If there is one hidden gem in the Epirus region of Greece that balances tranquility with modern luxury, it is Perdika. Tucked away between the bustling towns of Parga and Sivota, this area offers a serenity that is hard to find elsewhere.

But a destination is only as good as where you lay your head at night. During my recent trip, I checked into Ninemia Luxury Hotel, and it wasn’t just a place to sleep, it was the highlight of the trip.

If you are planning a trip to Thesprotia and wondering where to stay, here is why Ninemia deserves to be at the top of your list.

A View That Heals the Soul

The first thing that hits you when you enter your room at Ninemia is the view. The hotel is perfectly positioned to offer a panoramic look at the Ionian Sea.

The prompt for this trip was “relaxation,” and the scenery delivered exactly that. Sitting on the private balcony with a morning coffee, watching the blue horizon, was arguably the most calming experience of the year. The sunsets here are nothing short of breathtaking, painting the sky in hues of orange and purple that reflect off the water. If you are looking for an Instagram-worthy backdrop, this is it.

Immaculate Cleanliness & Modern Comfort

We’ve all had that moment of hesitation when opening a hotel room door, hoping it looks like the pictures. At Ninemia, reality was actually better than the photos.

The room was super clean, and I don’t use that term lightly. From the crisp, high-quality linens to the sparkling bathroom fixtures, the attention to hygiene and detail was obvious. The design is modern and minimalist, creating a clutter-free environment that helps you decompress the moment you walk in.

It is rare to find accommodation that feels this fresh and well-maintained. It felt less like a hotel room and more like a brand-new luxury apartment.

Hospitality That Feels Like Home

While the view and the room were five-star, what truly sets Ninemia Luxury Hotel apart is the host.

In an era of contactless check-ins and impersonal service, the host at Ninemia brought the warmth of genuine Greek hospitality. From the moment we arrived, we were treated with kindness and genuine care. The host went above and beyond to ensure we had everything we needed, offering excellent recommendations for local tavernas and nearby beaches (like the famous Karavostasi Beach).

It wasn’t just “good service”; it was a helpful, friendly presence that made us feel safe and welcome.

Why You Should Visit Perdika

Staying at Ninemia puts you in the perfect spot to explore the region. You are just minutes away from:

• Karavostasi Beach: Known for its deep, crystal-clear waters.
• Arillas Beach: A great sandy spot for families.
• Parga & Sivota: Both are a short drive away for a day trip, allowing you to return to the quiet of Perdika at night.

The Verdict

If you are looking for a chaotic party hotel, this isn’t it. But if you are searching for a luxury escape in Perdika where the rooms are spotless, the views are restorative, and the owners treat you like family, Ninemia Luxury Hotel is the only choice.

It is the kind of place you check out of and immediately start planning when you can return.

The post Ninemia Luxury Hotel Stay in Perdika, Greece appeared first on Alexios Ntounas Photography.

If you are looking for a photography destination that offers stunning natural beauty, diverse landscapes, and rich history, look no further than the Snaefellsnes Peninsula in Iceland. This small region, located on the west coast of the island, is home to some of the most iconic and photogenic spots in the country. In this guide, I will share with you my tips and tricks for capturing the best shots of some of the most amazing locations on the peninsula.

Kirkjufell mountain

Kirkjufell, or “Church Mountain”, is a 463-meter-high hill that rises from the sea like a sharp arrowhead. It is often called the most photographed mountain in Iceland, and for a good reason. Its unique shape, coastal location, and isolation from other mountains make it a perfect subject for photography. You can photograph Kirkjufell from different angles and distances, but the most popular spot is near the waterfall Kirkjufellsfoss, where you can frame the mountain with the cascading water and the green fields. The best time to photograph Kirkjufell is during the golden hour, when the sun casts a warm glow on the mountain and the sky. If you are lucky, you might also catch the northern lights dancing above the mountain at night.

