Epic 7 Day Peloponnese Highway Journey Itinerary (for 2023)

Sponsored by Allianz Journey

When most individuals consider Greece, they’re dreaming of sunsets in Santorini, crusing adventures on the cobalt waters of the Mediterranean, or dancing on tabletops in Ios. 

Been there, performed that. (And I like to recommend it!)

However for these searching for an off-the-beaten-path journey, I extremely suggest a Peloponnese highway journey.

car by side of the road with coastline views

Now I’m a extra mature traveler (can I barf at that?) I’m searching for journey adventures that transcend beautiful seashores and views.

So, I used to be thrilled on the alternative to discover the Peloponnese area of Greece due to TBEX. 

Briefly, TBX is among the largest journey running a blog conferences on the planet and they’re normally held in lesser-known locations. I spoke on the occasion, and like every good Aussie, I used that as a possibility to discover the area extra in-depth. There isn’t any approach I’m flying greater than 8 hours and NOT staying longer! 

crowds covering bar with a view
TBEX celebration – Kastraki Citadel Bar

I’m so glad I did. I had a unbelievable journey that took me to the traditional wonders of Corinth and Acrocorinth to the charming coastal city of Nafplio, the picturesque vineyards of Nemea, and the colourful metropolis of Kalamata.

On this publish, I’ll share info on the highlights of a highway journey of the Peloponnese, issues to do, sensible recommendations on automotive rental, the place to remain, and supply a 7-day itinerary define primarily based upon my very own private experiences (and classes realized). In case you discover it useful, please share it with a good friend!

HANDY BOOKING CHECKLIST:

You’ll discover extra info on the next beneath, however to make it straightforward for you, listed here are our high suggestions in your pre-trip reserving.

Why Go to the Peloponnese?

caz smiling at camera with views of nafplio and sea behind her
Nafplio – the primary capital of Greece

You could have heard of the Peloponnese: Assume Sparta, St Paul, kalamata olives, Greek mythology, and a lot extra. 

This area of Greece solely two hours west of Athens presents an ideal mix of historical past, pure magnificence, and genuine Greek tradition. You’ll discover historical archaeological websites, breathtaking mountainous and coastal landscapes, scrumptious meals and award profitable wine.

I used to be stunned on the various journey choices and the way lush and scenically lovely it was. 

It’s potential to discover the Peloponnese utilizing public transport, and even on a guided tour, however I wished the liberty to discover at my very own tempo, uncover hidden gems, and immerse myself within the native lifestyle.

Plus, a mother who’s traveled along with her youngsters for 15 years, seven of these full time, I wished a simple journey expertise for this solo journey.

So, let’s dive into the sensible particulars of planning your Peloponnese highway journey!

Firstly, Journey Insurance coverage

caz posing with view of kalamata coastline behind her
Journey Completely satisfied!

We by no means depart house with out journey insurance coverage (a $1,000 lesson makes positive of it!) We even have an annual journey insurance coverage coverage with Allianz Journey – our long-term companion and sponsor of this content material –  so we don’t have to fret about buying a coverage for each journey.

We hope you by no means have to make use of your journey insurance coverage coverage, however you’ll positively need one for safety and peace of thoughts. Ought to one thing sudden occur that’s coated by your coverage, it can save you you tons of if not hundreds of {dollars} in misplaced pre-paid bills. 

One of many added advantages of getting journey insurance coverage when renting a automotive for a highway journey, is you could possibly skip the added further expense of buying a Collision Injury Waiver , as rental automotive loss/harm protection is included in some single journey and annual journey insurance coverage insurance policies. You may also be able to add it to your policy if it’s not! 

Touring in Europe, particularly throughout peak season, generally is a headache with delays and misplaced baggage. Your journey insurance coverage coverage can also enable you to in these cases.

This content material is sponsored by Allianz Companions (AGA Service Co.) and I’ve acquired monetary compensation however all opinions expressed are my very own.

Hiring a Automobile in Greece

car driving through the mountains

To embark on this unimaginable journey, you’ll want a dependable automobile to discover the Peloponnese. Hiring a automotive is a well-liked selection because it supplies flexibility and comfort. 

Go for a small, snug, and fuel-efficient automotive to navigate the winding roads and hilly terrain of the area.

Not solely that, however you might also be driving down extraordinarily slender streets, like I did in Nafplio and Athens. You’ll need a tiny automotive. 

Take heed to baggage. My automotive solely had room for one suitcase within the boot/trunk. 

