6x Breakfast

1x Dinner

4x Lunch

Accommodation included: 5 nights

Accommodation: 5 nights in 3*...

Accommodation: 5 nights in 3* hotels or traditional guesthouses

Professional English-speaking tour leader

Not included:

Travel insurance (required)

Mount Taygetos summit Hike (100€/person...

Mount Taygetos summit Hike (100€/person including off-road transfer to/from starting point, qualified mountain guide, snack)

Gratuities

Entry/Admission - Mourtzinos Castle

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Itinerary

Day 1: Arriving in Athens

Stop At: Dimitsana, Dimitsana, Arkadia Region, Peloponnese
Dimitsana is a delightful medieval village built amphitheatrically on two hills at the beginning of the Lousios Gorge, 11km north of Stemnitsa. Dimitsana played a significant role in Greece’s struggle for self-determination in 1821 and the school was an important spawning ground for the ideas leading to the uprisings against the Turks. It is a hikers’ favorite destination and ideal for weekend gateways offering accommodation in hotels and local cuisine in restaurants.

Duration: 1 hour

Stop At: Stemnitsa, Stemnitsa, Arkadia Region, Peloponnese
Stemnitsa is a traditional dorp, built amphitheatrically contemplating the slopes of Mainalon and preserved in an exemplary way. The scenery is truly transcendent as the mountain embraces the stone houses of Stemnitsa along with its visitors. Its castle resembles its long-lasting history. Stemnitsa is the continuum of a village mentioned by Pausanias as Ipsos and it seems that this village managed to survive through time despite the agitations, the revolution, and the difficulties. The first capital of rebellious Greece, it supplied the cause with heroic fighters and supplies. After all, it was the headquarters of Kolokotronis. Nowadays, the Folkloric Museum, the strolls in the well-preserved village and the whereabouts, the relaxation in the protected, picturesque village square have become means of approaching the tranquility of mountain life. The one and only school of silver and gold craftsmanship in Greece is located in this village, where you will discover most creations of excellent art. The tradition was always upholding alive in this village attracting young and creative people to inhabit it and deliver it even better to the next generations.
Duration: 2 hours

Pass By: Mainalo, Mainalo, Arkadia Region, Peloponnese
The Mainalo mountain range is one of the largest and most famous mountain ranges in Greece. Located at the center of the Peloponnese in the jurisdiction of Arkadia, it hosts 50 peaks over 1500m. Even so it has a small highest elevation, that being Ostrakina or Profitis Ilias at 1981m, it has a very high average elevation that being around 1100m. The range, has two distinct sub ranges the East and West. The east boasts some alpine and has the highest elevations whilst the west is purely under the treeline.

Meals included:
• Breakfast
• Dinner
Accommodation included: Overnight stay at a family-run traditional guesthouse.

Day 2: Hiking in Lousios river.

Stop At: Monastery of Timios Prodromos, Akritochori 621 00 Greece
This monastery as a priory monastery was probably built in the mid 16th century. but since the 12th century. flourished in many hermitages district importantly that of John the Baptist. During the Turkish occupation (16th c.) These retreats are united forming the monastery. Since the beginning of the establishment was stavropegic.

During the revolution of 1821, the monastery became a refuge and hospital for the fighters. In 1834 the monastery was dissolved due to a decree dissolving the monasteries, which are below 7 monks. But 1838 repopulated the monastery and became a great physical and spiritual.

