Mountain hotels for children: The best options in Greece

Greece's mountain destinations are now a popular choice for families looking to escape the beach routine and give their children a different holiday experience. The cool mountain climate, the forests of fir and beech trees, the rivers and traditional stone neighbourhoods create a setting that children remember for years, vastly different from conventional seaside holidays.

Choosing a mountain hotel for children goes beyond just the beauty of the landscape. Attention must be paid to practical matters such as room heating, the presence of a playground or indoor pool, restaurant menus tailored for young ages, and proximity to activities like horse riding, mountain biking, or simple walks on easy trails. Zagorochoria, Arachova, Karpenisi, Metsovo, Pelion, Elati and Pertouli, Kalavryta, and Parnassos cover the full spectrum of these needs, each with its own distinct character.

In this guide, we have compiled accommodations that have proven to work well for children, whether they are infants or school-aged kids who want to play in the snow or see farm animals up close. We focused on amenities such as indoor pools, courtyards with space for play, family rooms with extra beds, and restaurants that make life easier for parents with picky eaters.

Planning a mountain family getaway also has its pitfalls. Seasonality plays a role, as winter brings cold and potential snow, which excites children but requires suitable clothing and careful travel, while autumn and spring offer milder conditions, ideal for younger children. Below, we analyse all the criteria, present 14 accommodations, and answer the most common questions parents ask before booking their mountain holidays.

The following list is not random. We have selected accommodations in eight different destinations so that every family can find an option that suits their distance from their city, available time, and budget, without compromising on the safety and comfort of young guests.

Accommodation options at a glance

Links lead to each accommodation's page on Booking.com. Please check family room availability, infant and child policies, and any additional charges for extra beds before proceeding with your booking.

1. Aristi Mountain Resort & Villas (Zagorochoria)

This resort in Aristi combines stone architecture with comfortable common areas where children can move freely. Its proximity to Aristi bridge and the Vikos Gorge offers opportunities for gentle walks with the whole family. It features rooms with the option of an additional bed for children.

• Average cost: 140-220 euros per night depending on the period

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2. Papigo Villas Papigkon (Zagorochoria)

In Papigo, at the foot of Mount Tymfi, these traditional villas offer privacy for each family, with separate space and a fireplace that children often find to be the most exciting detail of their stay. The courtyard allows for quiet play away from the road.

• Average cost: 130-200 euros per night depending on the period

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3. Alexander Hotel Arachova (Arachova)

In the heart of Arachova, this hotel is close to shops and tavernas, which is practical when travelling with children and wanting to avoid long trips for meals. Family-type rooms offer ample space for luggage and equipment for small children.

• Average cost: 100-170 euros per night depending on the period

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4. Santa Marina Arachova Resort & Spa (Arachova)

This resort stands out for its large indoor pool, ideal for times when the mountain weather doesn't permit outdoor activities. The staff are accustomed to families with children of all ages and it features spacious rooms with views of Parnassos.

• Average cost: 150-240 euros per night depending on the period

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5. Anesis Hotel (Karpenisi)

A few minutes from Karpenisi town, Anesis offers comfortable rooms with a fireplace, which children particularly enjoy on cold winter evenings. Its location facilitates access to Koryschades and Megalo Chorio for family excursions.

• Average cost: 90-150 euros per night depending on the period

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6. Anemolia Country Club Hotel & Spa (Karpenisi)

With an indoor pool and large communal areas, this hotel operates like a small village in the forest, giving children a sense of freedom without needing to leave the accommodation premises. It also has a restaurant with simpler options for younger children.

• Average cost: 120-190 euros per night depending on the period

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7. Archontiko Metsovou Luxury Boutique Hotel (Metsovo)

In picturesque Metsovo, this mansion maintains its traditional Epirus style with wooden ceilings and stone, impressing children from the very first moment. The main square and shops with local products are just a few minutes' walk away.

• Average cost: 110-180 euros per night depending on the period

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8. La Munte Metsovo (Metsovo)

This is a welcoming accommodation with rooms offering sufficient space for families with one or two children. The quiet location in Metsovo allows for evening strolls without traffic, which is practical when travelling with small children.

