We have been visiting Pelio for a number of years and it is one of our favorite places. We prefer the Agean side and stay in Agios Ioannis. It is a bit larger than most of the towns and offers more variety in restaurants etc. It is still not large by any means. Three beaches within easy walking distance and I believe you can rent small motorboats on a daily basis. We stay at the Anesis Hotel and he offers a kayak to guests. We always rent a car and travel from Kifissia (northern Athens). It is a 4-5 hour ride and the roads are easy to drive. A friend of ours takes the bus and overnights in Volos. I cannot provide any of the bus details but perhaps she will see this post and respond. I'm sure you will like Pelio. It is different from much of Greece as it is green and lush with water flowing in the mountains. The beaches we go to are very small pebbles which we prefer over sand. Hope you enjoy.

Hey and welcome Mimi459:-) I think you've got a wonderful plan here! I've been wanting to check out the area for years now myself..in the past, the dolphins enroute to the Sporades used to make a stop at a place called Trikeri..remember how 'stunning' it was..absolutely gorgeous setting w/clear waters..lush hills! I think renting a car from the start in Athens is ideal..it's a wonderful coastal drive for the most part up to Volos in about 4 hours or so..you'll be passing by Aghios Constantinos where the ferries depart/arrive from the Sporades..further up the road a bit is Kammena Vourla..lovely seaside Town..if you decide to spend a night here check out the Galini Hotel..(although you can also take a bus up to Volos from Athens and a rent a car there if you so choose..but I'd personally grab one in Athens for the convenience and take in the beautiful scenery:-) Take a look at http://www.aroundpelion.com/ It's a relatively large, sprawled out area..couldn't imagine attempting this without a car..Have fun planning..ENjoy!

Thank you very much for your help. The problem with Greece is that there are so many beautiful places, and so many options, that it's hard to decide what to do!

We've decided to save the Pelion for 2012, and visit the Dodecanese next instead. I know that mainland Greece has many beautiful sights but we find ourselves drawn to the islands.

So thank you for your thoughtful answers. I'll save these to refer to next year.

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