Today the monastery operates a painting workshop and sewing holy garments and there is a remarkable collection of about 1000 books. The monastery of Prodromos, continuing the old traditions, a religious and cultural center of the region.
Duration: 30 minutes

Stop At: Kardamili, Kardamili, Messenia Region, Peloponnese
Kardamili is a spectacularly beautiful seaside village located in the Mani, a stunning region in the southern Peloponnese, the coast of Greece defined by travel connoisseurs as the New Côte d'Azur. Set dramatically against a backdrop of crystalline aqua-blue waters, majestic cypress trees, wild olive groves, verdant rolling hills, and distant snowcapped mountains, it is one of the prettiest of villages that overlook the calm seas and splendid sunsets of the Messinian Gulf. 3 hours and 30 minutes' drive from either the capital of Athens or the port of Patras, and just 35 km from the nearby city of Kalamata, it remains one of the south Mediterranean's best-kept secrets: an exclusive, small, unspoiled resort that boasts stately villas, enchanting stone maisonettes, lush gardens, a picturesque harbor, and fantastic beaches.
Duration: 2 hours

Pass By: Mount Taygetos, Kalamata, 241 00 Greece
The mythical mountain Taygetos is the highest mountain in Peloponnese. Beautiful forests, gorges, and ravines shaded by plane trees and flora with countless endemic plants are all features of this landscape that fascinate visitors. The summit, an almost perfect pyramid is considered as a sacred place from ancient times. Ascending to the summit was a very important task in ancient times and still is today. This trip is a remarkable mountain 3-day hiking experience on the European Trail E4 of the Peloponnese. Following the footprints of ancient Spartans, we encounter a scenic hiking trail in stupendous mountain scenery overlooking the sea from the summit at 2407m. One night at a family-run Boutique Guesthouse in the mountainous village of Anavryti. One night at a mountain refuge under the summit.

Pass By: Lousios River, Lousios Gorge, Dimitsana Greece
Lousios is a Peloponnesian river and a tributary of Alfeios. It is a relatively small river, approximately 25 kilometers long. However, the landscape that surrounds it on both banks is magical. The name of the river has ancient origins. It is said that it was given this name because the newborn Zeus was bathed (Louzo=bathing) in its waters by the nymphs Theisoa, Neda and Agno.

The gorge is ideal for a plethora of activities, like rafting and kayaking. It is a particularly impetuous river and is certainly not recommended for beginners. However, the crossing of the gorge is something suitable for everyone and a truly unique experience.

Meals included:
• Breakfast
• Lunch: Lunch will be a picnic
Accommodation included: Overnight stay at a family-run traditional guesthouse or a 3-star hotel.

Day 3: Hiking in Viros Gorge

Pass By: Viros, Viros, Corfu, Ionian Islands
The Viros Gorge is a sublime experience. Descending from the foot of Profitis Ilias it disgorges itself into the sea at Kardamili. Although the gorge is usually bone dry - in full spate the torrent is reported to be awesome and in winter flood it can threaten the bridge at Kardamili and low lying local houses. Further upstream around the Moni Sotiros the water is diverted into rather intrusive black pipes that supply the villages with water, which can run perilously low in high summer.

The gorge goes through a number of defiles where the limestone cliffs tower above, stalactites hanging like lost wax from lofty caves and creating perches for birds nests. At intervals, it widens out every so often into steep-sided but wooded green valleys. There is a marked path but the going is poor with rocks and boulders dotted with Oleander bushes to negotiate - so those with a desire to wear high heeled patent leather slingbacks may soon regret their decision. The occasional rock pool remains until May, seething with tadpoles, and the dry remains of waterfalls have to be scrambled over.

Stop At: Mourtzinos Castle, Old Town, Kardamili 240 22 Greece
Situated in Kardamyli is one of the many remarkable towers found scattered across the wider area of Mani. It is the tower of Troupakis Mourtzinos, an important captain of the Greek Revolution of 1821. It was built in 1807 and is an area worth visiting.

The Mourtzinos Tower is essentially a fortified complex, which includes various buildings. Upon entering, the visitor comes across the church of Aghios Spyridon, which was the private church of the Mourtzinos family, something which signified their high financial and social status. There is also the so-called tower house, or ontas, where the lodgings were located, which had a defensive purpose, as well as the main tower, which was the ultimate refuge in case of a siege. The tower complex also included a cistern, vegetable garden, olive mill, as well as a workshop area that has been identified as a forge, the only one discovered so far in the area of Mani.

