Driving up to Voras in snow: routes and tips
Which road to take from Edessa, how many kilometres it is and what to carry in winter.
Palaios Agios Athanasios is 33 km from Edessa, and the Kaimaktsalan ski centre is another 17 km further up. From Thessaloniki to the ski centre is about 139 km.
The main route. From Edessa, follow the road towards Florina – Kastoria. After about 18 km, turn right towards Arnissa – Palaios Agios Athanasios. This road is cleared of snow first, which makes it the safest choice in winter.
The alternative. From Edessa towards Lykoi and Kerasia, then 22 km to the ski centre. It is shorter but is cleared second, so after a snowfall take the main route.
What to carry. Snow chains, and practise fitting them before you leave home. A full tank, because there are no petrol stations on the mountain. Warm clothes and water in case the road closes for a while.
Before you set off. Check the forecast and ask about the road: the ski centre answers on +30 23810 32000. Travel in daylight: check-in at Forest House and Nest Suite is 15:00 to 18:00, and the drive up is much easier before dark.
When you arrive. Both properties have free private parking on the grounds, and an electric car charger on request.
Sources: xionodromika.gr (routes and snow-clearing priority), meteo.gr (distance from Thessaloniki).