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If you’re looking for ‘undiscovered Greece’, you’ll be hard-pressed to find a better destination than Western Macedonia. Just two hours from colourful, chaotic Thessaloniki, the region is crammed full of lush landscapes, postcard-perfect lakeside towns and dramatic mountains. It’s a popular winter destination, but the region’s mostly mild temperatures make it a perfect year-round destination for those who aren’t looking for scorching sunshine.
To help make the most of your Greek getaway you can book your car in advance with Enjoy Travel!
Guide of Western Macedonia
Geography
Western Macedonia is situated in north-western Greece. It borders Central Macedonia to the east, Thessaly in the south, Epirus in the west and the Republic of North Macedonia and Albania in the north. The region stretches across roughly 3,649 square miles, but it’s one of the least densely populated regions in the country.
Around 82% of Central Macedonia is mountainous and semi-mountainous. It is the only region in Greece without a coastline, though there are plenty of lakes, rivers and mountains to make up for it. For this reason, the region is a popular wintertime destination and is beloved for its ski scene.
Climate in Western Macedonia
Western Macedonia is one of the coldest regions in Greece thanks to its mostly mountainous terrain. Average daily temperatures rarely exceed 21°C. Those looking for a spot of sunshine should travel here during the summertime, from June to September. The coldest month to visit Western Macedonia is January, when temperatures average 2°C and frequently drop to -1°C.
Culture
People have lived in Western Macedonia since the Neolithic period. In fact, in Servia you can find the remains of one of the country’s most important Neolithic settlements. King Philip II incorporated the area into the Kingdom of Macedonia in the 3rd Century BC, during which time the kingdoms of Aeani, Eordaea and Orsetida flourished.
The region was later conquered by the Romans, and then became part of the Byzantium Empire. In the 14th century, the Ottoman Turks conquered the region and the area continued to thrive, but by the 19th century, revolution was in the air. Western Macedonia played an active role in the wars of independence and the Macedonian fight against the Bulgarians, becoming part of the new Greek nation in 1912.
Things To Do in Western Macedonia
Visit the fairytale village of Nymphaio
Nestled between a mountain and a thick forest, Nymphaio looks like it’s been plucked straight out of a fairytale. It frequently ranks as one of the most beautiful villages in Europe thanks to its elegant stone mansions, cobbled streets and unique architecture. Apart from being picture-perfect, there’s a good deal to do here too. Top of your list should be the Goldsmith, Folklore and History Museum, which is packed full of local furniture, jewellery and costumes.
Explore the ‘land of lakes’
Florina is Greece’s northwesternmost city. Surrounded by six magnificent lakes, the city is renowned for its spectacular architecture and postcard-perfect views. Popular sights include the Archaeological Museum, the Art Gallery, the House of Tegos Sapountzis and the House of Peios. Don’t pass up the opportunity to sample some of the city’s local specialities, like red peppers, mountain tea and spoon sweets.
See bears at Arktouros Bear Sanctuary
The Arcturos Bear Sanctuary is home to rescued orphan brown bear clubs, injured bears and bears saved from the dancing bear trade from Greece and the wider regions of the Balkans. Most rescued bears stay at the sanctuary for their whole lives in a large, natural forest enclosure.
Stroll around Kastoria’s promenade
Kastoria is a lakeside jewel, nestled between Lake Orsetiada and Grammos and the Vitsi mountains. Like Florina, Kastoria is packed full of aristocratic lakeside mansions, towering oak trees and dozens of Byzantine churches. For the best views, take a leisurely stroll or cycle along the 14 km path that circumvents the perimeter of Kastoria town and the peninsular.
Hit the slopes
Western Macedonia is home to a handful of popular ski resorts, including Kaimaktsalan, Vaslilitsa, Pisoderi, Tria Pente Pigadia and Naoussa.
Eating Out in Western Macedonia
Western Macedonia is renowned for the quality of its produce, from black truffles to famous Florina red peppers. The region has more recently become a hotspot for winemakers too, and many of the country’s finest wines are made here. You can easily sample these on the tables of most tavernas, or at wineries dotted around the region.
Many of the region’s most popular dishes have been handed down for generations. Lamb, port and goat are popular and feature on most menus. Kozani and Kastoria are famous for their Chirino me selino (tender pork cooked with celery) and lamb cooked with sweet quince. Tyrokafteri (a spicy cheese) is only found in Macedonia and is a must-try too.
There are some excellent restaurants and tavernas to choose from, but for something a little special try Agios Ahilios Taverna in the Prespa National Park. Sat on the banks of the Prepa Lake, this family-run restaurant serves farm-fresh dishes made with vegetables from the family’s gardens and fish straight from the lake. Or, for something a little different, try Kontosoros in Florina. This sophisticated spot serves up traditional Macedonian dishes like sout makalo (meatballs in stew) with a modern spin.
Transport
Airport
There are two national airports in Western Macedonia: Kozani National Airport (KZI) and Kastorias National Airport (KSO). Both airports are served by domestic flights from Athens, usually operated by Sky Express.
Those travelling from international destinations might find it easier to travel to Thessaloniki (SKG), the third-largest airport in the country. The airport is served by most international airlines, including Air France, British Airways, easyJet, Lufthansa and WizzAir, and there are direct flights to most European cities. Western Macedonia is less than a two-hour drive from Thessaloniki and there are plenty of sights to stop at along the way.
Getting around Western Macedonia
Bus is the main mode of public transportation in Western Macedonia. Few towns have railway stations and those that do only operate an infrequent service. Buses are cheap and generally reliable, operated by KTEL Macedonia. They connect most major towns, though many of the region’s most impressive landmarks can only be reached by car.
If you’re looking to explore the region beyond the big towns, we recommend hiring a car. Driving will give you more flexibility and is cheaper than arranging private transport. You can easily pick up your hire car from Thessaloniki Airport too.