The alternative travel destination with something for everyone all year round
The wine with classical origins
Naoussa rests on the foothills of the Vermio Mountains where Dionysus, the god of wine himself dwelt. He or the ancient Greeks perceived something about wine in the region to merit his presence there and maybe, who knows, even blessed the origins of viniculture itself!
In modern times, the first recorded evidence of viniculture dates back to 1700, where its reputation spread far and wide for being the best wine in the Ottoman Empire. At that time, the Xinomavro, Negoska, Naousseiko, Sefka, Prekniariko, and other varieties of grapes were cultivated in the area’s vineyards.
Naoussa was where the first modern Greek wine was bottled in 1905, the famous “Naoussa Boutari”, while in 1971 the wine-growing region of Naoussa was identified as a Protected Destination of Origin (PDO) region.
Home of Greece’s highest awarded reds
In Naoussa, Xinomavro has found an ideal terroir: The cool Mediterranean climate, mountain slopes and unspoiled nature. Naoussan wines are known for their aromatic and complex character and durability. It is no wonder that Naoussa was declared International City of Wine and Vines in 1987 by the Organisation Internationale de la Vigne et du Vin (International Vine and Wine Organisation) and also considered to be the Greek wine with the best potential on the international stage.
Follow the wine trail
Experience what we’re saying for yourself!
Naoussa and the surrounding area has tens of vineyards and wineries, many of which you can visit for yourself and discover for yourself exactly why its so world renowned. Yes, it’s the good part now! You’ve got this far and read what others have had to say about this amazing wine. You simply have to try it for yourself!
We have created a wine trail of the most established wineries that will keep you busy for days if you like! “Chatzimalousi 17” is the Wine and Vine Museum.
WINE AT ITS BEST!
Land of Xinomavro, the noble Greek red variety! In Naoussa, Xinomavro has found an ideal terroir: The cool Mediterranean climate, mountain slopes and unspoiled nature. Naoussan wines are the highest awarded Greek reds, known for their aromatic and complex character and durability. Enjoy a glass of this famous wine like kings, emperors, merchants or travellers did for hundreds of years in every corner of the world. Browse the vineyards of great wineries and get to know the people behind the labels. Hide yourself between the oak barrels and, if you’re lucky enough, you’ll have the chance to try some old, rare vintages of Xinomavro!
There’s something for everyone to do.
Whether you want activities that get your adrenaline really going, such as skiing, 4×4 and mountain biking, or prefer to just take it a lot easier, letting nature have that calming and soothing effect on you, Naoussa’s countryside really has it all.
You’ll be absorbed.
There’s so much to do!
What do you like doing outdoors? Well, whatever it is, you can probably do it all in and around Naoussa. Nestled on the foothills of the Vermio mountain range you can ski at one of two nearby resorts in the winter, trek, cycle or drive 4×4 off-road. There are captivating nature walks too for those more inclined to simply relax and be.
Naoussa at the heart of nature
Wherever you walk in Naoussa you’re walking in nature
Everywhere you walk in town nature will get your attention, whether at the town park and your met with the great view across the Macedonian plain, or round a corner and you see the Vermio Mountains towering above you, or you cross the Arapitsa River, which divides the town in two, on the many bridges, or hear the sound of the many waterfalls along the river. And that’s if you’re just in town. Around Naoussa nature takes on so many forms for you to enjoy from flat lands, smooth foothills, steep mountains, gorges, meadows and forests. You’ll enjoy nature to the full in Naoussa!
The Saint Nicholas’ Grove experience
You’ll get lost in its beauty and its on Naoussa’s doorstep
Few places in Greece can boast a grove quite like St.Nicholas’. On the outskirts of the city you can walk for hours through acres of grass, the riverside, pond and feel that you’re in undisturbed nature on the side of a mountain.
You’re even spoiled for choice!
Good things come in pairs and Naoussa offers you not one, but two ski centres on its doorstep! They are suitable for all levels, have long runs, ski schools and offer equipment hire at very reasonable rates making Naoussa a great winter ski destination, with live events too!
Ski to your heart’s content!
Yes, really, there’s much enjoyable skiing to be done around Naoussa! There are two ski resorts very close to Naoussa and for those willing to travel further afield there’s a link at the bottom of the page for those ski centres. Do remember to check the snow report before setting out each day.
