Urania Traditional Stone House

Tucked off the beaten path in peaceful Pinakates, our authentic 18th-century archontiko offers a rare escape into nature. Since 2014, we’ve welcomed over 440 guests from 17 countries seeking genuine Pelion charm. It’s an intentional, rustic retreat—no TV, no A/C, and a 300m walk up a steep stone path—designed specifically for travelers who value peace, history, and mountain quiet over standard hotel amenities. The space Our traditional home (aka "Archontiko" in Greek) in Pinakates offers a completely different experience — a return to the authentic rhythms of Pelion mountain life. It is a space designed for a select few who value peace, nature, and the opportunity to truly unwind, without sacrificing essential modern connectivity. ⚠️ IMPORTANT NOTE FOR GROUP BOOKINGS: If you are booking on behalf of a group, family, or partner, please ensure every single person in your group reads this description before you confirm your reservation. The few (3–4) — but stressful (both for us and our guests) — misunderstandings we have experienced over the years happened when the person booking was excited about the house, but their guests were completely unaware of its unique setting! Before booking, please make sure EVERYONE in your party is fully prepared for the following: 1. Challenging Access & Cobblestone Path: The car cannot reach the house. It requires a 300-meter walk along a traditional stone-paved path ("kalderimi" in Greek), which is steep at the beginning and uneven in places. - Note: The path is NOT accessible for strollers/prams. We recommend traveling light and wearing comfortable walking shoes. 2. Plenty of Stairs: There are numerous steps both in the courtyard and inside the house. Although we have hosted families with babies and elderly guests (even in deep winter snow), access can be genuinely demanding for many people. 3. Summer Heat & No A/C: The house does NOT have air conditioning (A/C). On very warm summer days, it can get hot inside (especially on the upper floor). To help you cool down, we provide a floor fan in every room. (Full central heating is available during winter). 4. Presence of Insects & Nature: If you are sensitive to insects, this house is not for you. Even though we carry out pest control treatments at least twice a year, the building's 200+ year age and its proximity to the forest mean you will likely cross paths with nature. You should expect frequent encounters with ants, spiders, and flies, as well as occasional sightings of wasps, centipedes, or very rarely, scorpions. 5. Strict Outdoor Fire & BBQ Ban (May 1st – October 31st): Due to our location in the forest and strict Greek fire protection laws, outdoor barbecues or open flames are strictly prohibited during the summer fire season. 6. No TV (but Fast Wi-Fi available): There is no television in the house, encouraging an intentional break from screens. However, if you need to work or stream on your personal devices, we offer fast Wi-Fi and excellent mobile reception. The views look out exclusively onto the majestic, green mountain slopes, not the sea. 7. No Pets Allowed: Due to severe owner allergies, we unfortunately cannot accommodate pets under any circumstances. Is this house for you and your group? If the idea of leaving your car behind, walking up a mountain path, slowing down, and enjoying the tranquility of nature sounds like the ideal escape rather than an inconvenience to everyone in your team, we would love to welcome you! After the disclaimer and clarifications, here are a few words about our "Archontiko": On the outskirts of a small traditional village, this stunning traditional archontiko is an ideal getaway all year round. It offers a unique experience in complete harmony with nature and the authentic spirit of Pelion’s historic villages. Its story is remarkable: a meticulously restored stone manor originally built in the late 18th century, it is now a comfortable two-story archontiko that preserves its original architectural soul while offering essential modern conveniences to its guests. Ground Floor Entering through the impressive original wooden door, you step into a large dining area featuring a traditional fireplace and a fully equipped kitchen. The dining table comfortably seats 6 people, and the kitchen features gas hobs, an electric oven, a fridge/freezer, a toaster, a Nespresso machine, and a dishwasher. A spacious double bedroom and a full bathroom are also located on this level. Upper Floor A spiral staircase leads to the second level, which hosts the main living area filled with natural light. Here, you will find plenty of space to relax in front of the main fireplace, unwind with a good book, or stream a movie on your laptop. This level also features a spacious double bedroom (with an en-suite basin, fireplace, wardrobe, and dresser) and a twin bedroom (with its own fireplace, wardrobe, and dresser). Throughout the interior, the rich warmth of local wood combined with original stone creates an atmosphere of timeless, rustic elegance—letting you step back in time without sacrificing comfort. Terrace Outside, the stone terrace and garden offer breathtaking hillside views. It is the perfect spot to sit back, listen to the stillness, and soak in the natural beauty of Pelion, no matter the season. Amenities & Services: - Wi-Fi (ideal for remote work or personal streaming) - Heating & Hot Water (electric heating throughout) - Four (4) Working Fireplaces (firewood provided upon request for a small fee based on consumption) - Fully Equipped Kitchen (with dishwasher & Nespresso machine) - Washing Machine - 2 Full Bathrooms (one with shower, one with bathtub) - Natural Greek Toiletries (Korres) - Bed Linen, Fresh Towels & Hairdryer - Outdoor Furniture and deckchairs - Board Games - Baby Cot (available on request) - Outdoor Barbecue (available exclusively outside the fire-risk season, Nov 1st – Apr 30th) - Free Village Parking (located 300 meters / 985 feet away via a traditional walk-up path; car is recommended for exploring the region) - House Cleaning (available on request at an extra cost) - Strictly No Smoking inside - No Pets Allowed Guest access Our archontiko is located in one of the quietest neighborhoods of the village, nested away from the main road into the mountain side. House is only accessible on foot by walking along 300m on an unpaved path for about five minutes. Registration Details 00001100326