The meeting is at 22:30 in front of “Vasil Levski” Stadium, and at 23:00 we depart from Sofia.

Our first break is in the Kresna area — time for pastries, supplies, and water before continuing toward Volos.

First encounter with Pelion

We arrive and settle at Camping Olizon, located near the coastal village of Milina – a peaceful place nestled between green hills and the Aegean Sea. In the village we will have breakfast and feel the first rhythm of Pelion – slow, coastal, and authentic.

After breakfast, we unload the equipment and kayaks. A short rest follows, then a briefing, gear distribution, and introduction to the route and conditions. The day is planned as an orientation day – both with the sea and with the boats and the group.

We divide the group into two. The advanced paddlers will circle the island across from the campsite, while with the beginners we will conduct introductory training and practice the basic techniques of sea kayaking. Afterwards, we all continue together in calm waters toward our first stop – Olive Beach – a small, sheltered beach with Pelion’s characteristic rocky shore and exceptionally clear water. Here we continue with practical training and refining the core techniques.

The next part of the route leads us to a sequence of wild, rarely visited beaches hidden between the cliffs and forested slopes. This is the ideal beginning of the adventure – moderate pace, plenty of time for swimming, breaks, and a gradual introduction to the character of eastern Pelion.

In the late afternoon we return to the campsite. The evening is dedicated to rest and relaxation – dinner at the campsite or at a tavern in Milina. The barbecue is available for participants. It’s worth noting that the village does not have a fish market, but there is an excellent butcher shop, and local fishermen regularly pass by offering fresh fish straight from their vehicles – part of the authentic rhythm of the region.

Paddling distance for the day: 12 km

Difficulty level according to distance: 2 out of 4

Islands, silence and traces of the past

After breakfast we launch the kayaks and head out across the turquoise–ink waters of the Aegean Sea. The day is dedicated to paddling in open sea, island silhouettes and a sense of complete isolation from the mainland.

The first rest stop is on Alatas Island – a small, peaceful island with clear waters and a wild, untouched character. Here we will pause for swimming, rest, and short recovery before continuing along the route.

Shortly before reaching our next destination, we will enter a sea cave carved into the cliffs of the island. Entering the cave is brief but memorable, revealing the raw and untouched nature of this section of Pelion.

We then continue toward a nearby islet where the remains of a well-preserved medieval monastery are located. The site carries a strong sense of history and solitude – stone walls, silence, and a view toward the endless sea. Here we will have lunch and enjoy time for exploration and rest.

After lunch we continue by circumnavigating Alatas Island from its opposite side. In the late afternoon we return to the campsite.

It is important to note that along today's route there are no taverns or places to buy food, so everyone must carry their own provisions and water for the entire day.

The evening is free. We return to the campsite for dinner and rest – a time for relaxation, conversations, and gathering energy for the days ahead.

Paddling distance for the day: 14 km

Difficulty level according to distance: 2 out of 4

The Eastern Coast of Pelion

Today is entirely dictated by the sea. If the waves and wind allow, we organise a transfer to the port of Paltsi – the starting point for one of the most technical and fascinating sections of the Pelion coastline.

From Paltsi we head north, following the rocky and deeply carved shoreline. Our final goals for the day are Melani and Potistika beaches. The distance is relatively short – no more than 6 km – but this is one of the most challenging routes of the entire adventure.

The coast here is dense with rocky capes, narrow passages and stone formations that require precise manoeuvring, good technique and full concentration. The more experienced paddlers will weave between rocks and stone ridges, work with the waves and their reflections off the cliffs, and choose every line with care. This is sea kayaking in its purest form – technical, dynamic and highly engaging. Of course, all participants will be equipped with helmets.

Beginners will observe from the calmer sections, with that slight envy that turns into motivation – waiting for the moment when they too will be able to navigate confidently in such terrain.

Melani Beach welcomes us with its raw, exposed character – dark sand and gravel, steep slopes and deep water that changes its behaviour rapidly depending on the conditions. Potistika Beach, located a little further, is even more impressive with its scale and dramatic relief. These are places that are not “conquered”, but experienced – with respect and attention.