Malarrif lighthouse

Malarrif Lighthouse is a white and red beacon that stands on the southern tip of the peninsula, overlooking the Atlantic Ocean. It was built in 1917 and is still operational today. The lighthouse is surrounded by lava fields, cliffs, and beaches, creating a dramatic contrast between the man-made structure and the natural scenery. You can photograph the lighthouse from different perspectives, such as from the beach, from the cliff, or from the road. The lighthouse is especially photogenic during sunrise and sunset, when the light creates a colorful backdrop for the white tower. You can also visit the nearby visitor center, where you can learn more about the history and culture of the area.

Black church of Budir

The black church of Budir is a small wooden church that dates back to 1703. It is painted black and has a white cross on the roof, making it stand out from the surrounding landscape. The church is located in a remote area, near a hotel and a lava field. It is one of the three black churches in Iceland and has become a popular attraction for photographers and tourists. The church is a great example of minimalistic architecture and photography, as it creates a striking contrast with the green grass, the blue sky, and the white snow. You can photograph the church from different angles and distances, but the most common one is from the front, where you can capture the church and the mountains in the background.

Londrangar basalt cliffs

Londrangar Basalt Cliffs are two rock pinnacles that protrude from the ocean, west of Malarrif. They are the remnants of an ancient volcanic crater that has been eroded by the sea over thousands of years. The taller pinnacle is 75 meters high and the shorter one is 61 meters high. They are often compared to a castle or a cathedral, due to their shape and size. The cliffs are a haven for seabirds, such as puffins, fulmars, and kittiwakes, which nest on the rocks and fly around them. You can photograph the cliffs from different viewpoints, such as from the road, from the beach, or from the hiking trail that leads to them. The best time to photograph the cliffs is during the golden hour, when the light enhances the texture and color of the rocks.

Gatklettur rock arch

Gatklettur, or “Hellnar Arch”, is a natural stone arch that is formed by the wave action on the basalt rocks. It is located between the villages of Arnarstapi and Hellnar, on the south coast of the peninsula. The arch is a stunning example of the power and beauty of nature, as it shows the swirling patterns and shapes of the rocks. You can photograph the arch from different angles and distances, but the most popular one is from the beach, where you can capture the arch and the ocean in the same frame. The best time to photograph the arch is during low tide, when the water level is lower and the arch is more visible. You can also photograph the arch during sunrise and sunset, when the light creates a magical atmosphere.

Skardsvik beach

Skardsvik beach is a rare sight in Iceland, as it boasts golden sand instead of the usual black. The beach is located on the northwestern tip of the Snaefellsnes Peninsula, near the village of Ondverdarnes. The contrast between the bright blue water, the yellow sand, and the dark lava cliffs creates a stunning scenery that attracts photographers and nature lovers. The beach is also a historical site, as it contains a cave that was used as a burial place in the past. Skardsvik beach is a hidden gem that offers a glimpse of the diversity and beauty of Iceland’s landscapes.

Djupalnssandur beach

Djupalnssandur beach is a black-sand beach on the Snaefellsnes peninsula, where the remains of a British trawler that wrecked in 1948 can still be seen. The beach is also known for its four lifting stones, which were used to test the strength of fishermen in the past. The stones have different weights and names, and only the strongest men could lift the heaviest one. The beach offers a scenic view of the ocean and the nearby cliffs, as well as a glimpse of the history and culture of the area.

Conclusion

The Snaefellsnes Peninsula is a photographer’s paradise, as it offers a variety of locations and subjects to capture. Whether you are a beginner or a professional, you will find something that suits your style and interest. The peninsula is also a great place to explore and enjoy the nature, culture, and history of Iceland. I hope this guide has inspired you to visit and photograph the Snaefellsnes Peninsula.

Here are some of my best photos from Iceland if you want to have a look!

The post Photographing the Beauty of Snaefellsnes Peninsula in Iceland appeared first on Alexios Ntounas Photography.

Thessaloniki is a city that offers many magical moments, but one of the most unforgettable ones is watching the sun set over the Thermaic Gulf and Mount Olympus. Whether you prefer a romantic, relaxing, or adventurous experience, there is a perfect spot for you to enjoy the sunset in Thessaloniki. In this blog post, I will share with you some of the best sunset spots in Thessaloniki, Greece.

