Greece is widely known for its sun-drenched islands and beaches, but a recent feature in Switzerland’s Neue Zürcher Zeitung shines a spotlight on the country’s lesser-known winter sports offerings. Despite the nation’s summer reputation, Greece boasts 26 ski resorts with 191 kilometers of slopes and 118 ski lifts, attracting around 800,000 skiers annually—90% of whom are locals.
The article points out that while these figures are modest compared to Switzerland’s 353 resorts and nearly 7,000 kilometers of slopes, Greece’s mountainous terrain—covering 80% of the country—creates striking snowy landscapes each winter. Resorts like Parnassos, Kalavryta, and Kaimaktsalan transform into alpine-like destinations when snow blankets the peaks, offering a unique contrast to the country’s traditional summer image.
For Greece’s winter jet set, the village of Arachova, perched on the slopes of Mount Parnassos, is a top choice. Often called the “Mykonos of winter,” it blends boutique shopping, bars, and a lively après-ski scene with close proximity to the historic Delphi Oracle. The nearby Parnassos Ski Centre, established in the mid-1970s, features 23 slopes, 17 lifts, and elevations ranging from 1,500 to 2,250 meters, including off-piste black runs for experienced skiers.
The Swiss feature also highlights Greek achievements on the international ski stage. Alexander Gkinis, raised in Parnassos, became the first Greek skier to reach the podium in a World Cup series event, finishing second in the slalom at Chamonix-Mont-Blanc, France, on February 4, 2023.