• Average cost: 95-150 euros per night depending on the period

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9. Portaria Hotel & Spa (Pelion)

In Portaria, this hotel features an indoor pool and spaces suitable for family stays all year round. Its proximity to Makrinitsa and Volos allows for combining mountain and sea within the same excursion.

• Average cost: 130-200 euros per night depending on the period

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10. Makrinitsa Village (Pelion)

In Makrinitsa, the renowned 'Balcony of Pelion', this accommodation offers apartments with a fireplace and views of the Pagasetic Gulf. The village's cobblestone streets are safe for walks with children and are full of fountains that they love.

• Average cost: 100-160 euros per night depending on the period

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11. Kastanies Traditional Hotel (Pertouli)

Near the Pertouli ski resort, this accommodation is a popular choice for families wanting their child to see snow up close. The rooms are warm and functional, with direct access to breakfast areas that also cater to the needs of small children.

• Average cost: 100-170 euros per night depending on the period

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12. Aroanides Kalavryta (Kalavryta)

Near Kalavryta, this hotel has comfortable family rooms and is a short distance from the Odontotos rack railway, an experience that delights almost every child. Breakfast includes local products suitable for the youngest family members.

• Average cost: 95-155 euros per night depending on the period

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13. Filoxenia Kalavryta (Kalavryta)

This accommodation combines traditional aesthetics with functional rooms that easily accommodate an extra bed for a child. Its central location in Kalavryta facilitates daily commutes without a car.

• Average cost: 90-140 euros per night depending on the period

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14. Mountain Chalet Livadi (Parnassos)

In Livadi, Parnassos, this chalet is aimed at families who want direct access to the ski slopes. The space features a fireplace and kitchen, useful elements when travelling with small children and wanting flexibility with meals.

• Average cost: 110-175 euros per night depending on the period

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Popular areas for family holidays in the mountains

Each destination has its own character and suits a different type of family. Zagorochoria appeals to those seeking nature and quiet villages, while Arachova and Parnassos suit families who want to combine skiing with nightlife and restaurants. Karpenisi and Evrytania offer a balance between nature and infrastructure, while Metsovo and Pindos have a strong traditional element.

Pelion stands out because it allows for a combination of mountain and sea within the same day, something rare for a Greek destination. Elati and Pertouli in Trikala are among the most accessible family destinations for winter getaways with small children, while Kalavryta offers the unique experience of the Odontotos rack railway, an attraction loved by all ages.

Criteria for choosing a mountain hotel with children

Before booking accommodation, it's worth checking specific points that make a difference in a family's daily life.

• Presence of an indoor pool or play area for bad weather days
• Rooms with the option of an extra bed or a family suite
• Reliable heating, especially during winter months
• Distance from a main road or cliff, for the safety of small children
• Restaurant menu with simple options suitable for children
• Cancellation policy, especially if the trip depends on the weather

What you need to know for holidays with children in the Greek mountains

Access to most mountain destinations is easy by car, with Zagorochoria approximately 470 km from Athens and 65 km from Ioannina, while Arachova is just 150 km from Athens, making it ideal for a short weekend with children. Karpenisi is about 300 km from Athens, while Metsovo is located at an altitude of approximately 1,150 metres, which means lower temperatures even in summer.

Seasonality largely determines the experience. The months of December to March bring snow to most mountain villages, which excites children but requires suitable equipment, chains for the car, and careful driving. Spring, from April to June, offers a mild climate and blooming nature, ideal for younger children who cannot tolerate the cold. In autumn, especially October, the forests of Pindos and Pelion change colours, creating impressive scenes even for school-aged children.

Several mountain villages offer organised activities suitable for families, such as the Kalavryta-Diakopto Odontotos rack railway, easy hiking trails in Zagorochoria, gentle horse riding routes in Pelion, and small ski resorts in Pertouli and Parnassos with special slopes for beginners and children. Many of these villages have cobbled streets with limited car traffic, which makes it easier for parents when children want to walk a few metres ahead on their own.

Local gastronomy in most of these destinations includes simple and familiar dishes, such as pies, grilled meat, and pasta, which makes it easier for parents with picky eaters. Most tavernas in villages like Papigo, Arachova, or Portaria are used to families and offer children's portions or the option of sharing dishes.

