The Peloponnese peninsula has always been a year-round destination, as it is very close to Athens and offers a wide range of experiences at any time of year. You can always visit some of Greece’s most significant archaeological sites such as Ancient Olympia, Mycenae and Epidaurus while enjoying numerous outdoor activities such as hiking through dense forests, kayaking on the clear blue waters of beautiful coastlines, rafting on stunning rivers and much more!
Let us introduce you to some well-hidden gems of the Peloponnese peninsula that are peaceful and less crowded, but at the same time offer you unforgettable adventures and beautiful moments!
Village of Zarouchla, Achaia, Peloponnese
Zarouchla is located at an altitude of 1,100 metres in the middle of forests – chestnut, fir and black pine – just 2.30 hours from Athens! It is located on the slopes of Mount Helmos and is surrounded by a beautiful natural landscape that is frequented by local visitors, especially at weekends. In the village of Zarouchla, you can stroll among the old mansions in the cobbled alleys, visit the post-Byzantine church of the Holy Trinity from the 16th century and taste the delicious dishes in the traditional taverns. If you choose to stay in Zarouchla, you will have the opportunity to enhance your experience with a visit to stunning places nearby that you can easily reach. Just ten kilometers from the village, you can enjoy the fabulous landscape of Lake Tsivlou (800 m above sea level) and hike in a green environment, enjoy the magnificent views and indulge in a variety of activities such as cycling, canoeing and horseback riding. For experienced hikers, we recommend a challenging trail that starts in the village of Zarouchla and leads up to the Livadaki peak (1,836 m altitude), from where there are spectacular panoramic views. Of course, hiking enthusiasts can also climb the UNESCO Global Geopark Chelmos – Vouraikos National Park and ascend to the magnificent Helmos Observatory, which can be visited. Before leaving Zarouchla, be sure to stop off at the village of Mesorrougi (20 minutes’ drive) to explore the magnificent Mesorrougi-Solos waterfalls!
Village of Planitero, Achaia, Peloponnese
Let the road take you to the charming village of Planitero, located at an altitude of 700 meters, nestled in the foothills of Mount Helmos (Natura 2000 protected area). After an almost 3-hour drive from Athens, you will suddenly find yourself in a mythical landscape, surrounded by gigantic plane trees up to 4 meters high, next to the rushing waters of the Aroania springs gushing from the foot of the mountain! At the entrance to the village there are two family-run taverns that have their own trout farm, and you can enjoy local dishes. If you want to hike in the area, there are many fascinating options, as the European E4 trail crosses the village, and you can follow the path that leads to the nearest villages and mountains. If you are staying in Planitero, be sure to visit the impressive cave of Kastria Lake (10 minutes’ drive) with its spectacular multi-colored chambers and its unique formation of cascading lakes that form three different levels.
Kalavryta town, Achaia, Peloponnese
Kalavryta is located at the foot of Mount Helmos and is considered a popular winter destination mainly because of its well-known ski resort, which is close to Athens and attracts many visitors. However, the town has a significant long history that begins in antiquity and extends through the Byzantine era to the wars of the 20th century. You can visit the monastery of Agia Lavra, which was built in 961 AD and is one of the oldest monasteries in the Peloponnese. The town of Kalavryta is absolutely charming; you can enjoy a stroll through the picturesque alleys with the stone houses and relax in the pretty cafés and tavernas right next to the shady plane trees. Kalavryta is also known for its genuine local products such as herbs, tea, honey, handmade pasta, walnuts and chestnuts, which you can buy in the pretty stores in the central square. Another reason for Kalavryta’s fame is the Odontotos rack railroad, inaugurated in 1896, which covers the 22 km Kalavryta – Diakopto route, surrounded by the scenic Vouraikos Gorge, which can also be hiked, and ends on its shores of the Corinthian Gulf.
Dimitsana village, Arcadia, Peloponnese
Don’t hesitate to get in your car and let us take you to the beautiful village of Dimitsana – just 2.5 hours from Athens! Dimitsana is amphitheatrically located at an altitude of 1,016 meters on the slopes of Mount Menalon, overlooking the river Lousios and surrounded by mountains and lush pine trees. Start your day with a walk through this beautiful traditional settlement with its stone alleys, pass by the old churches with their beautiful bell towers and take a break in one of the pretty cafés to enjoy the panoramic view of the Lousios Valley! You should also visit the open-air museum of waterpower in Dimitsana and find out how the power of water was used to produce various goods in traditional, pre-industrial societies and its great contribution during the Greek Revolution of 1821; you can also visit six surviving legendary gunpowder mills where gunpowder was once produced. Active travelers should definitely explore the impressive Lousios Gorge, which combines dense nature with great history. During the hike you will come across one of the oldest Byzantine monasteries called Old Philosophou, built in 963 AD, literally hanging from the cliffs! The trail leads you to another impressive old monastery built inside the rock, the Prodromou monastery. Your hike ends at the Temple of Asklepios, which was built in the 4th century BC. Continue your adventure just a few minutes’ drive away in the village of Karitaina, where you can have a wonderful rafting experience on one of the best rivers in Greece, the Lousios River.
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