I picked up my rental at Athens airport as I stayed in Athens for 2 nights earlier than my Peloponnese Highway journey. 

This meant driving by way of Athens and parking at my lodge (free of charge). I didn’t want it whereas in Athens. But it surely labored out less expensive to rent the automotive for your complete time and drop it again off on the airport when it was time to go away. 

car on beach in nafplio

I rented my car through DiscoverCars.com. I cherished the benefit of their search filters to assist me rapidly discover a dependable, environment friendly automobile with nice charges. 

Because it’s a search comparability web site, you’ll be able to simply discover a automotive to fit your wants. i.e. one on the airport, or one at a rental supplier within the metropolis of Athens.

Their reserving communication was glorious with useful suggestions and guides on visiting Athens! They do a unbelievable job of being greater than only a automotive rental reserving web site. 

At A Look: 7 Days within the Peloponnese Highway Journey Itinerary

peloponnese mountains and coastline
View from the highway

In case you don’t have a lot time, here’s a transient itinerary define primarily based upon my experiences. My recommendation is to be as versatile as you’ll be able to.

I switched my days round in Nafplio as I had a full day of rain and didn’t need to discover the seashores and beautiful viewpoints on that day! 

Take a look at the map with all of the locations talked about on this itinerary information mapped out for you!

  • Day 1: Choose up your rental automotive, and drive to Nafplio. Discover Historic Corinth, Acrocorinth, and Epidaurus Theater alongside the way in which. Discover Previous City Nafplio.
  • Day 2: Go to the traditional websites of Mycenae and Nemea and take pleasure in wine tasting. In a single day Nafplio
  • Day 3: Discover the Palamidi Fortress and the seashores of Nafplio. In a single day in Nafplio. 
  • Day 4: Drive to Kalamata, stopping at scenic spots alongside the way in which. Discover town heart and benefit from the vigorous ambiance. In a single day in Kalamata.
  • Day 5: Take a day journey to Kardamyli on the Mani Peninsula. Spend the day enjoyable on the attractive seashores of Kalamata or take a day journey to close by points of interest such because the Mani Peninsula or the beautiful Voidokilia Seashore. In a single day in Kalamata.
  • Day 6: Hike the beautiful Polylimnio Waterfalls and the Voidokilia Seashore
  • Day 7: Depart for Athens, returning to your rental automotive on the airport earlier than your departure.

Map of this Peloponnese Itinerary

Beneath you can find a map of this itinerary, together with all the important thing points of interest, locations to eat, and locations to remain.

Various Choices

cove beach in kardamyli
Kardamyli on the Mani Peninsula

When you’ve got extra time, or need to add in just a few different high points of interest within the Peloponnese to your itinerary, listed here are some solutions (I’m coming again for them)

  • The Website of Historic Olympia (house to the primary Olympic Video games)
  • The traditional web site of Mystras
  • Sparta
  • Mani Peninsula 
  • Costa Navarino (Navarino Bay)
  • You’re additionally not too removed from a ferry experience over to the island of Zakynthos.
  • Take a ship journey over from Piraeus to Hydra
  • Delphi Archeological Website

I extremely suggest you discover Athens both earlier than or after your Peoloponnese highway journey. I’ll have a publish sharing my suggestions for Athens quickly. In case you be a part of our electronic mail listing, you gained’t miss it!

The Finest Peloponnese Highway Journey Itinerary

coastline with small island of Kondyli Beach
Kondyli Seashore, Nafplio

Beneath is how I like to recommend you spend a seven day itinerary. I’ve damaged the next points of interest and issues to do within the Peloponnese into the order through which I did them, however you’ll be able to change up this itinerary into any order that fits you.

Day 1: Historic Corinth & Acrocorinth

I skipped the city of Corinth because of time and low expectations. As a substitute, I selected to go to the next excellent historical websites. I used to be fairly blown away by them.

Cease 1: Corinth Canal

the narrow corinth canal from above
The Corinth Canal

Firstly, you might need to cease off on the Corinth Canal. I discovered it overrated however I do know many others who adore it. 

The Corinth Canal is an engineering marvel that connects the Aegean Sea with the Ionian Sea. It’s extremely slender and is supposed to be a sight if a ship is coming down it. 

This may be a simple five-minute cease in your highway journey, and also you’ll should move by way of it anyway so that you may as effectively. There’s a parking zone on the precise simply as you cross the bridge (you’ll see a great deal of buses). Then stroll on the bridge and take a peek. 

