Athens, Greece

Arachova: A Charming Mountain Escape from Athens

Nestled in the embrace of Mount Parnassus, Arachova offers a refreshing alternative to the typical tourist destinations of Santorini and Mykonos.

Shaun Melady
Sustainable Cities
Published in
3 min readJan 31, 2024

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Arachova, Greece — Photo by: Shaun Melady

This charming mountain village boasts stunning scenery, authentic local culture, and a unique atmosphere that sets it apart from the crowds.

When you arrive, you’ll be greeted by crisp mountain air and the picturesque sight of quaint stone houses adorned with vibrant blooms lining the winding streets. Unlike souvenir shops peddling mass-produced goods, Arachova’s stores brim with unique locally crafted treasures. Engaging with friendly vendors becomes an opportunity to discover hidden gems and learn about the local artisanship.

Instead of following a rigid itinerary, allow yourself to get lost in the charming maze of streets. Each twist and turn reveals hidden delights — a cafe serving melt-in-your-mouth baklava, a sun-drenched square buzzing with lively conversation, or an ancient church whispering tales of its storied past. Time seems to slow down here, inviting you to savor each moment like a sip of the local honey wine, rich and smooth with the essence of the mountains.

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Shaun Melady
Sustainable Cities

Journalist & content creator featured in top pubs. Actor, model & writer. Follow on social @ShaunMelady.