The lake is directly linked to the character, history and development of Kastoria. Hotel website. There are also twice-weekly services between Ioannina and Kastoria. Fantastic view of the lake. Hopeful researchers circulate among the age-old buildings, patiently looking at walls, hoping to scrape the plaster and find a huge mural underneath. • 19km from Kastoria, Most people say that from Sidirochori you have the best views of Kastoria and the lake. It was a settled community approximately since the 11th century A.D. to the 1940’s. Located 3 km from central Kastoria Town, Calma Hotel & Spa features a spa centre with sauna and Turkish bath, as well as a seasonal swimming pool. Hi Yvette, it’s unfortunate that you have to pick fault with free travel guides. Smoked country sausages, hunted game, and Fasolia Gigantes are among the local favourite foods to try while in town. There are more than 60 old Byzantine churches scattered throughout Kastoria. Why did you overlook the Jewish community of Kastoria? Today, this industry is in decline, though you will still see numerous fur stores scattered around the city. Nautical Hall. 145 reviews. Heading south on Νίκης street, the atmosphere becomes much calmer. My name is Melissa and I’m a full time Travel Blogger from the UK . Ask your Waiter for recommendations on which are the best to try. Kastoria is far from a popular travel destination. Apart from the view, in the “Stous Kalous Dris” restaurant located in the Loggas hotel, you will be able to sample traditional dishes. Folklore, Costumes, Museum of the … Follow the cobbled waterfront promenade and revel in the views. Last stop is the lake Orestiada, which is one of the most beautiful in the Balkans, something worth seeing. To Steki Tis Pareas is a charming restaurant set on the banks of Orestiada Lake. Cobblestone streets, traditional atmosphere and magnificent architecture, reminder of the extraordinary development Kastoria experienced during the 17th and 18th centuries. Limneon Resort & Spa is particularly well regarded, but you will find many facilities in the area to suit all budgets. #3 Best Value of 45 places to stay in Kastoria. An adorable little cafe-bakery tucked beautifully in a small alley in the heart of Kastoria’s old town district (Doltso). We have suggestions. +30 24670.72.424). If you are travelling through Northern Greece, you may want to consider spending a day or two enjoying the nature of this beautiful place. Kastorian furs travelled around the world, and the fur traders became rich, building the mansions that now lend grace and charm to the city. For instance, it would be very tricky to get to Gavros or the Archos Bear Sanctuary without your own car. Bar/Lounge. It also operates an online store that delivers throughout Greece: www.amaltheia-kast.gr. This comes at no extra cost to you. You can stroll down the narrow cobblestone streets of the town’s picturesque old quarter, Sopotos, much of which is built under the shadow of the rocks, and enjoy beautiful Macedonian traditional architecture. Situated in kastoria old town surrounded by amazing stone paved alleys and traditional houses. They were once the elegant homes of those who made their fortunes as furriers. Where: 4th Klm National Road Kastoria, 52057. The hotel is set just a few yards away from Lake Orestiada and the Kastoria Folklore Museum. Kastoria - Accommodation, sightseeing and activities. Orologopoulos Mansion Luxury Hotel is housed in a mansion the construction of which dates back to the 19th century. Browse the latest rates and availability here. Accommodation options in Kastoria are limited. You will learn for the everyday life of the people of Kastoria visiting the Folklore museum. The fare is classic Greek –... Read More. We will visit the Byzantine Museum and have the time to walk in the old town and by the lake. Sometimes, lost bears have even found their way into Kastoria! This site is widely regarded as being one of the most impressive, as well as the oldest monastery in Western Macedonia. Arcturos is a local charity that exists to protect the bears of Northern Greece. Traditionally built of stone and wood, Hotel Doltso is conveniently located in the old town of Kastoria, just 50 metres from the lake. Its ambient lighting, lake views, and rembetika music combine to form one of the most pleasant dining environments in the city. Kastoria quickly became renowned across Greece – and the world, for its involvement in the fur industry. The best way to reach it, if you are not renting a car, is to take a KTEL bus. Although, residents often reported problematic encounters with bears and snakes. The history of fur in Kastoria goes back to the 16th century. When you arrive, embark on a self-guided walking tour of the city’s unique neighbourhoods. The caves were not discovered until the 1940s and only opened as a tourist attraction in recent years. Show on Map. Old Town is set inside a scenic neoclassical mansion that overlooks the waters of Lake Orestiada. Unique old town atmosphere in the Doltso district, the architecture of the traditional mansions and houses, customs and traditions. .