Arkochori, an unknown corner of Imathia, a picturesque village in Central Macedonia, offers a junket into tradition and the dazzle of nature.
Nestled between the two hills of Agios Athanasios and Dimitrios, at the foot of Vermio, invisible and hidden in a dense forest of oaks, chestnuts and firs, Arkochori (Arkoudochori), in Central Macedonia, stands on ancient routes of the nomadic herds that were led to the their summer pastures and on paths that opened in her path the bear, also granting its name. The village made its appearance in historical events in the year 1646. Due to the quarrel of two Turkish officials, they each claimed this privileged region for themselves.
In modern times, Arkochori, already included in the “Authentic Villages of Adrionet Andria-Ionian” network, is inhabited by quite a few permanent residents.
The dwellers of Naoussa bash on their ancestral occupations in the village, such as logging, charcoal production, animal husbandry and beekeeping. However, since the 1950s, they have been professionally engaged in fruit growing, where, thanks to the mild climate and altitude, excellent quality local products are manufactured. In recent years, ancient customs such as the festival of Prophet Elias and the sacrifice of Agios Athanasios, but also recent cultural institutions such as the mountain road race, the summer concerts and lectures, assemble a large number of people in this picturesque village.
Taking advantage of its privileged position, its natural environment and its architectural beauty, Arkochori has emerged as one of the leading alternative tourist destinations in Central Macedonia. Wanderings in picturesque streets, gazing upon flowery courtyards of traditional stone houses, flavors. A stream of flavors and aromas of handmade recipes by wonderful restaurateurs and the most skilled cooks of the village that stimulates all the senses.
The graphical village of Central Macedonia has many paths that lead to crystalline springs, clearings with a magnificent view and sunless forests, with the wolf and the bear as absolute protagonists.
Traditional recipes invite you to a merry-go-round of flavorful seduction…
In 1992, Xarama tavern set off as a small family business by Stefanos Lafaras. In the course of a few years, it succeeded in becoming a pole of attraction, welcoming travelers from all over Greece. Indulge in the enjoyment of delicious appetizers with the local cuisine offering traditional specialties with pure local raw materials.
Try mantza (fried green peppers, sauce, garlic sprinkled with the well-known hard salty cheese of western Macedonia with the Vlach name batzo), makalokeftedes in armi (armi has nothing to do with salt. It is a type of porridge mixed with flour and tomato sauce), batzio with tomato jam and of course game. Extremely familiar flavors are also the exceptional sizzling greens!
Traditional Cafe ‘Mikri Arktos’
A traditional cafe-restaurant in the central square of Arkochori that offers moments of relaxation and a warm, family atmosphere. Homemade appetizers, traditional omelettes and delicious stews accompanied by local wine and tsipouro create explosions of pleasure on the palate.
Grill-Snack Bar “To Steki tou Arkoudou”
Giorgos Batsalas and his wife Amalia Sakkou, established their own ‘retreat’. At Arkochori in Naoussa and “Steki tou Arkoudou”, all seasons of the year offer elements of uniqueness, perfectly harmonized with the opulent natural environment.The warmth of hospitality, whether you find yourself on a hot summer day or a cold winter night, will bring back memories of a special place, accompanied by delicious hot dogs, cold beer or a glass of wine, local tsipouro and drinks.
The accommodation in Arkochori is renowned for the quality of a well-rested and relaxing sleep
Mylos
Mylos Traditional Guesthouse is located in Arkochori and offers barbecue facilities, free WiFi, a shared kitchen and a terrace. This tourist accommodation is endowed with a special decoration, reminiscent of a museum, while the colorful garden is decorated with the most beautiful flower arrangements. All rooms acquire a balcony with a mountain view. The guest house units include a wardrobe and a private bathroom with a shower and free toiletries. The rooms of Mylos are also equipped with TV, fridge and hairdryer.
Villa Vadola
Villa Vadola has been built according to the traditional local architecture of Arkochori and has mountain views. Free WiFi is offered throughout. All of Vadola’s beautifully decorated rooms feature stone details, wood-beamed ceilings and a TV. They also include a mini fridge and a private bathroom with a hairdryer and free toiletries. Rooms with a fireplace on request offer romantic notes for relaxing evenings. Enjoy the simplicity of nature next to the mountains and indulge in the sounds of hidden streams and birds singing even during the night!