On the Trail of the Centaurs
According to Greek mythology, Pelion was the homeland of the mythical Centaurs, creatures that were half-human and half-horse. Here, heroes such as Achilles and Jason trained alongside the wise Chiron. Today, travellers can relive this ancient myth, connecting with a world untouched by time through the art of horsemanship.
Argalasti as a Starting Point
Our journey starts in Argalasti, a picturesque village nestled in southern Magnesia. The landscape features gentle hills and expansive olive groves, where ancient trees intermingle with cool, verdant streams lined with plane trees. The old, cobbled paths, once the sole road network, remain the perfect setting to experience the rhythm of horse riding, far from the noise of cars.
Journeys Between Two Seas
Starting from Argalasthi, two historic trails lead to Kalamos and Lefokastro. The vegetation is so dense that it stays cool even in July. However, horse riding truly comes alive when the trail meets the sea. On the Aegean side, riders can head towards the tranquil Paltsi or Potistika beaches, where towering cliffs rise above the sand. The sandy beach of Melani is also accessible via a dirt road tailor-made for a leisurely gallop.
On the Pagasetic Gulf side, the route to Marmaro reveals hidden coves with tranquil waters. The experience culminates in a tasty interlude at picturesque tavernas overlooking the water or a picnic in the shade of olive trees. As the sun sets and you return to Argolasti, your connection to the horse and nature will leave you with a profound sense of freedom, reminding you why this mountain was chosen as the abode of the most noble creatures of mythology.