Livadi: The Beautiful Provincial Village of Larissa

Livadi in Elassona is one of those hidden gems that most people don’t know about but are worth discovering. Nestled on the southeastern slopes of Mount Titara at an altitude of 1,160 meters, it offers breathtaking views of the Olympus mountain range. Once a popular holiday destination, it still attracts visitors, especially during the summer months.

The village’s residents primarily have Vlach heritage, which is why you may also hear it referred to as Vlaholivadi. This is the birthplace of Georgakis Olympios, a collaborator of Alexandros Ypsilantis in the struggle in the Danubian Principalities. He was killed during the siege of the Sekkou Monastery by the Ottomans when he blew up the ammunition depot to prevent himself and his comrades from being captured. A museum dedicated to his memory operates in the square with the plane tree, at the house where he was born. It opens by appointment, and you can ask at one of the village taverns for assistance. Notably, Livadi is also one of the villages that was destroyed by the Germans in 1944 but managed to recover and become a key village in the region.

To reach Livadi from Athens, it takes considerable time, approximately 423 kilometers, so expect to travel nearly four and a half hours. However, those from Thessaloniki are in luck, as it is only about 115 kilometers away. If you are traveling down from Thessaloniki, you’ll have the chance to pass through the beautiful Platanodasos of Neokaisareia, beside the Aisonas River, which is worth stopping for. After Kato Milia, the scenery becomes more interesting with more greenery and certainly more beautiful views. If you are coming from Athens, you will go through Larissa and Elassona, a route without any surprises, although some spots are particularly scenic.

Traditional Tyropita / Photo: Giannis Zarzonis

The road into the village is narrow, flanked by old whitewashed stone houses, some with gray slate roofs and others modern two-story buildings. The courtyards of the houses, where they exist, are small due to the amphitheater-like layout of the village but are well-tended, featuring vines, various greenery, and a variety of flowers. The cobbled streets, with their whitewashed walls, even resemble Cycladic alleys in places, enhancing the village’s charm. At the center of Livadi is the square with the massive plane tree and the stone fountain, where you’ll find the locals relaxing at taverns and cafes, sharing stories about the village.

Just a little further down, there is another square opposite the town hall. When the weather is nice, cafes and taverns set up chairs and tables outside to enjoy the sunshine. Higher up, you’ll find the Women’s Cooperative of the village, named “O Sofras,” where you can purchase traditional products like trahanas, liqueurs, and spoon sweets, as well as enjoy a meal since there is also a restaurant on-site. To the south of the village, where the statue of Georgakis Olympios stands on a small hill, there is a lovely grove for walking and admiring the panoramic view, and if the weather permits, you can enjoy a small picnic.

Museum of Georgakis Olympios / Photo: Giannis Zarzonis

Lanari Hotel

In Livadi, you come for the fresh air, the panoramic views, the taverns, the tranquility, and the beautiful trails around the area. The village borders the Bimba-Sapka-Varna-Agriadia-Vigla-Livadi Wildlife Refuge, meaning you can enjoy interesting hikes amidst stunning nature. One of the nearest trails is toward Saltsi, a small forest with a stone fountain located northeast just outside the village. Essentially, you walk a little on the asphalt and take a left as soon as you see the path. This is a beautiful spot for a picnic as well. The European E4 trail also passes through the village, allowing for longer hikes.

If you want to enjoy the best view of the area, head up by car or hike to the old stone church of Prophet Elijah, where you’ll see mountain peaks, plains, and villages sprawling before you. You can also visit the Monastery of the Holy Trinity, likely built in the 17th century, located about 4 kilometers southeast of the village, which served as a refuge and stronghold for many bandits and armed men from Olympus.

Accommodation

Lanari Guesthouse: A guesthouse with carefully curated traditional decor and comfortable spaces.
Tel: 2493041210, lanari.gr

Mythikas Hotel: Located to the south of the village, offering panoramic views and well-kept rooms in traditional style.
Tel: 6972191333, facebook.com

Dining

O Giorgakis Ouzeri: Located in the Plane Tree Square, serving everything from stuffed cabbage rolls to grilled meats.
Tel: 2493041400, facebook.com

Themis Tavern: Also in the square, serving grilled meats and skewers with traditional sides.
Tel: 6978791247

O Sofras: The restaurant of the Women’s Cooperative serves homemade dishes and daily specials.
Tel: 2493041820, facebook.com

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