On the eastern side of Pelion, you will see Chorefto, a coastal settlement alongside one of the biggest and most beautiful beaches in the area. It is the seaport of Zagora, as it is only 9 kilometers away from this main village of Pelion. The distance from the city of Volos is about 55 kilometers; however, you will need over an hour to get there, because of the winding road. But the image one sees, with the centuries-old plane trees decorating the coastal road of the settlement and the large beach with the thin sand, makes the drive worth it.

Chorefto has been a financial center during the 17^th and the 18^th century; the fishing boats of the people of Zagora set sail from its port to load and unload merchandise for large markets of Europe and the East. During that period the two villages communicated through a narrow footpath, which still exists, and the transport of products was carried out by mules. The modern street built in 1941 was a contribution of the rich Zagorian merchant Dimitrios Polimeris, who was considered a benefactor in the area.

Today, Chorefto is a beautiful vacation center with lively touristic development. Chorefto beach is located beneath the village with easy access from Zagora, making it an ideal destination for those who seek both mountain and sea. The accommodation options are numerous and noteworthy. One can find full comfort lodgings, as well as many taverns serving fresh fish and traditional dishes. Also, in Chorefto there is an organized camp site for those who prefer simpler vacation close to nature.

Chorefto beach satisfies all tastes. The northern part has thin sand, whereas the southern, pebbles. Alongside the beach are loungers and umbrellas – mostly at the front of the village – but there is also space to simply lay your towel on the sand. At the southern tip of the beach there is a little port harboring boats. In the summer, it is a starting point for excursion vessels, with destinations to beaches inaccessible by shore.

From the upper side of Chorefto, following a small path, you will find yourself on the magnificent beach of Parisena with the deep blue water, a favorite destination for wild camping. As is the case with Chorefto, Parisena’s foliage reaches the beach itself. Also, hidden in the lush vegetation there is a small bar where you can enjoy your coffee or drink overlooking the Aegean Sea.

After Parisena, taking a trail alongside the water you will reach the secluded beach of Tourkopighi. Then the path gradually ascends to the village of Pouri. From the other side of Chorefto a path connects it to Aghioi Saranda, an enchanting sandy beach with distinctive rocks.

Apart from the beaches, it is worth visiting the little church of Saint Nikolaos, which is built on the ruins of an ancient temple, with icons and wood-carved iconostasis. Something also remarkably interesting are the ruins of the Taxiarhes monastery see en route from Chorefto to Zagora. Another sight is the area of Old Mitzela with sea caves, where Xerxes’ fleet is said to have been destroyed in 480 BC. If you don’t own a boat, you can rent one and sail there.

Finally, for nature lovers there are many hiking trails passing through the dense greenery, characteristic of the area. The inspiration for G. Drossinis’ poetry collection “Galini” (Serenity) is said to have been a result of the calmness of the winter scenery.