The first mag of the season has hit shops, which means some new Print's Not Dead features online for all that juicy content that we couldn't fit in the mag, and a reminder that print's not dead!
We have a new page in the mag where we shed some light on places to snowboard that are often overlooked by the media. The goal is to enlighten you on local scenes that are no less radical for being tiny. First up is the ancient land of Hellas, which you probably know as Greece. It's a totally original experience to go snowboarding in Greece, so head there with your homies for your next shredventure!
Airport to Snow:
Renting a car will keep things simple. Otherwise, after landing take the metro (Proastiakos) from the airport to Syntagma, then a bus to Arachova (3 hours) to get to Parnassos. Another option is taking a bus to Kalavryta (3:30 hours). Buses to the closer resorts are with Klaoudatos Ski Bus, and you can hop on one in many different spots around Athens.
When:
Late January to end of March, but you will have to visit the Oracle of Delphi for an in-depth and precise snow forecast.
Powder:
Kalavryta is good for freeriding when there's a lot of snow. You'll need local assistance in Parnassos to find good spots. Vasilitsa in northern Greece can get pretty deep but it's very far from Athens, albeit closer to Thessaloniki (second biggest city).
Park:
Best for park is Vasilitsa, Parnassos and Kalavryta all have parks but don't expect anything special.
Jib City:
On the coldest, snowiest days, usually in mid-February, check out Parnitha in the northern suburbs of Athens. It's a big hill which sets up a little park. Plus there are lots of jibs around there in abandoned hotels and even tree runs with jibs. Bribe some locals to take you there.
How much:
30 – 35 euros on average for a day pass at a resort.
Avalanche Danger:
Worry more about being caught in an avalanche of Tzatziki.
Check out some N.D.K. riders scoring some fresh mountain feta last year in the hills Kalavryta: