Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
THE LITTLE TRAIN
In 1895 a 13km railway line was built between Volos and Ano Lehonia. By 1903 the
narrow-gauge line was extended to Milies, making the town a prosperous centre of
Sep, Sat & Sun Apr-Jul & Oct)
, the steam train that used to chug along this route, retired
formally in 1971, but was revived in 1997 as a weekend and holiday tourist attrac-
tion. The popular four-carriage train leaves Ano Lehonia at 10am and returns
around 3pm, leaving you time to stroll around Milies.
A restored Belgian coal-burning locomotive pulled the train when the route first
re- opened. But in 2000 a new diesel engine went into service after the train oper-
ators grew tired of following the smoke-belching original with a water tanker to put
out the frequent grass fires started by airborne sparks. Despite the environmental
upgrade, To Trenaki is still calledMoudzouris,an affectionate term meaning 'the
smudger'. Note: check schedules and departure times as these change annually.
South Pelion
SOUTH TO TRIKERI
The southern part of the Pelion has a wide-open feel to it, with sparsely forested hills,
olive groves and lovely beaches. Before heading inland after Kala Nera, the road skirts
the little coastal fishing village of Afissos, winds up through to the attractive farming
community of Argalasti, and then forks - the left fork continues inland, the right goes to
the coastal resorts of Horto and Milina. From Milina the road branches southeast towards
Platanias and southwest to Trikeri.
There is an end-of-the-world feel about this part of the Pelion, especially as the road
from Milina to Trikeri becomes more and more desolate. Residents pride themselves on
their tradition as seafarers, fighters against the Turks in the War of Independence, and up-
holders of traditional customs and dress.
HORTO & MILINA ΧΟΡΤΟ & ΜΗΛΙΝΑ
Milina is the larger of these two coastal villages, and sees many package tourists. Both
are on a quiet part of the peninsula with pristine water and a few inviting pebble beaches.
Sights & Activities
Old Radio Museum
MUSEUM