On one of the two beaches we will make a longer break for recovery, swimming and analysing the route. Lunch is in a beach tavern, after which, depending on the conditions, we return along the same route.

After finishing the paddling, we head high into the mountains to the village of Agalasti, where we will end the day with dinner in a traditional tavern known for its local cuisine. The stone architecture and peaceful atmosphere of the village are the natural counterpoint to the intense day spent on the water.

Paddling distance for the day: 12 km

Difficulty level according to distance: 3 out of 4

Technical rock formations and the calm rhythm of Mourtia

After the intense previous day, we return once again to the eastern coast of Pelion. If sea conditions allow, we organise a transfer to the port of Paltsi, but this time we head to the right, along a route with new characteristics and challenges.

From Paltsi we paddle south towards Παραλία Μουρτιά (Paralia Mourtia) – a picturesque beach located in a well-shaped bay, with clean water and the typical rocky shoreline of Pelion. The place combines tranquillity and raw beauty, and the bay often offers more sheltered conditions compared to exposed sections of the coast.

Opposite the beach lies a zone of interesting and technical rock formations, which we will explore carefully. The coastline here is jagged, with rocky ribs, small channels and sections ideal for technical manoeuvring and working with the waves. This terrain allows practice of control, line choice and precise movement close to the rocks, with full emphasis on safety.

At Mourtia Beach we will take a longer break for swimming, recovery and lunch. There may be no working tavernas or facilities along this route, so it is important that everyone brings their own food and sufficient water for the entire day.

After the break we return along the same route towards Paltsi, monitoring conditions and the group’s pace. The day is balanced – shorter distance, but focused on technique, calmness and quality time on the water.

In the evening we return to Milina, where we end the day with dinner in a traditional taverna. The maritime atmosphere, simple local dishes and the peaceful rhythm of the village form the perfect conclusion to another full day along the shores of Pelion.

Paddling distance for the day: 12 km

Difficulty level according to distance: 3 out of 4

Plan B – Circumnavigation of Trikeri Island and Πυθού Island

If on any of the days conditions on the eastern coast are not suitable for sea kayaking, we switch to an alternative route in more protected waters – a circumnavigation of the islands Trikeri and Πυθού, located in the calm gulf opposite southern Pelion.

Trikeri Island is small, inhabited and extremely authentic, preserving the spirit of old fishing communities. Stone houses, a small harbour and the absence of cars create the feeling of a place where time has stopped. Its shores are a sequence of pebble beaches, small coves and crystal-clear waters – ideal for relaxed paddling and snorkeling.

Πυθού Island, located near Trikeri, is completely uninhabited and even wilder. It impresses with its rugged terrain, clean waters and total absence of human interference. It is a place best understood from the sea – silence, transparency and full harmony with the water.

We organise a transfer to the port of Alopoporos, where we unload the kayaks and head out onto the water towards Trikeri Island. With the first strokes we enter a calm marine area, sheltered from waves and wind, ideal for a fulfilling day on the water.

During the circumnavigation we will stop at three wild beaches scattered along the shores of the two islands. Each break offers opportunities for swimming, snorkeling and enjoying the crystal-clear waters and tranquil atmosphere characteristic of the region.

The tour ends at the harbour of Trikeri Island, where we will stop at one of the local tavernas. Here the pace slows, and attention turns to simple, authentic Greek cuisine and the feeling of a place preserved far from mass tourism.

In the evening we return to Milina, where we finish the day with dinner in a traditional taverna. The maritime atmosphere, simple local dishes and peaceful village rhythm form the natural end to another fulfilling day along the shores of Pelion.

Paddling distance for the day: approx. 15 km

Difficulty level according to distance: 3 out of 4

Training in the Gulf of Volos and departure

We gather at 09:00 by the kayaks. This is our final day and it is dedicated to short, focused paddling and practical training in the gulf. Today's session includes:

Fundamentals and boat control

✅ correct entering and exiting the kayak from shore and shallow water;

✅ effective forward and backward paddling with proper body posture;

✅ stopping techniques and controlled speed reduction;

✅ course adjustment and directional changes.

