Thessaloniki to Naoussa, Wine Tasting Tour – Private Day Trip

Pick-Up from your hotel or apartment in Thessaloniki and travel to the first location, Waterfalls of Metamorfosis

Kir-Yianni was founded in 1997 by Yiannis Boutaris, one of the leading figures in the Greek wine industry, when he left the Boutari Wine Group, the premium family wine company that his grandfather established in 1879. Today, Stellios Boutaris, member of the fifth generation of winemakers, leads Kir-Yianni into the next phase of its history, by dynamically exploiting the cornerstones of the Kir-Yianni philosophy: desire for innovation, respect for tradition and true knowledge of the wine, from the grape to the end consumer. Wine in the area of Naoussa has a long history dating back many centuries. The first written documents testify that vine growing and winemaking were practiced already by the 16th century. The main grape variety grown in the vineyards of Naoussa was Xinomavro, trained in gobelet style and planted in dense rows. Today, Naoussa is one of the most prominent wine producing regions of Greece, with 500 ha under vine and about 20 wineries located in the area.

The park of Agios Nikolaos is one of the most important attractions of Naoussa. A natural paradise which attracts locals and visitors, offering beautiful walks, train rides and moments of relaxation away from the rhythms of the city. It is a famous park within an area of dense vegetation, and a great place to enjoy nature. It is located 3 km of the heroic town of Naoussa. Αn earthly paradise consisting of centuries-old plane trees, oaks, chestnuts and running water. The park of perennial plane trees, which is unique in Greece, impresses the visitor at all seasons. Streams, wooden bridges, a small zoo, playgrounds, an artificial fishing pond and the church of Agios Nikolaos compose a canvas of colors and sounds, making Agios Nikolaos one of the most beautiful parks in Greece. It has been awarded the first pan-European renovation award, an important distinction within the institution of the European Urban and Regional Planning Awards.

NOTE: Visit to this attraction it's accessible only with car or minivan option. Minibus can't reach this attraction. Beautiful and easy walking route for everyone. Signposts guide us, always leaving the choice of the order in which we will visit all the attractions of the area. The moment you will find yourself next to the small natural waterfalls and enjoy the endless water will be unforgettable. However, diving into icy waters is not a simple task, especially when it is not summer. For the brave, the pedestals in front of the waterfalls that are offered for swimming are the ones immediately after the Metamorfosi church where there is also the possibility for a picnic and the "Kallisto" pedestal. Drinking water is available in the chapel, at the first pedestal that emerges from among the tree roots and at the "Kallisto" pedestal that emerges from the rock.

It is almost wedged between two hills, those of Saint Athanasios and of Saint Demetrios respectively, almost invisible, hidden in the dense forest with Oak, Chestnut and Filira trees, Arkochori (former Arkoudochori) is standing on the paths of ancient nomadic herds which were taken to their summer grazing grasslands and on pathways that the bear would open in its path, hence the name of the village (Arkouda = Bear). The village emerges at the forefront of history in the year 1646. It is true that utilizing its unique location, natural environment and architectural beauty, Arkochori has become a popular destination for alternative tourism. Thus, it is worth wandering around the picturesque narrow streets, admiring the flower-decorated courtyards of the stone-built traditional houses, quenching our thirst with the icy water springing from the stone fountains and tasting the delicious delicacies prepared by the passionate restaurant owners and the skilled cooks of the village.

Discover the Sacrifice Site of Naoussa, one of the most moving historical landmarks of Northern Greece. This sacred place commemorates the heroic sacrifice of the women of Naoussa, who in 1822 chose to leap into the waterfalls of Arapitsa Waterfall rather than surrender during the brutal suppression of the Greek War of Independence. Today, the site stands as a powerful symbol of courage, freedom, and national pride, surrounded by beautiful natural scenery and offering visitors a deep connection to Greece’s struggle for independence.

Return to the original pick-up point. End of the trip