Cease 2: Historic Corinth

columns of temple of apollo ancient corinth in front of acropolos

Have you ever heard of St Paul and his letters to the Corinthians? 

That is the place historical past will come alive for you because it’s the place St Paul lived for 18-months in his makes an attempt to transform the gentiles. It’s a high attraction within the Peloponnese for Christians.

You’ll solely want about an hour to discover the archaeological web site of Historic Corinth. 

Wander among the many well-preserved ruins and temples, marvel on the iconic Temple of Apollo, and the Bema, a big, elevated rostrum standing prominently within the centre of the Roman Discussion board the place St Paul was placed on trial for unlawful spiritual teachings however was discovered not responsible as a result of he was simply having discussions. 

white stunted colums on the bera of st paul with acrocorinth acropolis behind
Berna of St Paul

There’s additionally a small archaeological museum, which highlights artifacts from the world. 

Outdoors of the Historic Corinth Gates are a row of eating places to gasoline up with espresso and lunch earlier than driving up the mountain. 

I had no thought you possibly can get a self-guided audio tour of Ancient Corinth. I want I knew as I actually loved the one I had touring the archeological websites in Athens.

Cease 3: Acrocorinth

runis of acrocorinth and views of corinth valleys
Acrocorinth – value a climb!

All good issues come to those that are ready to climb. Acrocorinth is the place you’ll be able to escape the crowds. Acrocorinth was a perhaps for me on my highway journey and rapidly turned one in all my favourite points of interest within the Peloponnese.

I noticed it sitting excessive atop the mountain from Historic Corinth and was intrigued to comply with that winding mountainous highway. 

Acorointh is the traditional fortress perched so excessive in an effort to monitor the isthmus of Corinth and shield Historic Corinth beneath. 

views of corinth from the top of acrocorinth
The Views from Acrocorinth

There are a number of trails working by way of the crumbling ruins, all resulting in essentially the most spectacular views. 

The wealthy historical past and beautiful vistas make Acrocorinth a must-visit attraction within the Peloponnese.

views overlooking valey and coastline
View from the highway

Cease 4: Epidaurus

view from above of sandy beach between the cliffs
Views on the drive

From Acrocorinth, drive to Epidaurus and revel in some beautiful coastal views alongside the way in which. 

Epidaurus was a small metropolis in historical Greece, on the Argolid Peninsula on the Saronic Gulf.

Cease 5: Epidaurus Theater

ancient theater of Epidaurus with mountains in the background

Visiting the traditional Theater of Epidaurus is an absolute should for any historical past fanatic or theater lover.

This magnificent UNESCO World Heritage Website, and residential of historical therapeutic grounds, holds immense cultural significance.

The Theater of Epidaurus, dates again to the 4th century BC, and was constructed to host spiritual ceremonial occasions in honor of God Asclepius.

Stroll to the highest for lovely views of the luxurious valley surrounding it. It’s famend for its near-perfect acoustics, permitting the viewers to listen to even the softest of whispers. Stand in the course of the stage and whisper to a good friend up on the high degree and check it out! 

It’s a singular alternative to witness the enduring legacy of Greek theater and expertise the magic of this historic venue. In summer time, it hosts performances of historical Greek drama.

crumbling remains of ancient temple
Asklepios sanctuary
athletic field Asklepios sanctuary

Simply steps away from the theater is the traditional Asklepios sanctuary, devoted to the God of Therapeutic. It included a temple with the god’s cult statue; an altar; a sacred spring; an providing pit; two stoas; and an athletic discipline.

DO NOT purchase a espresso from the cafe right here – it was uber costly and never excellent! The freshly squeezed orange juice, nevertheless, was the refreshing burst of hydration I wanted.

Epidaurus is about 30-minutes from Nafplio (your in a single day vacation spot).

Day 2: Day journey to Mycenae and Nemea for Wine Tasting

On my one full wet day in Nafplio, I made a decision to go to the traditional web site of Mycenae and do some wine tasting in Nemea. Each are a simple day journey from Nafplio (solely forty’ minutes’ drive in complete)

Cease 1: Historic Mycenae

crumbling walls of ancient Mycenae with views
Mycenae

First cease solely twenty minutes’ drive away was Mycenae, an historical archaeological web site that holds immense historic and cultural significance.

I knew about this solely as a result of Savannah realized concerning the highly effective Mycenaean civilization at school, which flourished through the Late Bronze Age. 

Folks go to to discover the remnants of Mycenaean civilization but in addition to delve into the wealthy tapestry of Greek mythology.