The Waterfront of Thessaloniki

The waterfront of Thessaloniki is the most popular and accessible place to watch the sunset in the city. It stretches for about 5 kilometers, from the Port of Thessaloniki to the Concert Hall, and it is divided into two sections: the old waterfront and the new waterfront. The old waterfront is the historical and cultural heart of the city, where you can find the emblematic White Tower, the Aristotelous Square, and many restaurants and cafes. The new waterfront is the modern and artistic part of the city, where you can find 13 themed pocket parks, the Umbrellas of Zongolopoulos, and the Music Hall.

The waterfront of Thessaloniki offers a panoramic view of the Thermaic Gulf and Mount Olympus, as well as the city skyline. You can walk, bike, or skate along the promenade, or sit on a bench, a wooden platform, or the grass and enjoy the scenery. The waterfront is also a lively and vibrant place, where you can listen to street musicians, watch street performers, or join the locals in their evening stroll. The waterfront of Thessaloniki is a must-see for any visitor, and a great place to capture the beauty of the sunset.

The Upper Town or Ano Poli

If you are looking for a more historical and authentic experience, you should head to the Upper Town or Ano Poli of Thessaloniki. This is the oldest and most preserved part of the city, where you can find traditional houses, narrow streets, Byzantine churches, and Ottoman monuments. The Upper Town is also the highest point of the city, offering a stunning view of the Thermaic Gulf, the city center, and the surrounding mountains.

One of the best places to watch the sunset in the Upper Town is the Trigonion Tower, a 15th-century fortification that overlooks the city and the sea. Another great spot is the Eptapyrgio Castle, a Byzantine and Ottoman fortress that also serves as a cultural center and a museum. You can also explore the picturesque neighborhoods of the Upper Town, such as Ano Ladadika, Kastra, and Vlatadon, and discover hidden gems and local taverns. The Upper Town of Thessaloniki is a place that transports you to another era, and a perfect spot to enjoy the sunset in a serene and romantic atmosphere.

Nea Krini

If you are looking for a different and elegant experience, you should visit Nea Krini, a district of Kalamaria, in the eastern part of the city. Nea Krini is about 12 kilometers away from the city center, and it is known for its marina, its restaurants, and its coffee shops. Nea Krini is a place where you can enjoy the inspiring views and flavors of the sea, as well as some of the best fish taverns in the city.

One of the best places to watch the sunset in Nea Krini is the hill next to Kiverneio-Palataki where you can enjoy the sun setting behind Olympus Mountain from an elevated view. You can also visit the marina, where you can see the sailboats and yachts against the colorful sky. Moreover, you can walk along the coastal avenue of Aretsou, where you can find many cafes and bars with a fantastic view of the sea. Nea Krini is a place that combines the modern and the traditional, and a perfect spot to enjoy the sunset in a stylish and relaxing way.

Thermi Dam

One less known place to watch the sunset is the Thermi Dam located a few kilometers outside of Thessaloniki. If you climb up the little hill at the top of the dam you will be awarded with a breathtaking view of the Thermaic Gulf, the city and the Olympus range. You can also reach the spot easily by driving to the top and walking a few meters towards the edge of the hill.

Conclusion

Thessaloniki is a city that offers many attractions and activities, but one of the most amazing ones is watching the sunset. The city has many spots where you can enjoy the sunset, from the waterfront to the mountain, and from the historical to the modern. Each spot has its own charm and character, and you can choose the one that fits your preferences and mood. Watching the sunset in Thessaloniki is a wonderful and unforgettable experience, and you should not miss it.

You can also check my collection with photographs of Thessaloniki if you are interested! Thank you for reading, and happy sunset watching!

The post The Best Sunset Spots in Thessaloniki, Greece appeared first on Alexios Ntounas Photography.

The captivating little moon sculpture, also known as “Feggaraki stin Akti” or “Moon on the Shore,” was crafted by the talented artist Pavlos Vasiliadis. This crescent moon-shaped masterpiece rises approximately 4 meters above the waves, infusing the seafront of Thessaloniki, Greece, with an enchanting artistic allure. Constructed from corrosion-resistant metal, the sculpture ensures durability and resilience against the elements, solidifying its place as an enduring symbol of the city. Drawing the attention of both locals and tourists, the little moon sculpture stands as a testament to the thriving creativity and artistic expression in this vibrant city.

