The Pozar baths with children: what you need to know

The Pozar thermal baths, near Aridaia, are 44 km from Palaios Agios Athanasios. The water comes out at 37 degrees all year, so you can bathe outdoors even when it is snowing. They are open every day, winter and summer.

Why children love it. The natural pools under the waterfalls are shallow and pleasantly warm, so children can play safely. The gorge around them, with the river and the trees, makes the trip feel more like an adventure than a spa.

Opening hours. The outdoor natural pools (Waterfall 1) and the Alexandreio centre with its indoor pools open at 07:00 and close at 02:00, or 04:00 on Saturdays and holidays. Waterfall 2, the old hydrotherapy centre with the hammam, and the open-air hydrotherapy close at 21:00.

When to go. Early in the morning or on a weekday. Winter weekends get busy from midday. Book the private indoor pools in advance.

What to bring. Swimwear, towels, flip-flops for the pebbles and paths, warm clothes for afterwards and a change of clothes for the children.

Make a day of it. The route passes close to Edessa, so the drive back can include a stop at the waterfalls. For a full plan, see a weekend in Palaios Agios Athanasios.

Sources: loutrapozar.com.gr (opening hours). The baths can be reached on +30 2384 091 300.