From Thessaloniki: Pozar Baths & Wine Tasting

Travel experiences are often about finding that sweet spot between relaxation, scenery, and local flavor. This particular tour from Thessaloniki promises just that: a day spent soaking in thermal springs, marveling at waterfalls, and enjoying some excellent Greek wines. We’ve looked into what makes this trip appealing—and what might make you pause—so you can decide if it’s a good fit for your plans.

Two things we really like about this experience are the combination of natural thermal baths with a taste of regional cuisine and wine, plus the ease of transportation that makes the day feel relaxed rather than rushed. The fact that the thermal springs are known for their therapeutic benefits adds a nice wellness touch. On the flip side, a potential consideration is the longer drive from Thessaloniki, which might be tiring if you’re not used to bus trips.

This tour is best suited for travelers who want to unwind, enjoy natural landscapes, and indulge in some local food and drink without spending too much time in museums or historical sights. If you’re someone who appreciates comfort, good company, and authentic regional experiences, this trip can be quite rewarding.

Key Points

• Relaxation and Wellness: Soaking in Pozar’s thermal springs, with waters at a steady 38°C, offers a soothing respite that many find beneficial.
• Beautiful Scenery: From the impressive Karanos Waterfall—Greece’s largest—to the scenic drive through Macedonia, there’s plenty to marvel at.
• Culinary Delights: Authentic Greek lunch in Orma Village and local wine tasting with regional delicacies make the day tasty and memorable.
• Comfortable Transportation: The tour includes pick-up and drop-off points in Thessaloniki, with transportation in a coach, making logistics straightforward.
• Flexible and Well-Paced: With around 9 hours total, the itinerary allows for relaxed visits and enough free time to enjoy each stop.
• Authentic Local Experience: Guides provide background info during the drive, and visits are to genuine local spots, not tourist traps.

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The Experience in Detail

Starting the Day: Pickup and Journey

The tour begins with pickup at one of six convenient locations in Thessaloniki, including major hotels and landmarks. From there, we’re on a bus or coach, enjoying a roughly two-hour ride towards Central Macedonia. While this might seem long, the driver’s careful and polite manner, plus the informative commentary, help make the journey pleasant.

Pozar Thermal Baths: A Soothing Haven

Once we arrive at Pozar, the main highlight begins. Known for their therapeutic qualities, the Pozar thermal springs maintain a constant 38°C, perfect for soaking any tension away. Travelers repeatedly mention the baths as both beautiful and soothing, though some note they could be a bit disorganized. Still, the overall consensus is that the experience of relaxing in natural hot waters amid stunning scenery outweighs minor hiccups.

Many reviews praise the chance to unwind in the pools, with one guest from Malta noting, “The baths are a stunning natural wonder, and our guide made sure we fully appreciated them by sharing details about the health benefits of the mineral-rich waters.” The free time here, around two and a half hours, is enough for a good soak and some leisurely wandering.

Exploring Edessa and the Waterfalls

After Pozar, the journey continues with a short drive to Edessa, famously called the City of Waters. This stop is a favorite for its remarkable waterfalls—the Karanos Waterfall, Greece’s largest. We love the way the scenery here is both dramatic and peaceful, making for great photo opportunities and a chance to stretch our legs.

Guests describe the waterfalls as “cudowny” (wonderful), and reviews mention that the stop is ideal for short walks, photos, and perhaps grabbing a snack or a drink. It’s a nice, light break in the day that offers some variety from the thermal baths.

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Lunch in Orma Village

Next up is a traditional Greek lunch in the charming Orma Village. The food is described as authentic, with regional dishes served in a rustic setting that adds to the local flavor. Expect to enjoy some regional delicacies paired with local wines, which many reviewers highlight as a definite highlight. One guest recounted, “We enjoyed a lovely meal next to the waterfalls, with excellent local wine and tapas-style dishes.”

