Pozar Baths: A Winter Escape to Northern Greece’s Natural Wonders

Situated within the Pella area, roughly 103 kilometers northwest of Thessaloniki, Pozar Baths sits amidst a wealth of pure and historic wonders. About 15 caves have been recognized close to the village of Loutraki, simply 10 kilometers west of Aridaia, a lot of that are of geological, archaeological, and paleontological significance. This has led to the institution of the Almopia Cave Park.

On the foot of Mount Voras (also referred to as Kaimaktsalan) and alongside the stream of Aghios Nikolaos, there are various caves and chasms which have been the item of research by researchers and speleologists for years. These caves have revealed proof of life relationship again 1000’s of years. Among the many most notable finds is the higher jaw and left canine tooth from the fossilized cranium of a giant cave bear (Ursus ingressus), relationship again to the Pleistocene epoch, roughly 120,000 to 10,000 years in the past. Different discoveries embrace pottery from prehistoric and historic intervals, instruments, fragments of vessels, and even coral fossils.

Right this moment, many of those artifacts are on show at the Museum of Pure Historical past, positioned within the historic constructing that when housed Aridaia’s previous railway station. Guided excursions can be found by appointment, Monday to Friday, 8:00-16:00 (Tel. (+30) 23843.502.21).

Whereas the caves themselves are closed to the general public, a number of trails wind by way of the Cave Park, providing glimpses of their enigmatic entrances. One such path begins at Pozar Baths and meanders alongside the Loutraki Gorge, ultimately resulting in the picturesque Kounoupitsa Waterfall close to the uninhabited village of Ano Loutraki. From there, one other path results in Dobro Pole – also referred to as Kali Pediada (Good Plain) – a plateau at an altitude of roughly 1,500 meters. This peaceable space, dotted with small ponds, is a sanctuary for birdlife and an important cease for nature lovers.

Exploring Extra Pure Wonders Round Pozar Baths

To the south of Pozar Baths, close to the village of Orma, lies one other pure paradise: the Black Forest of Orma (Mavro Dasos), so named as a result of its dense cover of pines and beeches doesn’t permit daylight to interrupt by way of. One other story hyperlinks the identify to the forest’s chestnut timber, whereas native legend has Alexander the Nice’s troops making spears out of the forest’s wooden.

Once you arrive at Pozar Baths, remember to go to the Folklore Museum of Loutra (open each day 8:00-16:00, entrance charge €2). The museum affords a captivating glimpse into the on a regular basis lives of the area’s previous inhabitants by way of a formidable assortment of conventional instruments, clothes, and utensils.

After your hike or exploration, there’s no higher method to unwind than by soaking within the thermal waters of Pozar Baths. (Tel. (+30) 23840.913.00, €3 for entry to outside swimming pools.) Whereas personal indoor baths can be found, the outside expertise is unparalleled. The big pool, together with smaller baths located close to a scenic waterfall, provide the distinctive alternative to alternate between the nice and cozy waters and the refreshingly chilly cascade, offering an invigorating and unforgettable expertise.

The place to Eat

In Aridaia: Steki tou Kosma (Tel. (+30) 23840.244.09) serves completely grilled meats and hearty salads.

Within the village of Lykostomo: Alatopipero (Tel. (+30) 23840.910.39) affords basic Greek taverna dishes, equivalent to handmade spicy cheese dip (tirokafteri), pork stomach and minced meat patties.

Close to the village of Orma: At Kokkino Piperi (Tel. (+30) 23840.911.00), you’ll be able to strive conventional slow-cooked dishes like lamb in a clay pot or pork shank.

In Orma: Tavernaki tis Boubous (Tel. (+30) 23840.941.84) is thought for its grilled steaks and stuffed meat patties.