Troupakis, or Mourtzinos, was a famous captain from the region of Mani, who played an important role during the 1821 Greek Revolution. His family’s castle is located in Kardamyli and it’s a fortified complex estimated to have been built in 1807.
Duration: 30 minutes

Stop At: Foneas Beach, Epar.Od. Kalamatas - Areopolis, Kardamili 24022 Greece
Located in West Mani, Foneas Beach is one of the most beloved hidden gems in the area.

The contrast between the cove’s white pebbles, the turquoise waters and the dark grey and green tall rock on the middle provokes a breathtaking sight. Despite the tiny coastline (about 100 meters long), Foneas beach has some idyllic corners to lie down.

How to reach the cove? Foneas Beach is about an hour ago (by car) from Kalamata. The Cove is located between Kardamili and Stoupa. More specifically, driving towards Stoupa there is a small bridge with yellow bars where you have to turn right. There you can find a place for parking but note that it is limited especially during the high season.

Foneas beach is not organized therefore you will not find any sunbeds. However, there is an ‘eco-friendly’ canteen with small tables under the olive trees serving coffee, juices, sandwiches, and ouzo.

For those who enjoy extreme and alternative activities, Foneas beach is one of the best places to visit. Snorkeling, cliff diving or cave exploration are a few of the activities that you can enjoy at Foneas beach.
Duration: 3 hours

Meals included:
• Breakfast
• Lunch
Accommodation included: Overnight stay in a family-run traditional guesthouse or 3-star hotel.

Day 4: Sea Kayaking in Mani Peninsula

Stop At: Mavrovouni Beach, Gytheio Greece
The most popular beach of Gythio is Mavrovouni, placed at approximately 2 km to the south of the town, right below Mavrovouni village. Mavrovouni beach extends for over 6km and is the largest one around Gythio. It is sandy and has small pebbles on the seafloor. It gets livelier in summer but, thanks to its size, it never gets overcrowded. Mavrovouni beach is available for some entertaining activities, such as windsurfing. The perfect time to practice windsurfing is in the afternoon because that is when the wind blows more strongly.

There are many accommodation options and tourist facilities by the coast that can offer you a comfortable stay. To go to Mavrovouni village, you take a paved road all the way to the beach. Mavrovouni beach has been awarded the Blue Flag award, which proves the cleanness of its waters. Moreover, it offers a proper environment for the Caretta-Caretta sea turtles, an endangered species, to lay their eggs. Their nests are protected by Archelon, a Greek society for the Protection of the Sea Turtle.
Duration: 5 hours

Pass By: Shipwreck Dimitrios, Valtaki Beach, Gytheio 232 00 Greece
Dimitrios shipwreck is an imposing, cargo ship of the 20th century that has been abandoned on Selinitsa beach since 1981. It is believed that this ship was used for transporting illegal cigarettes between Turkey and Italy, however many refer to this ship as a ghost ship, of which the origins remain unknown.

According to the book Ta Navagia stis Ellinikes thalasses (translated as The shipwrecks of the Greek seas), this ship docked in an emergency on the port of Gythio as the captain was in need of medical care. Due to various obstacles, most of which were financial problems, the ship was left adrift at the same spot of the port and in 1981 was declared unsafe. As severe weather conditions started to occur, the ship was swept away to its current position.

Stop At: Stoupa, Stoupa, Messenia Region, Peloponnese
Stoupa is a coastal town in the Peloponnese, which is situated 45 kilometers southeast of Kalamata (with its airport - bus connection to Stoupa 4 times a day). Not long ago Stoupa was a small fishing village but especially in the last decade, the travel agencies in the various countries and individual travelers discovered this seaside resort. There are some (mostly small) hotels and apartment complexes and there are quite a number of beautiful villas with a private swimming pool offered for rent. In Stoupa there is plenty of choice in restaurants, mini markets, and shops and there is a pharmacy. There is no bank here but there are two ATMs.