3 – 5 Pigadia
The name means 3 – 5 wells. As funny as it sounds to have a range of well numbers as a name (!) the place is great for winter skiing. There are 10 ski slopes totalling 10km, of all difficulties from green to black and long enough to make a run really worth it. It’s the only place in Greece to have artificial snow generators, but the snow is usually brilliant. There are about three hire shops just outside Naoussa offering really good rates, but there is also a good hire facility at the ski centre itself. The ski lift pass for the 5 ski lifts is cheap and you can find many organised schools when there too.
Seli
This is the birthplace of skiing in Greece and has been operating since 1934. Today it offers 19 courses of all grades, totalling 17km including runs for snow boarders. As with 3-5 Pigadia there are equipment rental facilities on site and schools too, at reasonable prices, as well as bars, hotels and places to take break!
Cycle through mountain plains and thick forests and meet all that nature has for you.
With trails all over the mountains, and flatter foothills, there are short and extended trails to satisfy even the most hardened enthusiast.
Be a trail blazer
Take on the outdoors at your own pace
There are routes of varying difficulty that have been created across the Vermio mountain range. Follow trails that will lead you to streams, brooks, cliff faces, open spaces and explore the great and ancient mountain. You might come across the place where Aristotle taught Alexander the Great too! All a stone’s throw from Naoussa.
4×4 to the max!
You won’t be disappointed should you like testing your driving skills to the limit. There are routes and organisations in place to give you the very best experiences.
See the mountain from a whole new angle!
What new sport would you come up with on a mountain? The Vermio Boulder Fest every year takes rock climbing to the limit. Feel brave enough?
Rock climbing and the Vermio Bouldering Fest.
Bouldering is about taking on huge boulders from every angle and finding ways to navigate your way across, around and above them. As you can see from the gallery you do it as a team and there are safety measures in place so you can concentrate on overcoming!
THE PLACE WHERE ARISTOTLE EDUCATED ALEXANDER THE GREAT
Naoussa was the place of a meeting that has influenced western civilization as we know it. Here, young Alexander The Great was educated by the great philosopher Aristotle of Stagira. The world’s first university is located at idyllic Mieza, a place full of shady caverns and flowing waters, only a few minutes drive from Naoussa, and you can still visit it today. Did you know that in the last 200 years, the history of Naoussa has been marked by the heroism and the sacrifices of its people and great economic and industrial prosperity? Now you do!
A PLACE LIKE NO OTHER
Naoussa is a beautiful and peaceful town, with much to surprise you, from its breathtaking surroundings to its world renowned wines. Naoussa is a place of rich cultural history, unique neighborhoods and mouthwatering local dishes. Wander on the cobblestone roads or in the luscious mountains and you’ll be in awe at the breathtaking views and unique experiences. Naoussa is the place to seduce you with its large mansions, old industries, watermills, river and unspoiled nature. But… sorry, there are no beaches!
ALL 4 SEASONS IN THE MOUNTAINS
The mountains around the Heroic Town of Naoussa are ideal to visit any time of year. You can enjoy sports, fun and relaxation in winter just as much as in the fairer seasons. Experience a wide array of outdoor activities each season such as skiing, snowboarding, trekking and walking, mountain-biking, horseback riding, 4×4, archery or just enjoy a barbeque in the forest; the list just goes on…Adrenaline lovers, the Vermio Mountains are your paradise!
IF ONLY I COULD STOP TIME
Imagine sitting at a table full of local goodies on a wooden balcony watching the sunset over Macedonia’s vast plain, drinking a glass of wine. Imagine sipping a hot cup of coffee in front of a fireplace in a luxurious chalet next to a ski resort. Naoussa offers days full of relaxation, tranquility and fun, whether you choose to stay in the town or at the surrounding resorts. Enjoy wandering through the cobbled streets in the picturesque neighborhoods of the old town, where traditional buildings stand near magnificent, expansive parks. These are experiences that you do not get to enjoy everyday!
THE GREEK GREEN
Even within the town of Naoussa, nature is everywhere. The foamy Arapitsa River, one of the few rivers in Greece to have a female name, runs through Naoussa, creating waterfalls and separating the town into two unequal parts. Stroll the green slopes full of trees, cross a beautiful canyon and climb snowy mountains. You’ll have fun and adventure, by yourself but also with your whole family. You must visit the wonderful St. Nicholas’ Grove, just some minutes outside of Naoussa! Did you know that the Municipality of Naoussa has the largest forestland in Greece? Now you do!
