Youli and Lefteris have left behind the bustling city of Thessaloniki to live—quite literally—at the edge of nowhere. They have settled in a tiny village of only 50 residents, nestled in the lush foothills of the Krousia mountains, marking the natural border between Serres and Kilkis.
The village, named Theodorio, meaning “God’s gift,” may not appear on many maps, but it stands at the end of a journey through the “Wild West” of Serres. The area captivates visitors with its untamed beauty, where horses, cows, and goats roam freely through the fertile plains.
About a year ago, Youli Pilpilidou and Lefteris Eleftheriadis, partners in both life and work, made the bold decision to leave behind the fast pace of Thessaloniki and move permanently to this remote village. Though the decision wasn’t easy, it has proven rewarding. With passion and dedication, they built “Pirpirimi,” a traditional tavern that serves not only delicious food but also hosts live music and cultural events, drawing visitors from the surrounding region.
From Sweden to Serres
Youli, who was born and raised in Sweden, has roots in Theodorio, where she spent her childhood summers. She always felt a strong emotional bond with the village but never imagined she would live there permanently. However, the COVID-19 pandemic changed everything. “During the lockdown, Lefteris and I found ourselves ‘trapped’ in the village for an extended period. We enjoyed the slower pace of life compared to the city, and since we could work remotely, we decided to make Theodorio our permanent home,” Youli explains.
Lefteris adds, “We wanted to create a landmark in the village, something that would attract visitors and put the area, especially with Lake Kerkini nearby, on the tourist map.”
Pirpirimi: Like a Movie Set
Pirpirimi, which locals call the well-known herb purslane, began as a simple café but quickly transformed into a gourmet hotspot. Using local ingredients, including buffalo meat and the famous Tzoumagia sausages, the tavern offers a unique culinary experience. Stepping inside feels like entering a scene from a movie by Theo Angelopoulos—time seems to slow down, transporting you to another era.
Though Theodorio may seem remote, it’s only 6 km away from Rodopoli, a larger village that serves as the commercial hub of the area. The village used to be a thoroughfare, connecting Serres with Kilkis and Thessaloniki until the 1970s when new roads shifted traffic elsewhere. Remnants of its past, like trenches and machine-gun nests from World War I, still dot the landscape, now hidden among dense forests.
Despite the poor road conditions, the journey is worth it. “We often see cars and motorcycles with foreign license plates coming down from the mountains, having heard about the scenic route,” Youli says, urging local authorities to improve the roads that connect Serres and Kilkis.
A Paradise for Nature Lovers
Surrounded by the majestic Krousia mountains, Theodorio is a paradise for hiking enthusiasts. The low altitudes and accessible forest paths make it an ideal destination for families and nature lovers. One trail leads to “Mpania,” natural pools formed by mountain streams. During the rainy season, the water takes on a brownish hue from the mud, but the scene remains breathtaking.
“We aim to turn Theodorio into a destination for people seeking outdoor adventures. The next step is to clear old, overgrown trails,” says Lefteris, highlighting the area’s potential for eco-tourism. The village is even part of the European long-distance trail E6, which runs from Finland to Samothrace.
Bellekroussia Festival: A Celebration of Nature
To showcase the area’s natural beauty, Pirpirimi is hosting the “Bellekroussia Festival” in the “Wild West” of Serres, featuring a live performance by Philippos Pliatsikas and Vaggelis Germanos on Saturday, June 3, 2023. “This festival is an ode to nature’s beauty, a call to hope, and a tribute to the future of our border regions,” says Youli enthusiastically.