Probably the name Stoupa comes from the Albanian word "stopa" which means beach. In Stoupa there are three beaches and in the area, you can find many more small beaches. The first beach is called Kardamyli beach. It is a large sandy beach with facilities such as sunbeds and parasols. At the beach, there are also a few tavernas. The sea is shallow here and therefore it is ideal for families with small children.

Kalogria beach is also known as Zorba's beach. The Greek writer Nikos Kazantzakis made friends with Alexis Zorbas here and based his book Zorba the Greek on him. In honor of Kazantzakis there is a statue for him at the beach.

The main beach of Stoupa, Stoupa beach, which is centrally located in the village, is a large sandy beach with facilities. You can rent pedal boats and canoes here, and there are sunbeds and parasols. It is also a good place to snorkel. Stoupa beach is the most popular beach in the village. The water is steeper here though than on Kardamyli beach.
Duration: 4 hours

Meals included:
• Breakfast
• Lunch
Accommodation included: Overnight stay in a family-run traditional guesthouse or a 3-star hotel.

Day 5: Roadtrip to Cape Tenaro

Stop At: Caves of Diros, Diros 230 62 Greece
It is not just the drop in temperature that gives you the chills as you descend underground to start the 40-minute boat tour of Vlychada, the biggest cave of the Diros complex. It is the beautiful and dramatic formations of stalactites and stalagmites, formed millions of years ago, when the sea, located just a few meters away, started to rise and formed the lake we see today. It is the excitement of not knowing what can be hiding in the darkness beyond the illuminated 1.5k route, and the realization of the sheer size of this underground miracle of nature: a series of vast caverns stretching 15k into the rock, with 2,800 waterways – and this is only what we know of so far.
Duration: 30 minutes

Stop At: Vathia, Vathia, Laconia Region, Peloponnese
Vathia is built on a prominent position on a high hill above the sea. The power of the picture comes from the tall stone towers. The whole scenery is magical; it’s a landscape coming from the past. Vathia has been located on this peak for centuries, according to historical sources from the mid-16th century. During the 19th century, the population was about 300 residents. During the first decades of the 19th century the residents’ exodus to cities began due to poverty. As a result, in 1979 the whole population of the village was 11 residents, mostly elderly poor women, surrounded by ruins. Electricity arrived there in 1980 when an effort was made by the Greek Tourist Board to restore the towers in order to exploit them for holiday accommodation, but this effort didn’t come true as just a few of them are inhabitable today. At first glance Vathia looks like a ghost village, many of the houses are empty and others are ruined. However, the few of them which have been restored are in the same imposing style, with their small windows which were used as embrasures to keep away intruders either from the sea or from the land. You can walk into the abandoned towers and admire their architectural design, which represents the traditional architecture style of Mani.
Duration: 45 minutes

Stop At: Akrotiri Tenaro Lighthouse, Porto Kagio Greece
Cape Tenaro, otherwise known as Cape Matapan is the southernmost point of mainland Greece
Cape Tenaro has been an important place for thousands of years. This unique place is situated at the end of Mani, in the Peloponnese and it separates the Messinian Gulf in the west from the Laconian Gulf in the east. The name Tenaro derives from the mythical hero and son of Zeus, Taenarus, who was believed to have built a city named after himself near the tip of the peninsula.

Leave your car and follow the path which begins from the Byzantine chapel of Agioi Asomatoi, built on the remains of Poseidon Sanctuary and Death Oracle to reach the Cave of Hades.
The distance is around 20-30 minutes by feet, but as soon as you get there you will be rewarded with the sense of ultimate freedom.
Duration: 30 minutes

Meals included:
• Breakfast
• Lunch
Accommodation included: Overnight stay in a family-run traditional guesthouse or a 3-star hotel.

Day 6: Transfer to Athens International Airport

Pass By: Athens, Athens, Attica
After an amazing trip through the Peloponesse, it is now time to return home.
A transfer will be organized to take you the airport. The drive is approximately 3:30 hours.

Meals included:
• Breakfast
No accommodation included on this day.

Mythical Peloponnese

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