|
Location
The area of the village of Petrokerasa, named after a delicious local variety of cherry, is situated about 40 minutes drive from the city of Thessaloniki. The construction of a new direct road, that is scheduled in the year 2005, will halve the distance and travelling time from Thessaloniki to the village. The area is famed for its unique atmosphere, as there are no factories, traffic, or other sources of atmospheric pollution, as well as its lack of humidity and dampness, making for a refreshing climate even when Thessaloniki is sweltering. Access is via a hardtop road in excellent condition, through a pristine forest. Nine kilometres downhill is the village of Zagliveri, where there are two supermarkets and a full complement of stores, as well as three pharmacies, a post office, a regional health centre (actually a small, well-equipped hospital), the area’s police station, tax offices, bank and local municipality.
Petrokerasa, with a permanent population of less than 100, is a beautiful, clean and well-kept village, with an attractive main square, three tavernas, one coffee shop and one cafeteria. Simple food items are available from a small store, but fresh village-baked bread arrives daily, and travelling green-grocers, fishmongers, etc. visit almost daily. Besides its cherries, Petrokerasa is also famous for its excellent “tsipouro”, made from distilled ouzo. There is no crime in the region, guaranteeing a peaceful, laid-back lifestyle. |
|