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In the northwest corner of Greece, 680 metres above sea level, surrounded by beautiful lakes and mountains is the town of Florina (http://bit.ly/AgtjuE). The city is an economic centre and commercial crossroads, linking Greece with the former Yugoslav Republic of Macedonia and Albania.

The climate (continental with cold winters, heavy rain and snow) and geography of the city give it a particular appearance. It is situated on the banks of the river Sakouleva, sunk in green and often in winter is covered with snow.

In terms of architecture, the town of Florina can offer characteristic examples of the neoclassical and Macedonian style from the past, influenced by elements of local culture. Many of the buildings were built during the Ottoman rule. The efforts of many people have given the city a chance to develop the programmes for promoting ecotourism, using European Union funds. Stroll the picturesque streets of the city and enjoy the remains of past ages, which are in absolute harmony with the modern buildings. You can even take a walk in the beautiful woods surrounding the city.

Visitors can learn about the history of the city by taking a walk around the archaeological sites in the southern part of the city, on the hill of St. Panteleimon, and in the museums of Florina - Archaeological, Byzantine, and Ethnographic Museum of Contemporary Art. Also you can visit the art gallery where you can see works by artists from Florina.

From Mount St. Panteleimon there is a wonderful view of the city. There you can find restaurants and bars, and on the top there is a 30 metre-high cross, which is illuminated by spotlights at night.

On the bank of the river

Florina Town is situated on both banks of the river Sakouleva, the most developed of which is the left bank of the river.

The houses in neoclassical style, which rise on both banks of the river are impressive and are an inspiration for artists, photographers and filmmakers – the enchanting landscape of the city was the backdrop for three of the films by the great Greek director Theo Angelopoulos ("Landscape in the Mist”, "The Bee Keeper" and "Stork on One Leg").

Along the river you will also see studios of local artists. Many works of Florina artists have become known not only in Greece but also abroad.

City of snow and natural beauty

The area around Florina offers both landscapes - mountain and plain. The town is surrounded by high mountain ranges - Voras (Kaimakchalan) 2524 m, Varnoundas (Peristeri) 2334 m, and Verno (Vitsi) 2128 m.

Situated nineteen kilometres from the town is Vigla-Pisoderi ski resort (www.vigla-ski.gr), a favourite meeting place for lovers of snow and nature that come from all over Greece. It has five lifts and ten slopes that can serve all levels of skiers and snowboarders.

In the same direction, at a distance of 45 kilometres is the National Park "Prespa" (www.fdedp.gr), one of the most popular tourist destinations in Greece, an area of ​​outstanding natural beauty known worldwide for its rare species of flora and fauna. There, as the saying goes "nature imitates art"! In "Prespa" (www.prespes.gr), you will not have to search for traditional villages, since the entire region has kept its traditional style and will offer countless opportunities.

In this region you will find beautiful, picturesque villages and towns, some known, such as Psarades and Nimfeo and others less known, like Andartiko.

Traditional Products

The most famous local products from the region of Florina are red peppers, traditional sweets, Prespa beans and the famous local wines. In the traditional taverns you can taste the local fish species from lakes and delicious local cheeses.

How to get there

Florina is located 159 kilometres from Thessaloniki and 571 kilometres from Athens. Once on the Athens-Thessaloniki highway drive to Larissa and then head to Elassona. From there follow the signs to Kozani and then to Florina.

Where to stay

For your stay in the region of Florina, you can select one of the hotels on the following websites

www.cityoflorina.gr/index.php?option=com_content&task=blogcategory&id=99&Itemid=248

and

http://bit.ly/zQ2HKt