Wine Tasting and Local Flavors

The tour’s next stop is a local winery, where a guided tour awaits. The focus here is on regional wines, expertly paired with local foods. Many travelers find the wine tasting session to be a standout part of the trip, noting the quality of the wines and the care taken in their selection. It’s a relaxed, educational experience that complements the day’s other activities.

Returning to Thessaloniki

After a full day of soaking, exploring, and tasting, we hop back on the coach for the roughly 80-minute drive back to Thessaloniki. Drop-off points are convenient, including major hotels and landmarks, making it easy to continue your evening plans.

What We Think About the Logistics

The tour lasts about nine hours, which is a good length for a day trip. It balances sightseeing with plenty of free time, so you don’t feel rushed. The transportation is comfortable, with pick-up and drop-off in central Thessaloniki, and the driver is praised for careful driving and friendly service.

While some reviews mention the long drive—about two hours each way—most agree that it’s worth it for the experience. If you’re prone to travel fatigue or don’t enjoy bus trips, this might be a consideration. Nevertheless, the ride is generally smooth, and the commentary along the way adds value.

The Value for Money

Considering the inclusion of transportation, entry to Pozar, a traditional lunch, and wine tasting, many guests find this tour offers good value. It’s a full 9-hour experience that covers a lot of ground in a relaxed manner. If you’re looking for a balanced taste of nature, wellness, and regional flavors, this trip packs quite a bit into one day.

Who Should Book This Tour?

This experience is ideal for those who want to escape the city, enjoy natural thermal waters, and indulge in local food and wine. It’s perfect for travelers who appreciate scenic landscapes and are looking for a laid-back, authentic taste of northern Greece. Since the tour involves walking around scenic spots and enjoying outdoor pools, it’s good for people comfortable with some physical activity—though it’s not overly strenuous.

It’s less suited for travelers with mobility challenges, given the mention that it’s not wheelchair accessible, and those who dislike long coach rides might want to consider the overall travel time.

FAQ

Is the tour suitable for children?
While the tour is generally relaxing, it’s mainly geared toward adults. Kids who enjoy outdoor activities and water would probably find the baths and waterfalls enjoyable, but always double-check with the provider for specific age restrictions or considerations.

What should I bring?
Bring a swimsuit, a towel, comfortable shoes suitable for walking and water, and a camera to capture the stunning scenery. Weather can vary, so pack some extra clothes if needed.

How long is the drive from Thessaloniki?
The trip involves a roughly two-hour drive each way, making it a total of about four hours of travel, but the scenery and commentary are often appreciated.

Is there a guide during the stops?
The tour includes a guide who provides background info during the drive, but the baths and waterfalls are free time, so you can explore at your own pace.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, the tour offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, giving you flexibility if your schedule shifts.

Is the experience good value for money?
Given the inclusion of transportation, entry fees, lunch, and wine tasting, most travelers agree it provides a well-rounded, enjoyable day at a reasonable price.

Final Thoughts

If you’re after a relaxed, scenic day that combines natural beauty with regional flavors, this tour from Thessaloniki hits the right notes. The thermal springs are a highlight for wellness seekers, while the waterfalls and lunch add cultural and visual richness. The wine tasting caps off the experience, giving you a taste of local craftsmanship in a convivial setting.

It’s especially suited for travelers who want to spend a day outdoors, enjoy good food, and unwind without the hassle of planning every detail. Keep in mind the drive duration if you’re sensitive to bus travel, but for most, the journey and the activities make the day worthwhile. Whether you’re visiting Thessaloniki for a few days or on a longer trip through Greece, this outing offers a nice balance of nature, relaxation, and regional charm.

In summary, this tour offers a thoughtful way to experience north Greece’s natural and culinary delights. It’s not about big crowds or historical landmarks but about enjoying the simple pleasures of thermal waters, waterfalls, and wine in beautiful surroundings. Perfect for those looking to relax and taste the local flavors with ease.

You can check availability for your dates here: