lynx Sanctuary. It goes without saying that if you have luck on your side, you will be able to catch a glimpse of the almost extinct ligas in Greece.
Of course, just as exciting is the horse ride through the forest where, under the light of the summer sunset, you will have the opportunity to test your riding skills and get a pleasant taste of the pre-industrial lifestyle.
There is no need to worry if you have no previous experience with riding, as during the ride, you will be accompanied by an expert who will guide you on exactly what to do and how to deal with your horse.
A horse ride through the dense beech forest is certainly the most soothing alternative to the scorching summer heat. Wander the unknown paths of Western Macedonia, you will experience with all your senses the magic of routes in the green nature of wild Greece.
Of course, don't forget, too, that Nymfaio is quite close - almost twenty minutes by car - to the wine-growing region of Amyntaios, offering you an additional summer alternative: wine-tasting.
Through a tour of the region's vineyards, you will have the opportunity to taste rare varieties of wine with a protected designation of origin.
Of course, that's how you'll understand why the region's wines have built such a household name that it's even reached restaurants in New York.
Yianni Koutroudi is a columnist for Travel. Translated by Paul Antonopoulos.
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