The sculpture was initially unveiled in Thessaloniki during the Dimitria festival in 1995, towering at the Makedonia Palace. It then graced the coastline of Sani in Halkidiki from 1998 to 2000 before returning to Thessaloniki in 2000, this time adorning the Aristotelous Square. In 2007, it embarked on a sojourn to Saint Tropez, only to reclaim its place in Thessaloniki in 2010, back at its original location in front of the wooden deck at Makedonia Palace. Unfortunately, unidentified individuals managed to dislodge and discard it into the sea, prompting a recovery effort by divers. Ultimately, in 2019, the decision was made to reposition the sculpture, this time within the sea itself.

To this day, tourists and passers-by can and do admire the sculpture as they enjoy their walk on the seafront of Thessaloniki. The sculpture is reflected in the sea and is beautifully illuminated at night as can be seen in the photos.

The post Feggaraki stin Akti Sculpture in Thessaloniki, Greece appeared first on Alexios Ntounas Photography.

Iceland, a Nordic island nation known for its breathtaking landscapes, has become a popular destination for filmmakers seeking unique and otherworldly settings. From volcanic landscapes to majestic waterfalls, Iceland offers a diverse range of locations that have been featured in numerous films and TV shows. In this blog post, we will take you on a virtual tour of some of the most iconic film locations in Iceland.

Reynisfjara Black Sand Beach

One of the most striking film locations in Iceland is Reynisfjara Black Sand Beach. With its dramatic black sand, towering basalt columns, and crashing waves, this location has been featured in several films, including scenes from the popular TV series “Game of Thrones.” It provides a hauntingly beautiful backdrop that adds an air of mystery and intrigue to any production.

Skógafoss Waterfall

Skógafoss Waterfall is a majestic cascade that has graced the silver screen in films such as “Thor: The Dark World” and “The Secret Life of Walter Mitty.” With its powerful rush of water plunging down a 60-meter cliff, this iconic waterfall offers a dramatic backdrop for any cinematic production. The mist created by the waterfall adds an enchanting touch to the surrounding landscape.

Kirkjufell Mountain

Kirkjufell Mountain, also known as “The Mountain Shaped Like an Arrowhead,” has become an iconic film location in Iceland. It has been featured in the hit TV series “Game of Thrones” and is instantly recognizable to fans of the show. The mountain’s distinctive shape and picturesque surroundings make it a favorite spot for photographers and filmmakers alike.

Dettifoss Waterfall

Dettifoss Waterfall is one of the most powerful waterfalls in Europe. It has been featured in movies like “Prometheus” and “The Secret Life of Walter Mitty.” Located in Vatnajökull National Park, this majestic waterfall provides a breathtaking backdrop for any cinematic production.

Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon

Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon is a mesmerizing natural wonder that has captivated filmmakers from around the world. This stunning location, with its floating icebergs and crystal-clear waters, has been featured in movies like “Batman Begins” and “Lara Croft: Tomb Raider.” The ethereal beauty of the lagoon creates a surreal atmosphere that transports viewers to another realm.

These are just a few examples of the stunning film locations that Iceland has to offer. Whether you’re a film enthusiast or simply a nature lover, exploring these enchanting landscapes will leave you in awe of Iceland’s natural beauty. So, grab your camera and embark on a cinematic adventure through the captivating film locations of Iceland!

Here is a collection with my favorite photographs from Iceland if you want to have a look!

The post Exploring the Breathtaking Film Locations of Iceland appeared first on Alexios Ntounas Photography.

The White Tower of Thessaloniki is a reference point and symbol of the city. It stands on Thessaloniki’s waterfront as a symbol of strength and resilience for both locals and visitors. With a height of 33.9 meters (111 feet), it’s easy to see why the tower serves as a landmark for the entire city.