A CULTURE THAT GOES WAY BACK
The ancient “Boules” custom, which is revived every year during carnival season, is the most visual expression of culture in Naoussa. Folk art and history are proudly represented by wonderful handmade weaving, knitting and silverware – elements which all played a role in Naoussa’s flourishing industry. Cultural events such as wine festivals, which connect wine production with tradition, or the annual International Naoussa Film Festival, attract thousands of visitors and give the town a character of its own that few others can match.
WINE AT ITS BEST!
Welcome to the land of Xinomavro, the noble Greek red variety! In Naoussa, Xinomavro has found an ideal terroir: The cool Mediterranean climate, mountain slopes and unspoiled nature. Naoussan wines are the highest awarded Greek reds, known for their aromatic and complex character and durability. Enjoy a glass of this famous wine like kings, emperors, merchants or travellers did for hundreds of years in every corner of the world. Browse the vineyards of great wineries and get to know the people behind the labels. Hide yourself between the oak barrels and, if you’re lucky enough, you’ll have the chance to try some old, rare vintages of Xinomavro!
FEAST LIKE A KING
Eating out is one of the great pleasures of life and one of the greatest joys of traveling. In Naoussa you can enjoy fresh local dishes in traditional restaurants. Do you want to eat while enjoying spectacular views of the Macedonian plain or do you prefer visiting restaurants in traditional alleys, full of flowers? The choice is yours! Fresh trout, local game and other meat, delicious cheese (try “batsos”) and marvellous pies. Whatever you like never forget a glass of our famous red wine! The desserts are simply the best! Full of syrup and sometimes nuts, they demonstrate why Northern Greece is the crossroads of oriental and western flavors. Hint: Don’t forget to try the local peaches and cherries!
THE “BOULES” CARNIVAL CUSTOM
The “Boules” custom is the central theme of the traditional carnival of Naoussa, with roots that go way back to Naoussa’s heroic fights throughout its history. It is believed to date back to ancient Dionysian fertility celebrations and the welcoming of spring! Although it flourished at the end of the 19th and the beginning of the 20th century, the custom exists unaltered right up to the present day. The clothing, assembly, ceremony, route, musical repertoire, dances, barrel organs and the participants preserve the details perfectly through the centuries.
Beautiful landscapes, Nice people, Hospitality, Experiences that are completed with the smiles of the locals, Crystal clear blue water, Countless islands, Green mountains! And these are just a few of the many things you can enjoy in Greece!
We love this Greece, we support this Greece, We love to introduce you Greece, We love to help you explore Greece!
Naoussa. The alternative travel destination with something for everyone all year round.
Naoussa is a beautiful and peaceful town, with much to surprise you, from its breathtaking surroundings to its world renowned wines. Is a place of rich cultural history, unique neighborhoods and mouthwatering local dishes. Wander on the cobblestone roads or in the luscious mountains and you’ll be in awe at the breathtaking views and unique experiences. Is the place to seduce you with its large mansions, old industries, watermills, river and unspoiled nature. But… sorry, there are no beaches!
A legendary vintage
The wine with classical origins
Naoussa rests on the foothills of the Vermio Mountains where Dionysus, the god of wine himself dwelt. He or the ancient Greeks perceived something about wine in the region to merit his presence there and maybe, who knows, even blessed the origins of viniculture itself!
In modern times, the first recorded evidence of viniculture dates back to 1700, where its reputation spread far and wide for being the best wine in the Ottoman Empire. At that time, the Xinomavro, Negoska, Naousseiko, Sefka, Prekniariko, and other varieties of grapes were cultivated in the area’s vineyards.
Naoussa was where the first modern Greek wine was bottled in 1905, the famous “Naoussa Boutari”, while in 1971 the wine-growing region of Naoussa was identified as a Protected Destination of Origin (PDO) region.
Γίνετε συνεργαζόμενη επιχείρηση του VIP Club του Hello Thessaloniki!
LUXURY CONCIERGE & PRIVATE TRAVEL SERVICES
Registration Number (MHTE): 0933E70000833601
Ministry of Tourism
Registration Number: 155899506000
