|
 Foreword
by the Regional Authority of Western Macedonia
The ideal destination for those who seek
something different, something authentic.
Western Macedonia is a
geographically isolated region, a fact that has
had a negative impact on the areas tourist
development in contrast to the sun-sea pattern
that has been dominating the sector for the past
years. Nevertheless, recent global trends
underline a need to seek something different,
something authentic. It is exactly that
difference and authenticity that characterizes
the region of Western Macedonia.
The region has two
National Parks, eleven NATURA areas of immense
natural beauty, three ski centers, eight lakes
(seven natural and one artificial), gorges,
rivers, interesting geological formations, two
world trekking paths, remarkable traditional
settlements, a great number of archaeological
sites and a plethora of Byzantine monuments of
international interest. On the other hand, it is
rich in water resources and energy sources.
Western Macedonia is the
ideal destination for mountain tourism, both for
sport and adventure, such as winter ski,
mountain climbing, kayaking, motor cross and
mountain bike competitions.
 Its numerous Byzantine and
post-Byzantine monasteries -- mainly those that
continue to constitute spiritual centers to this
day -- are hospitable with their doors open for
the friends of religious tourism. A network of
archaeological sites spanning all of the
historic eras aspire to showcase everything
unique and representative surviving in the
region; fossilized tree trunks dating back to 20
million years, rare plant and animal fossils
(cinnamon trees, palm trees, mollusks and fish
species), pre-historic animal bones, such as
elephants, horses, rhinoceros, gazelles and
lions, are just a few of the most impressive
finds available to visitors. A lake-side
pre-historic settlement, Hellenistic and
classical cities, Byzantine castles and
churches, bridges, windmills, but also
pre-industrial-era production units cover a vast
spectrum of interests for visitors.
Today, with two new
highway arteries -- primarily the Egnatia Road
and the road detour of mountainous Kastania --
the area can be readily, and, most importantly,
safely accessible. Moreover, the upcoming
construction of secondary roads adjacent to
Egnatia Road, will make the entire region easily
accessible. So take us up on the challenge and
visit us. |