Maneuvering and stability

✅ sideways paddling (draw stroke);

✅ maintaining stability through low brace and high brace;

✅ basic techniques for preventing capsizing.

Rescue techniques

✅ self-rescue – re-entering the kayak after capsizing;

✅ assisted rescue – partner rescue between two kayakers.

The training is carried out primarily on single sea kayaks, allowing each technique to be performed realistically, with correct dynamics and safety.
Those who prefer not to participate in the practical session may observe from a boat or remain on the beach.

Completion, preparation and departure

At 11:00 we return to the campsite. Together we clean the equipment, organise the gear and load the kayaks onto the trailers.
Around 14:00 we depart back to Bulgaria.
Estimated arrival at the “Vasil Levski” Stadium in Sofia – around 23:00.

✅ FULL FIVE DAYS of sea kayaking at the foot of Pelion.

✅ High-class single kayak fitted to your size (or double kayak upon explicit preference)

✅ Modern lightweight carbon paddle

✅ High-class PALM personal flotation device

✅ Spray skirt (nylon or neoprene according to preference)

✅ Water sports helmet (if needed)

✅ Professional kayak guide with extensive sea kayaking experience and all required certifications:

- Sea kayaking, kayak leader, first aid, risk management and open-water safety, navigation

✅ Briefings and training throughout the entire event

✅ Photos along the routes – taken by the team

For your comfort on land we provide:

✅ Tables, chairs and a canopy (if needed)

✅ Gas barbecue, gas stove, electric kettle

✅ Automatic coffee machine with unlimited coffee included

✅ Mobile fridge and ice machine

✅ Cutlery, dishes and cups

✅ Consumables: kitchen rolls, foil, trash bags, etc.

❌ Overnight stays at Olizon Camping

❌ The announced price does not include transport.

Participants may travel completely free of charge with the transport vehicles we use for carrying the kayaks and equipment (until all 23 seats are filled), or, if preferred, travel with their own transport.

❌ Food, drinks and other personal expenses

❌ Personal equipment listed in the “Equipment” section

❌ Rental of a tent and inflatable mattress

❌ Health insurance for the duration of the event

Price: 4–6 BGN per person.

It can be purchased online here: http://bit.ly/3MuEGl8

The insurance is paid directly to the insurer.

We also recommend purchasing a TRAVEL CANCELLATION insurance: https://bit.ly/3T6fmFb

How to get to Olizon Camping?

You can travel completely free of charge with us, using the transport vehicles we use for transporting the kayak equipment, until all 23 available seats are filled, or you may travel with your own transport if you prefer.

Once the capacity of 23 seats is reached, participation is possible only with your own transport, without any change in the event price.

Luggage – what to bring

✅ Backpack or duffel bag with personal items (large, bulky suitcases are not allowed)

✅ Tent (if you will be camping)

✅ Food and drinks for your stay

✅ You do not need to bring tables, chairs or additional camping equipment – we provide them.

Departure and return

Departure: Sofia – the parking area in front of the main entrance of the National Stadium “Vasil Levski”

Return: at the same location

⚠️ We do not offer pick-up or drop-off at personal addresses.

Accommodation – Olizon Camping

Price per night:

– 8 EUR per person per night

– 7 EUR per tent

The accommodation fees are paid directly to the campsite management.

The campsite does not offer hotel accommodation (rooms/bungalows).

Meals at the campsite

We have provided a fully equipped field kitchen, utensils and the option for group cooking.

We recommend bringing food at least for the first day, as we arrive early in the morning and begin with an active program.

Meal options

✅ Cooking with the group at the camp

✅ Eating in local taverns along the route

✅ Purchasing products from local shops

✅ Preparing fresh fish or seafood on the barbecue

Storage and shopping

✅ A fridge in the bus for perishable foods

✅ Refrigerators at the campsite for your use

✅ Coffee available at any time

☕ A coffee machine with unlimited and free coffee for all participants

During kayak routes

✅ Bring dry food and sandwiches; during each briefing we will inform you whether there are taverns or shops along the route.

✅ Bring enough water according to your personal needs, but no less than 2 liters.

🌊 Meals are entirely your choice — cook with us, try the local cuisine, or combine both!