Greece’s ski resorts are thriving, drawing domestic winter sports enthusiasts as well as attracting global tourists who seek unique mountain experiences. From Kalavryta to Parnassos, Seli, and Metsovo, these destinations are setting new benchmarks for sustainable and inclusive tourism.
Ski resorts across Greece are reporting record-breaking visitor numbers, while accommodations in nearby areas are reaching full capacity. Simultaneously, these ski resorts are modernizing and expanding their offerings to promote year-round mountain tourism, integrating activities designed to attract visitors in all seasons.
The Kalavryta Ski Resort is experiencing unprecedented success, with over 15,000 visitors daily in its first season following extensive infrastructure upgrades. According to the Alexis Agrios, Director of the Kalavryta Ski Resort, these improvements, funded through an EU structural fund exceeding €22 million, mark a significant milestone.
“Last year was difficult due to poor weather conditions. Moving forward, we plan to invest in artificial snow systems to ensure reliability,” Agrios said.
At Parnassos, Greece’s largest ski resort, international tourists, including many from China, have become a significant part of the visitor demographic. “Visitors often combine skiing with cultural excursions to Delphi,” explained Antonis Tourkohoritis, the resort’s director. The resort attracts over 5,500 visitors daily and is poised for a record-breaking season.
At Seli, Greece’s second-largest ski resort, where a recent mishap involving a Greek snowboarder drew the media spotlight, but fortunately ended positively, visitor numbers reached up to 5,000 daily. The resort began operations on December 19 and has seen strong attendance, bolstered by its proximity to Thessaloniki, just 50 minutes away.
In Metsovo, the Anilio Ski Resort is redefining itself as a year-round destination. Open since early December, it welcomes over 2,500 daily visitors and boasts six modern lifts.
Basilis Tzoumakas, the resort’s manager, highlighted its role in boosting the local economy: “Ski resorts are key to supporting restaurants, hotels, and equipment shops. Our focus is on making the resort a year-round attraction. For instance, last summer’s Anilio Park Festival achieved 100% occupancy in the surrounding area’s accommodations for half of August.”