It was constructed around 1535 by the Ottoman Turks who conquered Thessaloniki in 1430. It replaced an older Byzantine fortification that dated back to the 12th century. The tower was originally part of the city walls that protected Thessaloniki from invaders. It was used as a prison, fort, and garrison during the Ottoman occupation. Because of the tortures and mass executions that took place there, it was also known as the Red Tower or Blood Tower. When Thessaloniki was liberated and reunited with the rest of Greece in 1912, the tower was whitewashed.

The White Tower is now a museum devoted to Thessaloniki’s history. There is a small entrance fee of 3€. Inside the tower, visitors can explore several exhibitions about its history and culture. Artifacts from ancient Greek civilization, such as pottery fragments discovered near Mount Olympus, and coins minted during Byzantine times, when Thessaloniki was part of their empire’s territory, are among the exhibits. The exhibits are spread across the six floors of the tower, which are linked by a series of spiral staircases. Climbing to the top floor will reward you with spectacular views of this lovely city, its harbor, Thermaikos Gulf, and even Mt Olympus itself!

Locals enjoy sitting in the area to watch the spectacular sunsets or walking along the city’s promenade. There are also many cafes and restaurants in the area that serve delicious food. Besides, Thessaloniki is a well-known gastronomic destination! The Thessaloniki White Tower is also beautifully illuminated at night, making it an ideal tourist attraction and meeting point.

It’s no surprise that this place draws thousands of tourists each year; not only does it provide great insight into Greek history, but it also provides incredible sights. It’s definitely worth checking out if you’re ever in Thessaloniki!

The post The White Tower of Thessaloniki in Greece appeared first on Alexios Ntounas Photography.

Dettifoss waterfall is the second most powerful waterfall in Europe, located in Vatnajökull National Park in northeast Iceland. The falls are 100 meters (330 feet) wide and drop 44 meters (144 ft). Its water cascades into the Jökulsárgljfur canyon. It is a branch of the Jökulsá á Fjöllum river, which originates in the Vatnajökull glacier. Dettifoss is part of the Diamond Circle, a popular tourist route in North Iceland that circles Hsavk and Lake Mývatn. If you want to visit this magnificent waterfall, Mývatn is a good place to stay.

To get to the east side, take Route 864, an old gravel road with numerous potholes that winds through an alien-like landscape. It takes about 45 minutes to get there from Route 1. A 4×4 vehicle is highly recommended. This road is usually only open during the summer. There is a small parking area at the end of the road. Follow the trail for about 400 meters until you reach the waterfall. You can get really close to the waterfall from here, and you won’t usually have to deal with water spray. The photo above was taken from the east side.

Standing next to this waterfall makes you feel and almost fearful of nature’s raw power as you watch the massive amount of water fall into the canyon river. It’s no surprise that Ridley Scott chose this spectacular scenery as the backdrop for the opening scene of his film Prometheus!

The west side is much more accessible. You exit Route 1 and drive for about 20 minutes on paved Route 862 until you reach the parking lot. There is an upper viewpoint from which to admire the impressive waterfall, or you can follow the path for about 800 meters and get close to the waterfall. When we arrived, it was quite windy, so we had to contend with a lot of spray.

So, if you have the time, I would recommend visiting both sides. It takes about an hour to get from one side to the other. Having said that, if I had to pick just one, I’d say the East side is much more impressive, while the West side is much easier to access!

The post Dettifoss Waterfall in Iceland appeared first on Alexios Ntounas Photography.

Just a few kilometers from Thessaloniki’s city center you can find the beautiful lake of Oreokastro. Between 1999 and 2000, an old garbage dump was converted into this artificial lake. The lake was named after Panagiotis Ishnopoulos, a vice president of the municipality of Oreakstro who came up with the idea and saw it through. The lake is not well known among Thessaloniki residents, so when I learned about it, I decided to pay it a visit.

When you arrive at the location and park your car in the open space, you will notice a couple of benches and a few trees overlooking the larger lake. There is, in fact, a smaller one just behind the main lake. Poplars and pine trees can be found on the lake’s left side. However there is no path on this side. On the left side though, there is a lovely path between the poplars that you can follow. To be honest, the path is only about 200 meters long but it’s pretty nice.

