5 destinations in Greece for autumn picnics in nature

Picnics are always a great occasion to get together with friends and have a good time, especially when the place where you will set your table is beautiful.

So, share chores about who will bring what, get organised, grab your goodies, and head for the countryside this autumn.

Parnassus

It is perfect for a relaxed picnic in a dense fir forest. You climb the mountain, choose a clearing, and set up your table. However, there is one place that is super suitable.

After passing Livadi and turning right to go up towards the ski resort, you will come across a large opening on your left about halfway up a nearly 180° bend.

So you will turn left, and you have the option to either sit right there on the large plateau or follow the dirt road and go further inside until you meet the small chapel of Agios Nikolaos, where you can have your picnic in its forecourt.

The dirt road is not always in the best condition, especially in winter. However, you can also reach it on foot, it is not very far.

After the feast, if you have an appetite, continue walking along the dirt road surrounded by fir trees. Passing by Arachova, make a stop for Vytina.

Vytina

Vytina is also an excellent choice for a picnic and is only two hours from Athens. In particular, the Forest of Vytina, with its towering trees and wooden benches, is an excellent solution.

It is, moreover, convenient because it is very close to the village of Vytina and if you need something you can get it from a tavern. Also, for exactly the same reason, you can cook absolutely nothing and buy everything there.

Cheeses and baked creams - Vytina is famous for them, and after all, fruits and natural sweets. Another spot that is beautiful for a picnic but requires a bit of a hike to get there is Mylaon's Stone Bridge at Zarzi.

Here, you will have a picnic under the plane trees, although the space to spread the tablecloth is somewhat limited compared to Dasaki.

Platanodasos of Planitero

Just outside the village of Planitero, on the banks of the Aroaniou River, there is a magnificent century-old plane tree forest, perfect for autumn excursions.

The running waters, the bridges, and the towering plane trees create a fairytale setting. Choose your plane tree, spread your blanket, and enjoy nature. It is also worth walking along the river to the traditional water mill and on the paths in the forest.

Note that there are taverns in the area, so don't worry if you forget something. You can also combine the picnic with a visit to the impressive Cave of the Lakes.

The historical Kalavryta is extremely close, so you can stop for a coffee on your way back. The area has been included in the Natura 2000 network.

Lake Doxa

Although small, Lake Doxa in the heart of Feneos is one of the most beautiful lakes in the country. It is located at an altitude of 900 m, surrounded by towering fir trees and is truly a beautiful spot. It was created in the late 1990s by the dam of the Doxa stream.

On its shores, therefore, you can enjoy one of the best picnics overlooking the calm waters of the lake and the forest that spreads around it. Characteristic of the lake is the small church of Agios Fanourios in the middle of it, which is connected to the land by an alley.

If you want to go mountain biking, pedal boating or canoeing, you can contact an alternative tourism company in the area and enjoy your excursion to the maximum. If you like hiking, there are several trails that go into the forest.

A breath away from the lake is the village of Archaia Feneos, where you can get everything you need.

Livadakia Beach

If you don't want to leave the sea even in autumn, you will go to Evia, specifically Livadakia Beach. It is a pebbly beach between rocks clothed in plenty of greenery that offers complete isolation and a wonderful view of the Aegean.

Picnicking here needs a lot of organization as there is no settlement nearby, so you can easily get something you forgot. Make a do list and prepare well before you start.

Voula Akrivaki is a columnist for Travel. Translated by Paul Antonopoulos.

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