Greece is widely known for its sun-drenched islands and beaches, but a recent feature in Switzerland’s Neue Zürcher Zeitung shines a spotlight on the country’s lesser-known winter sports offerings. Despite the nation’s summer reputation, Greece boasts 26 ski resorts with 191 kilometers of slopes and 118 ski lifts, attracting around 800,000 skiers annually—90% of whom are locals.
The article points out that while these figures are modest compared to Switzerland’s 353 resorts and nearly 7,000 kilometers of slopes, Greece’s mountainous terrain—covering 80% of the country—creates striking snowy landscapes each winter. Resorts like Parnassos, Kalavryta, and Kaimaktsalan transform into alpine-like destinations when snow blankets the peaks, offering a unique contrast to the country’s traditional summer image.
The Swiss feature also highlights Greek achievements on the international ski stage. Alexander Gkinis, raised in Parnassos, became the first Greek skier to reach the podium in a World Cup series event, finishing second in the slalom at Chamonix-Mont-Blanc, France, on February 4, 2023.
Source: tovima.com
