Autumn and Winter in Arcadia: What to Do from October to March

Many visitors think of Greece as a summer destination, but the mountains of Arcadia are at their best from October to March. The forests turn gold, the stone villages light their fireplaces, chestnuts are roasted in the squares and – in good winters – there is snow on Mount Menalon, only a few hours from Athens. Here is why we love Arcadia in autumn and winter, and what to do.

Autumn colours and hiking weather

From October the chestnut, plane and oak trees change colour, while the fir forests stay deep green. Cooler temperatures make autumn one of the best seasons for walking. Hike a section of the Menalon Trail – for example the gentle Elati – Vytina section through fir and plane trees – or walk two sections with an overnight stay on our 2-day options.

Chestnut season

Autumn is chestnut time in Arcadia. Villages such as Kastanitsa, Kosmas and Ano Doliana celebrate the harvest with chestnut festivals, and you will find chestnuts in sweets and stews all winter. Read more about local food in our Arcadia food guide.

Cosy stone villages

Winter is the season for the mountain villages: stone guesthouses with fireplaces, tavernas serving slow-cooked dishes, and quiet lanes after the summer visitors have gone. Lagkadia, Dimitsana, Stemnitsa, Vytina and Elati are all lovely in the cold months – see our guide to the mountain villages of Arcadia.

A few of our partner hotels with that winter feeling:

• Xenonas Kaza and En Dimitsani in Dimitsana
• Vitina House Forest Resort and Chalet Elati near Vytina
• Maniatis Hotels & Resorts and Gileri Eco & Design Residences in the Lagkadia area

Snow on Mount Menalon

When the snow comes, the Mainalo Ski Centre at Ostrakina opens – one of the oldest ski centres in Greece (since 1965) and the closest to Athens. It sits at 1,550–1,770 m and has about 5.5 km of pistes for beginners to experts, with lifts, a snowboard park and snow activities. Vytina, Dimitsana, Levidi and Stemnitsa are all within easy reach. Snow depends on the year, so always check conditions before you go.

A relaxing winter break

Want hiking, good food and time to relax without planning everything yourself? Our 4 Days / 3 Nights – Nature, Trails & Relax in Arcadia combines walks on the Menalon Trail with village life and local food. For more activity, see Be Active in Arcadia.

Practical tips for winter

• Pack warm layers, a waterproof jacket and good shoes – the mountain villages are around 1,000 m high.
• After snowfall, some mountain roads may need snow chains. If you would rather not drive, use a private transfer.
• Hiking in winter: choose lower or forest sections, start early, and check the weather – our team can advise.
• Book weekends early: Greeks love winter escapes to Arcadia too.

Plan your winter escape

From Athens, the villages are about 3 hours away – see how to get from Athens to the Peloponnese. Tell us your dates and we will plan transfers, hotels and activities. Contact us – we reply within 24 hours.