Naousa: The heart of Xinomavro

Route information

Distance

55 km

Estimated duration

1h 20min

Difficulty level

Easy

Route type

Road

Route Category

Linear

When to go

The region is magical all year round, offering different experiences to visitors depending on the season. The most enchanting period to travel to Naousa is during the harvest, from October until early November. The aroma of fresh grapes and their sweet juices fills the air, the vineyards are buzzing with life, while many wineries host special events and happenings for wine lovers.

Did you know?

At the foothills of Mt Vermio, Naousa is the place where Xinomavro – the most emblematic red variety of Northern Greece – is expressed with depth and character, producing dry, semi-dry, and semi-sweet full-bodied wines with good structure. Spanning an area of 700 hectares, the viticultural zone of Naousa is the home of PDO Naousa red wines. The mountainsides, the cold north winds, and the unique microclimate of the area mould robust wines with fruity aromas and strong tannins that evolve over the years, much like the land that produces them.

01
The Kir-Yianni estate
Integrated wine tourism experiences, including visits to vineyards, tours of production spaces, and tastings, are offered by the region's certified open-to-the-public wineries, both small and large. Start at the Kir-Yianni Estate in Giannakochori. Wander through the Xinomavro vineyards on foot or by electric bicycle, enjoy a dreamlike picnic with local delicacies, and pick from a variety of tasting packages. Learn about the special events organised every month, which include activities for the whole family!
Before your visit, it is recommended you contact the open-to-the-public wineries of your choice. Tours, tastings, and other wine tourism experiences are usually offered by appointment.
02
The Estate Foundi
Add to your list family-run Estate Foundi, now managed by the third generation, continuing the tradition with unabated zeal.
Before your visit, it is recommended you contact the open-to-the-public wineries of your choice. Tours, tastings, and other wine tourism experiences are usually offered by appointment.
03
The Vaeni Naousa
Don’t miss Vaeni Naousa, the largest winemaking cooperative in Northern Greece, uniting small producers in a shared history of taste. Taste selected labels, listen to the fascinating stories of the people behind the wine, and experience the "journey" with all your senses. The winemakers of Naousa know how to share their love for wine and their land.
Before your visit, it is recommended you contact the open-to-the-public wineries of your choice. Tours, tastings, and other wine tourism experiences are usually offered by appointment.
04
The Boutari Winery
Visit also the historic Boutari Winery, one of the first to promote PDO Naoussa wine internationally.
Before your visit, it is recommended you contact the open-to-the-public wineries of your choice. Tours, tastings, and other wine tourism experiences are usually offered by appointment.
05
The Taralas Estate
Continue to Taralas Estate, which cultivates its privately owned vineyards using organic methods.
Before your visit, it is recommended you contact the open-to-the-public wineries of your choice. Tours, tastings, and other wine tourism experiences are usually offered by appointment.
06
Artificial lake of Agia Varvara
Continue to the artificial lake of Agia Varvara for a relaxing walk or a bicycle ride with a view of the lake and the dam of the Aliakmonas river. Spring is a singular season during which to enjoy the landscape, as the peach trees blossom on the plain of Veria.
07
Monastery of the Virgin at Kallipetra
Combine your tastings with a visit to the Monastery of the Virgin at Kallipetra. Nestled on the slopes of Mt Vermio, it was founded in 1100 AD and is one of the oldest monasteries in the region. It is part of the Skete of Veria, which, during Byzantine and Ottoman times, numbered dozens of monasteries and had been dubbed the Small Mount Athos. From here, take in the breathtaking view of the Aliakmonas river, where the Pieria Mountains and Mt Vermio meet, creating awe-inspiring images.