© 2021 GREECE IS, KATHIMERINES EKDOSEIS SA, Powered by: Relevance | Developed by: Stonewave, Incredible Destination: What to See and Do in Halkidiki, Skiing in Greece: The Country’s Best Ski Resorts, The American Farm School: 21st-Century Farming in Thessaloniki, The Stunning Ancient Roman Villa Discovered in Amyntaio. The unspoiled nature, the peaceful waters of the lake, the majestic mountains, the old mansions, the tile-roofed houses, as well as the superb Byzantine churches create a magical backdrop! Tickets must be purchased from the station’s ticket office prior to boarding. The city encircles the tranquil Lake Orestiada, and the scenic walking paths that run parallel to the lake are the perfect place for a morning stroll. Kastorian furs travelled around the world, and the fur traders became … Considering its history and natural beauty, it seems surprising almost that no-one has really heard about Kastoria. Various civilisations and cultures have resided here over the centuries, leaving their mark on the city and its architecture. Nobody is entirely sure as to why it was abandoned. Show Prices. Cafe, Healthy £ “A delightful cafe-bakery in the old town...” “Goooooood!” 3. Kastoria is a pretty and picturesque town in western Macedonia that perhaps doesn’t receive as many international visitors as it deserves. Free parking. A delightful cafe-bakery in the old town district. Its rooms demonstrate how the upper classes lived in Kastoria. Small … Wonderful snacks, fresh baked goods, great variety of drinks and most importantly very welcoming and friendly owners. Renting a car in Greece is not as intimidating as it may sound. Many others take to boats to fish on the lake. Show Prices . Very nice cafes and restaurants nearby, close to the lake. Lina Kapetaniou | Of equal interest is the Folklore Museum of Kastoria. The cold is bitter, the streets are confusing and even the lake doesn’t help you navigate. You can check the latest timetables and fares at the KTEL Kastorias website here. The nightlife scene in Kastoria is sparse. T. Seafood in Kastoria. Anglers sit on the shores with fishing rods, waiting for hours for something to bite. The museum includes models of old town houses, Byzantine churches, the monasteries of the surrounding area, the lakeside settlement at Dispilio, a model of the entire city and copies of the vitraux, the colourful stained glass that adorned the old town houses in Kastoria. It's beautifully situated on Lake Orestiada, with a pretty old town covering a high peninsula protruding into the glassy waters. Along with religious and historical tourists, the city also receives visitors who come for something else: fur. It is possible to take a boat tour across Lake Orestiada, and admire the scenery of the Kastoria municipality from the water. Greek in Kastoria. Pushing the Boundaries of Solo Female Travel. Date of stay: August 2016. Ta Kymata. It borders with the other three units of the region, Florina, Grevena, Kozani but also with the one of Ioannina, as well as with Albania, on the west side. From Thessaloniki the distance is 190 km, via Egnatia Odos. Free Wifi. The best way to access the Dragon’s Lair, and to explore the woodlands that surround it, is to rent a bicycle. • 31km from Kastoria. Sampling local delicacies is as much a highlight of a Greece travel itinerary as seeing the sights. Wash it all down with a strong class of ouzo or tsipouro as you watch the local fishermen push their boats out into the lake. There are currently no rail links to Kastoria. The #1 Best Value of 45 places to stay in Kastoria. For wonderful traditional food and service, head to Old Town on Orestiados 51. Despite that fact, it has a very laid back, small-town ambiance about it. Elegantly furnished and decorated with earth tones, the accommodation boasts free Wi-Fi and a garden-view balcony. Entire streets are abandoned in the town centre of Kastoria. Hotel where Extra Health & Safety Measures Have Been Taken. Free Wifi. Palia Poli 'Old Town' is a lovely restaurant inside a waterfront mansion opening onto a spacious courtyard, where you can spend hours over your food and wine as the frogs sing in the nearby lake. #2 Best Value of 45 places to stay in Kastoria. Kyknos De Luxe Rooms & Suites Hotel. Buses between Thessaloniki and Kastoria run daily. Click here for the latest prices and availability. As you glance at the city map, you will notice that there are churches on practically every street. It offers elegant accommodations with free WiFi. Everything is fairly priced and the establishment is pristine.... Would highly recommend it to anyone … Nafplio. Today, the market has shrunk considerably, although there are still shops selling fur garments and visitors seeking to buy them. Show Prices . The regional unit of Kastoria is located at the western end of West Macedonia. Later, the trade was introduced to Northern