The meadows of Portoulion

They nest in the heart of the University Forest of Pertouli, in South Pindos, between Elati and Pertouli. They are located at an altitude of 1150 metres, between the Koziakas and Boundura mountains and crossed by the Xeria River, a tributary of the Aspropotamos River. They are 42 km from Trikala, 42 km from Kalambaka, 23 km from Pyli, 9 km from Elati and 6 km from Pertouli.

The landscape is fairytale-like and captivating. Endless meadows surrounded by fir trees, alpine ponds, wooden bridges, picturesque little churches, horses running carefree and well-bred cows grazing lazily, with the surrounding peaks in the background. Sometimes lush and green and myrobic, with their running waters glistening under the sun, and sometimes all-white and silent. Surrendered to the moods of the seasons which put their own touch on the work of art of nature.

Around them stretches the University Forest of Pertoulion, one of the most impressive forests in Greece, with a rich flora. The dominant native species is the spruce, while beech, oak, cedar, maple, ash and pine are found sporadically in small clusters. It is the habitat of many mammals such as the brown bear, the wolf, the wildcat, the fox, the deer and the hare. It is also home to many species of birds, the most common being the mountain partridge, the snipe and the hawk. It is administered by the Aristotle University of Thessaloniki and a department of the School of Forestry and Natural Environment operates in its premises in Pertouli.