From Volos, it's about 45 minutes up the spine of the peninsula on narrow, winding roads and then another 45 minutes down on even more harrowing roads. The place, however, is worth the effort. Situated directly in front of a charming natural harbor, Ghermaniko is an old building lovingly and thoughtfully restored. ||||We stayed in Ulrich, a downstairs room with a large porch overlooking the harbor. There is a room next door and so the porch is shared but there is an effective privacy screen that gives one the illusion of a private space. We heard no noise from the next door neighbors but did hear footsteps from the neighbors above. The bathroom is large and the shower excellent. There is a large closet with drawers for clothing. Ulrich also had a smaller bed which we used for our suitcases.||||The location is the best in Damouchari. The harbor is immediately to the front. Although not technically a beach, we did take towels down there and swam and snorkeled as did many others. The kayak rental (run by Tomas--highly recommend the trip to Fakistra Beach) is there. There are four or five reasonably priced restaurants in the village that are within 100 to 200 meters or so. Hiking trails and Damouchari Beach (stone and pebbles) are slightly beyond the restaurants. The trail to Fakistra Beach is scenic and relatively easy.||||Breakfast is included and served on the porch of Victoria Guesthouse. There was coffee, yogurt, cereals, hard-boiled eggs, freshly squeezed juice (a different variety daily), French toast, etc.||||Parking is impossible. We never drove our car down to the harbor, preferring to park it in the olive grove at the top of the hill and walk with our luggage to Ghermaniko. We also never once took our car out in the four days that we stayed there. We found the village picturesque and relaxing with plenty to do without driving anywhere else. If you require constant movement on your holidays, this may not be the place for you--there is a laid-back vibe that encourages one to put the car away and relax.||||The family that runs the place is fabulous--very welcoming and friendly, always greeting guests and making sure that they are...
Read moreHotel Ghermaniko in Damouchari was hands down our favorite place we visited in Greece. The hotel itself was quaint, well kept, and relaxing. With only 6 rooms, it was an intimate and quiet retreat. The rooms were recently remodeled and more updated than what's currently pictured with crisp, clean white linen and decor. They also included hot plates and cookware, a refrigerator, and a updated shower with complimentary handmade soap. The rooms provided adequate space for 2 people with a spacious, partitioned porch covered by grapevines, perfect for relaxing. The hotel is a short walk to the beach and tavernas in town.||||What we loved most about our stay was the hospitality. We arrived later than expected, in the dark, but were greeted warmly with mountain tea and cheese pies on the patio. Katerina was away, but her brother Thomas provided excellent service and suggestions for outings during our stay. We loved the traditional breakfast on the patio every morning made by the women of the family, and visits from the pet dogs who lived there too. We were treated as members of the family, making this place feel extremely special.||||The area is rich with hikes, beaches and areas to explore. In early May we avoided crowds and were often one of about 10 on any given beach. The neighboring towns were very quiet, and not a lot was open for the season yet, but for us this was a benefit. The road to Damouchari is quite narrow, windy, and not for the faint of heart, so I would recommend staying for a number of days to make the journey worth it. It's a completely different side to Greece that you won't get anywhere else. If you're looking for a unique, relaxing, beautiful and friendly vacation place, look no further! We will definitely be coming...
Read moreI stayed with Katerina and her family for 3 weeks September _ October. My accommodation was perfect. Beautifully designed with comfortable minimalism. Similar to a Zen retreat. I was alone by my own design but Katerina and mother Victoria and other family were always available if need be. Especially if i required food. Victoria, the Grand Dame of Damouchari is a local to the area and a gifted baker and chef.She's made over a 1000 cakes in a season.... All sorts of delicious local flavors. I had a piece every day.||The guesthouse is set on a bay which couldn't be better, complete with lapping surf. I swam in the bay and it was magical. A five minute walk away is a beautiful beach with turquoise waters..... Beyond beautiful. ||I only left Damouchari 3 times in 3 weeks. Each time I was headed to one of the local restaurants.||I did rest and rehabilitate in 3 weeks of peace. The entire family of Ghermaniko took care of me as I needed. Their attentive care and persolized service is not found elsewhere, in Pellion.||This is my new retreat. Next time I will rent a car and visit more of this little known...
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