Finally, it's worth noting that in most mountain villages, mobile phone service and internet generally work normally now, which is useful for families who want access to maps, weather, or communication. However, in more remote areas, such as some villages in Zagoria or areas around Proussos, the signal might be weaker, so it's a good idea to download offline maps beforehand.

Cost and planning

Accommodation prices in mountain resorts for children typically range from 90 to 240 euros per night, depending on the season, accommodation category, and amenities. Winter weekends, especially those coinciding with school holidays, see prices rise significantly, while weekdays outside holidays offer better rates. Booking at least six to eight weeks in advance is recommended for periods such as Christmas, New Year's, or Carnival, when demand is high in destinations like Arachova and Zagorochoria.

It's wise to budget extra for meals outside the accommodation, tickets to attractions like the Odontotos rack railway, and potential ski equipment if you plan activities at a ski resort. Many accommodations offer half-board packages, which simplifies planning when travelling with children and not wanting to search for a restaurant every evening.

Booking pitfalls to avoid

A common mistake is booking a room without clarifying the child policy, as some accommodations charge separately for an extra bed or have an age limit for free stays. Another frequent pitfall is booking without checking the distance from the village centre, which in mountainous areas with uphill roads can be tiring with small children.

It's also advisable to pay attention to the cancellation policy, especially in winter when weather conditions can affect travel. If possible, choose rooms with free cancellation up to a few days before arrival. Finally, check if the accommodation has heating in all areas and not just the rooms, as some traditional buildings might have cold communal corridors.

Practical tips for mountain holidays with children

• Pack warm clothes in layers, even if you are travelling in spring or autumn
• Check the weather and road conditions before departure
• Book a room with a fireplace or stove if travelling in winter with small children
• Plan at least one gentle activity per day, without an overly packed schedule
• Ask the accommodation about available baby equipment, such as a cot or high chair
• Carry a basic first-aid kit, as pharmacies in small villages might be far away

Related hotel guides

• Where to stay in Zagorochoria, Aristi, Papigo, Kipi & Central Zagori
• Where to stay in Arachova: Centre, Livadi, Parnassos and Delphi
• Where to stay in Metsovo, Accommodation Guide for Every Season
• Where to stay in Pelion: Portaria, Makrinitsa, Vyzitsa and eastern villages
• Where to stay in Kalavryta, Centre, Kastria & Surrounding Villages
• Hotels in Elati Trikalon: Accommodation Guide for Pertouli

Frequently Asked Questions

When is the best time for mountain holidays with children?

Winter is ideal for children who want to see snow, but spring and autumn offer milder conditions, especially for younger ages. The choice depends on the activities you wish to undertake.

Are snow chains needed for the car in winter?

On many mountain routes, especially towards Zagorochoria, Metsovo, or Parnassos, chains are essential when there is snow or ice. It's advisable to have them with you even if you don't end up needing them.

Do most hotels provide baby equipment?

Several accommodations offer a cot or high chair upon request, but not all. It's best to contact them directly before booking to confirm availability.

Which destination is best suited for families with very young children?

Pelion and Arachova offer short distances within the area and more dining options, which is practical with infants or toddlers. Zagorochoria is better suited for school-aged children who can handle walking.

Are there organised activities for children at ski resorts?

In Pertouli and Parnassos, ski schools operate with lessons for children, as well as special low-difficulty slopes. It's advisable to book lessons in advance during peak seasons.

How many days are enough for a family mountain getaway?

Three to four days are sufficient to enjoy the destination without fatigue, especially if you combine relaxation at the accommodation with one or two excursions to nearby villages.

Should I book early for Christmas and Carnival?

Yes, these periods are among the most popular in destinations like Arachova, Zagorochoria, and Karpenisi, with the best rooms selling out several weeks in advance.

Conclusion

Greece's mountain destinations offer families an alternative holiday experience, with nature, tradition, and activities suitable for all ages. Choosing the right accommodation, with attention to heating, space, and child-friendly amenities, makes the difference between a challenging and an unforgettable getaway. With proper planning and a little attention to seasonality, Zagorochoria, Arachova, Karpenisi, Metsovo, Pelion, Elati and Pertouli, Kalavryta, and Parnassos can become your family's next favourite destination.