Kaimaktsalan: A 5-Day Ski Adventure

We established that Greece isn’t just sun, souvlaki, and plate smashing!

Welcome to Kaimaktsalan, where the slopes are as epic as the myths, and the après-ski involves hearty Macedonian feasts instead of overpriced (mo)cocktails. At 8,136 feet (2,480 meters for metric folks), Kaimaktsalan is Greece’s highest ski resort and your new favorite winter playground. Strap in because this 5-day itinerary will take you from the slopes to steamy thermal springs and back—probably with a few snowball fights in between.

Day 1: Journey to the Top

Morning Departure: A Road Trip Worth the ☕️ or 🍵 
Start your day early; no ski adventure worth its salt begins without a groggy-eyed bus ride. The road from Athens or Thessaloniki to Kaimaktsalan is dotted with stops for coffee, snacks, and existential crisis as to why you didn’t pack an extra pair of gloves. After a few hours (depending on traffic and how often your group insists on bathroom breaks), you’ll arrive in the gorgeous village of Loutraki Aridaias, with its stunning waterfall and cold plunge people - I am looking at you, it’s worth trying it out! 😉 

Now for the fans of cozy, warm waters and baby skin type. Here’s where the magic starts: the famous Loutra Pozar. These thermal springs bubble up at a constant 98.6°F—essentially body temperature, because nature’s thoughtful like that—head straight to the pools after a quick check-in at your charming mountain hotel. Nothing screams “I’m a sophisticated adult” quite like soaking in warm, mineral-rich waters surrounded by snow-covered peaks.

Dinner & Local Hospitality
Your first night includes a hearty Macedonian feast. Think slow-cooked meats, local cheeses, and enough wine to make you forget how sore you will be tomorrow.

Day 2: Hit the Slopes Like Zeus Himself

Morning: Ski, Snowboard, or Spectate
Rise and shine, early birds! It’s time to head to the Kaimaktsalan Ski Center. This ski resort is like Greece’s hidden gem—except it’s 8,136 feet high and covered in snow. Whether you’re a seasoned skier or mainly use skis for Instagram photos, there’s something for everyone here. The 10 slopes range from gentle blues to red runs that’ll make your thighs question your life choices.

If skiing isn’t your thing, grab a hot mountain tea (tsai tou vounou, because everything sounds fancier in Greek) and watch others face-plant on the bunny slope. It’s surprisingly satisfying.

Lunch with a View
Grab lunch at the resort’s chalet, where you can gaze out over the Thessaloniki Plain and, on a clear day, even spot Mount Olympus. Yes, that Olympus—the one where gods used to hang out. No pressure.

Afternoon: Explore the Village of Palaios Agios Athanasios
After your snowy escapades, it’s time to head to the picturesque village of Palaios Agios Athanasios, also known as “the Stone Village” because, well, everything is stone. It’s charming, Instagrammable, and the kind of place where even the air smells rustic. Wander through its cobblestone streets, admire the traditional Macedonian architecture, and indulge in a rakomelo (warm raki with honey) because you’ve earned it.

Day 3: Snow, Soak, Repeat

Morning: Ski Like No One’s Watching
Back to the slopes! Today’s mission: tackle a new run or at least figure out how to get off the lift gracefully. Advanced skiers can challenge themselves on the higher-altitude runs, while beginners might consider a lesson or two.

Not into skiing? No problem. Rent a snowmobile or strap on some snowshoes for a trek through the powdery wilderness. Snowball fights are optional but highly encouraged.

Evening: Stargazing and Storytelling
Back at the hotel, settle in for a night of stargazing. The clear skies above Kaimaktsalan are perfect for spotting constellations; if you’re lucky, you might catch a shooting star. Or maybe that’s just a plane—you’ve had much wine by now. 🍷 

Day 4: Ancient Wonders and Waterfalls

Morning: A Journey in Edessa - Ancient Ruins, Byzantine City, and Waterfalls
Today, take a break from skiing to explore the nearby town of Edessa, famous for its stunning waterfalls. Walk along the pathways to witness cascading water crashing into emerald pools below. While there, visit the Water Museum for a quick history lesson on why Edessa is nicknamed the “City of Water.” Spoiler: it involves a lot of water.

Afternoon: Wine Tasting in Amyntaio
A short drive from Edessa brings you to the wine region of Amyntaio, where the grape of choice is Xinomavro—a bold red that’s Greece’s answer to Pinot Noir. Visit a local vineyard for a tasting session that includes five wine varieties. Warning: You’ll leave tipsy with a newfound appreciation for the phrase “terroir.”

Evening: Feast Like a Macedonian Monarch
Back in Palaios Agios Athanasios, wrap up the day with another round of feasting. Try the kontosouvli (giant skewered meat) or the famous Florina peppers stuffed with cheese. Calories don’t count when you’re at high altitude!

Day 5: One Last Adventure

Morning: The Prophet Elias Chapel 🚶 🥾 
For your final day, take a short hike up to the Prophet Elias Chapel, perched at the peak of Mount Kaimaktsalan. Built from materials from WWI battles, the chapel is both a historical monument and a spiritual retreat. The views from here are nothing short of divine, and it’s the perfect way to reflect on the past few days of adventure.

Afternoon: Back to Reality
Sadly, all good things must come to an end. After a leisurely brunch, it’s time to pack up and head back. The ride home will be quieter—partly because everyone’s napping, partly because you’re too busy planning your next trip back.

Final Thoughts

Kaimaktsalan isn’t just a ski trip; it’s a winter wonderland with a Macedonian twist. From its world-class slopes to charming villages and thermal springs, this mountain has everything you need for the perfect snowy escape. So grab your skis (or sense of adventure) and discover why Greece isn’t just for summer vacations. Don’t forget to pack extra socks—you’ll thank us later. 🧦 

Happy Travels! 🗺️