Early autumn in Pelion possesses its own special beauty. The foliage sings its swan song in a kaleidoscope of variegated colours, turning a walk in the woods into a feast for the eyes. It's the season for chestnuts and walnuts – and should you fail to notice, the squirrels, busy amongst the trees, will certainly remind you!

Mid-September to mid-October is arguably the best time for walking and hiking holidays. The temperature is quite pleasant, and the sea often remains clean and inviting for a dip. The general atmosphere across the region becomes more peaceful and relaxed as most Greek visitors have departed for their hometowns, leaving Pelion largely to foreign travellers.

Late October and November can bring wetter and cooler weather, though quite often there are long spells of warm, sunny days. Dedicated Pelion fans return to their favourite haunts for long weekends, eager to re-immerse themselves in the purity and beauty of the mountain and sea, stock up on apples, chestnuts, and walnuts for winter, and perhaps barbecue a steak or two over glowing coals in the fireplace while discussing upcoming ski plans.

Spring arrives a little later in Pelion, particularly at higher altitudes. It usually sets in from mid-April and throughout May, when you can virtually watch buds turn into blossoms, and blossoms into leaves and fruits. The mountain, now stripped of snow, dons its green outfit and compliments the scenery with numerous wildflowers.

The unspoilt villages and hamlets open up to fragrant air and light. Inhabitants tend to their gardens and flower pots, preparing for the great festivities of Greek Easter – a time when locals and visitors alike feast for three days, revelling in song and dance under clear blue skies and soothing sunshine.

Late April, May, June, September, and October are prime times for holidaymakers keen on walking and hiking. The endless network of old mule tracks and paths is inviting and challenging; it promises healthy exercise and pleasant walking experiences through gorgeous countryside, often with the chance to rest on a lovely beach and take a quick dip in the turquoise sea – perhaps while fresh fish cooks on charcoal at a nearby taverna.

Summer is paradise come to Pelion. Nature is at its vibrant best: lush vegetation, abundant flowers, all sorts of fruit ripening on the trees, bees flitting between aromatic herbs and blooming honeysuckle, and nightingales serenading the huge full moon. The mountain and the sea vie for visitors' favour, though many happily relish both a cool walk in the hills and a daily swim at one of the beautiful beaches.

For those seeking organised sightseeing, a variety of options exist. Join a day cruise in the Pagasitikos Gulf, take an excursion around the Pelion villages, or venture further afield to the spectacular monasteries of Meteora. You can also attend various cultural events such as folk dances, musical performances, and local festivals (panigiria).

In the evenings, enjoy yourself at traditional tavernas and relaxed cafes, take a stroll along the promenade in coastal spots, or simply sit on the balcony, veranda, or garden of your accommodation, sipping a drink and feeling the night air as your senses feast on the fragrance of gardenias and evening primrose. Indeed, there is no shortage of ways to enjoy Pelion in the summer.

Winter is the time when Pelion's villages, unspoilt and pretty as ever, emerge from their leafy summer cloaks and become more visible. Weather conditions vary: there can be long periods of beautiful sunlit days with mild temperatures, but also spells of rain or snow. It's possible to experience bright sunshine near the sea and dense mist at higher elevations simultaneously.

Regardless of the weather, there are plenty of ways to occupy yourself. During a leisurely stroll or a bracing hike, whilst skiing (at the nearby ski centre), or even just looking out of your window, you can enjoy views of snow-clad peaks, the foaming sea waves in the distance, lush green grass, dense mist rising from ravines, shiny ivy embracing denuded trees under strong sunshine, and holly trees dressed for Christmas. On rare occasions, you might take in several of these contrasting scenes at once.

When venturing out isn't appealing, it's time to enjoy a drink or two and the company of friends and family while chestnuts roast in the fireplace, read a favourite book, tell spooky stories, or simply snuggle under the blankets. As night falls and mist swirls, you might even be lucky enough to imagine spotting hamadryads and gnomes preparing to retire into the woods... Winter in Pelion holds a quiet, cosy magic all its own.