I visited Oreokastro Lake in the autumn, around the middle of October, when the fall colors were starting to appear. I arrived early in the morning, so there was no one else there. The whole place was so serene. There was no wind, so the lake was completely calm. The reflections of the trees in the water were stunning. And when the sun appeared and began glimmering gorgeous golden light on the yellow leaves, the entire scene came to life.

So, if you live in Thessaloniki and want to find a nice park to escape and get close to nature, Oreokastro Lake is a very good option! If you live at the East side of Thessaloniki you might wanna have a look at Thermi Lake!

The post The Artificial Lake of Oreokastro in Thessaloniki appeared first on Alexios Ntounas Photography.

The summer of 2021 was marked by the fire in Evia, Greece’s second-largest island. It was described as one of the greatest ecological disasters in Greek history because it is estimated that over 50,000 hectares of forest burned. The fire began on August 3 in Central Evia. The fire burned everything in its path for ten days in a row. For days, residents, volunteers, and firefighters fought the fire nonstop. The images posted online were reminiscent of the Apocalypse.

I was on vacation at the time in our Halkidiki country house. I frequently go out at night to photograph the Milky Way. One of those nights, I was driving around in my car, looking for an interesting subject to photograph. I noticed a bright laser light in the sky, most likely from a conference center, that I thought would look cool in front of the Milky Way core. So I parked my car and prepared my camera to take some photos. When the first image on my camera’s lcd screen appeared, I noticed a large red mark across the sea. I was taken aback when I realized this was the Evia wildfire.

After a while, as my eyes grew accustomed to the darkness, I was able to see the fire with my own eyes. Massive flames were filling the night sky. I spent the next few hours photographing in awe the Milky Way rising over the wildfire.

In this image, you can see the Pelion villages, the fire in Evia, and the Milky Way running vertically between them.

Moments like these make you realize how insignificant we are in the grand scheme of things, and how we are destroying this beautiful tiny blue dot we call home. Unfortunately, many wildfires are raging across Greece and Southern Europe again this year, in the summer of 2022. Climate change, human negligence, and arsonists are to blame. We must take action before it is too late.

The post Evia Wildfires in the Summer of 2021 and the Milky Way appeared first on Alexios Ntounas Photography.

Photographing a lavender field has been on my bucket list for many years. As a result, when I learned that there were some blooming fields near Thessaloniki, where I currently live, I couldn’t pass it up. I grabbed my camera bag and drove to Mesimeri in search of the perfect lone tree in a lavender field.

Best time to visit the lavender fields of Mesimeri

There are numerous lavender fields in the Mesimeri village area. Mesimeri is less than a half-hour drive from Thessaloniki’s city center. Plant nurseries have recently been established in the area where aromatic and medicinal plants such as lavender are grown. 

Lavender blooms in the early summer and is harvested by the middle of July. Of course, it can vary depending on the weather, so the timing of the full bloom may differ slightly from year to year. The second two weeks of June are probably the best period to visit the area. And, of course, time your visit for sunset or sunrise to get the best light. Just be wary of the bees buzzing around!

Photographing the lavenders

I was fortunate to witness an incredible sunset with beautiful red and magenta tones in the clouds. A lone tree, of course, is an excellent subject for a beautiful landscape photograph. Because the atmosphere was so clear, we could see Mount Olympus, Greece’s highest mountain, in the distance.

Another lone tree stands in a lavender field beneath the waxing crescent moon in the following photo. The moonlight beautifully illuminates the lavenders. The warm colors of the sunset remain visible in the sky. This lavender field is easily accessible because it is located on the main road connecting Mesimeri and Epanomi. It’s the Gresense lavender field. Gresense is an essential oil manufacturing company. So, please be careful not to damage the lavenders while taking pictures in the field!

These images are available as fine art prints if you’d like to hang them on your wall!

Visit alexios-ntounas.pixels.com and use coupon code RYFNXE to get 10% off my markup on all products!

The post The Lavender Fields of Mesimeri in Thessaloniki appeared first on Alexios Ntounas Photography.