Greece. Geia sou! The history of fur in Kastoria goes back to the 16th century. Check the precise location of hotels on the map before booking. A neew luxury hootel just openned in the heeart of Kastoria old town! Guesthouse Filoxenia is a great budget choice for your Kastoria trip. The hotel sits 2km outside of town, where you can truly enjoy the peace and tranquility of Epirus. Sign Up for Premium Content, Special Offers & More. Kastoria is a city steeped in history. One major plus of travelling here is having churches, nature walks, and historical sites practically all to yourself. Quaint pastel-coloured houses and stores cascade down the hilltops, making Kastoria feel like a Hellenic version of the Amalfi Coast – sans tourists. #3 Best Value of 45 places to stay in Kastoria. 113 reviews Open Now. These photos make it look like something off of a postcard! Kastoria has long been famous for its furs and the trade remains a significant draw, particularly for affluent Russian tourists. If you make a purchase through some of the links enclosed here, I may obtain a small amount of commission. THE 10 BEST Kastoria Hotels. Free Wifi. This post was originally published on the blog... Editor’s note: The following has been taken from... why athens is becoming a magnet for young expats, not the new berlin: curator katerina gregos on the greek art landscape, how the 1821 greek revolution changed the world, architect yorgos tzirtzilakis: the emst, odysseus, and the clown, piraeus for beginners: where to go in the great port of athens. Trip type: Traveled as a couple. Kastoria had one of the highest per capita incomes, not only in Greece but in the world. Taking safety measures. Traditionally built of stone and wood, Hotel Doltso is conveniently located in the old town of Kastoria, just 50 metres from the lake. With that said, large parts of the city have been abandoned and are very run down. Eternal landmarks, those beautiful mansions now house hotels, unique restaurants and excellent museums. Northern Greece is particularly special during the Fall and Winter months. Bouquillon and BACCARA are popular haunts among locals for when they want an evening tipple or two. Sweat it out in a hammam (traditional, Ottoman-era sauna), then treat yourself to an indulgent massage and a facial – all while overlooking Lake Orestiada. In Kastoria, you can see ruined Ottoman mosques and marketplaces, sitting beside colourful Ottoman houses and grand Byzantine homes. Luxury Hotel. Chloe Luxury Hotel. Once upon a time, Kastoria was an important furrier city, particularly during the Byzantine era. It is also integrated into the “Natura 2000” network. Free parking. The trade peaked in the 1970s when around 6,000 small and large companies operated in the region employing about 15,000 workers. Doltso Luxury Hotel. Many Greeks come to Kastoria for the weekend to enjoy a slice of R&R at the luxurious spas that sit on the outskirts of town. An retro (80s styling) 65 cm3 apartment, with wonderful view of the old town of Kastoria and at Kastorias lake Orestiada. Don’t hesitate to reach out to me via the comments below. Start your walk at the Northern edge of Orestiada Lake, near the monument to the Macedonian struggle. A very beautiful village with guesthouses and taverns. If you have your own transport, you might want to consider paying a visit to the abandoned ghost village of Gavros. Ouzeri Ta Kimata has been delighting Kastoria residents since it opened way back in 1953. Akropolis Hotel, recently renovated, is located in the center of Kastoria city.The lake of Kastoria is the most precious treasure of the town. Many of these churches are decorated with beautiful, vibrant frescoes that depict various scenes from the Orthodox faith. 124 reviews Open Now. Today, this pretty modern town of 40,000 inhabitants, located on a small peninsula, offers a picturesque and varied aspect, with the heritage of its past, its countless traditional houses, the archontika, and its numerous Byzantine churches (the town has more than 70). She writes for numerous high profile travel publications across the globe - including Forbes Travel Guide, Matador Network, The Times of Israel and The Huffington Post. Within the caves, there are seven underground lakes, and dramatic cavernous rooms filled with various types of stalagmites and stalactites. This “living museum” is housed in the former residence of the noble Nerandzis-Aïvazis family. Show Prices. The city’s wealth of monuments has not yet been assessed in its entirety. Rooms are cozy, homely, and clean, and start from just $35 per night including breakfast. Very friendly and helpful but at the same time very professional. Looking to expand your search outside of Kastoria? Other things to note A non … Mushrooms, pies, legumes, jams, pasta – all the goodness of local products in an elegant space that also features a lounge to relax in. This is evident in the fact that there are few hotel options in town. 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