This was the city of the legendary King Agamemnon, the chief of the Greeks through the Trojan Struggle. It’s additionally based by Perseus, son of Zeus and Danae, and heroes immortalized by the Homer’s Epics.

Surrounding the ruins are the stays of big Cyclopean partitions stated to be constructed by the legendary cyclops. 

the lions gate of Mycenae
See the headless lions?

Start by strolling by way of the well-known spot in Mycenae, the Lions Gate into the previous civilization to wander amongst the ruins of palaces, tombs, and fortifications that when symbolized the may and opulence of Mycenae.

There are totally different burial chambers referred to as tholos, or beehive tombs, that are a round vaulted chamber with an entrance approach.

A spotlight of Mycenae for guests is the Treasury of Atreus, the vaulted tomb of King Agamemnon.

inside the beehive shaped tomb of King Agamemnon
King Agamemnon’s tomb

There have been too many faculty tour teams for me to actually benefit from the tomb. However I did benefit from the ruins of Mycenae and the spectacular views of the encompassing countryside. 

The Lion’s Gate is one other notable landmark within the web site.

Mycenae is a pilgrimage for historical past lovers, providing an enchanting glimpse into Greece’s historical world and leaving guests in awe of the unimaginable achievements of the Mycenaean civilization.

BOOK IN ADVANCE: This skip the line ticket is definitely cheaper than what I paid on the gate. It additionally contains an audio information.

Cease 2: Wine Tasting in Nemea

caz holding a glass of wine smiling at camera
Wine Time

Nemea is thought for its vineyards and the legendary Historic Nemean Video games held each different 12 months in honor of Zeus.

I didn’t get time to go to Historic Nemea (and I used to be a bit historical Greek drained!), however you’ll be able to go to to see the Temple of Zeus and the traditional stadium. 

As a substitute, my function for Nemea was wine tasting! I actually wished to join a tour for this so I may benefit from the tasting with out worrying about blood alcohol limits. But it surely didn’t occur, so I selected to go to two vineyards, spacing them out with tasting to equal one glass at every over a chronic interval. 

Nemea is among the greatest wine areas in Greece, recognized for the acclaimed Agiorgitiko grape selection.

I arrived at Ktimi Bairaktaris Vineyard. on the proper time. A tasting tour had simply began so I joined for simply 15 Euro. 

We went behind the scenes to study concerning the course of of creating wine earlier than sitting down within the tasting room. They purchased out a small charcuterie board of cheese, bread, and olive oil and three samples of wine: white, rose, and crimson. All have been scrumptious! 

I rapidly turned a fan of Greek wine on this Peloponnese journey. 

exterior of Papantonis wine tasting room covered in vines
Papantonis Vineyard

My subsequent vineyard was Papantonis Winery south of Argos, solely twenty minutes from Nafplio. I don’t understand how I discovered this place, however I’m so glad I did. 

This was no fancy vineyard with a small tasting bar amongst the barrels and workplace house. Proprietor Antonis joined me with a glass of wine and introduced out a plate of essentially the most scrumptious feta cheese and olives (grown on his farm) and poured me a glass of wine approach past regular sampling measurement.

bottle of red and white wine on table with glass of red beside
Such nice wine
plate of feta and hard cheese
Scrumptious feta

 This was the one time I used to be rueful I used to be touring alone and driving! I needed to politely decline the large servings, taking small sips of scrumptious chardonnay and probably probably the greatest crimson wines I’ve ever tasted – Meden Agan constituted of the Agiorgitiko grapes. 

bottle of red on table from papantonis winery
Award profitable very good wine

Antonis advised me of his life working as an accountant in Libya, Nigeria, and Saudi Arabia, saving up sufficient cash to give up and begin this award-winning vineyard and farm. The wine was so scrumptious and the dialog so enjoyable, I knew I needed to reduce the go to brief! 

However, not with out taking a bottle of that crimson wine house with me to savor correctly within the US.

WINE TOUR: This wine tasting tour additionally features a go to to Historic Nemea. It’s costly, and you may solely guide with two individuals. I assumed it meant 2 individuals minimal on tour, however it gained’t allow you to guide until you could have two individuals. I attempted a number of reserving websites. Hopefully you could have higher luck if you happen to don’t need to drive. I made it work however be vigilant.

Day 3: Nafplio / Nafplion

Now it’s time to discover one in all my favourite locations within the Peloponnese, Nafplio, the primary capital of Greece.

It’s recognized for its romantic ambiance and Venetian appeal, which you’ll fall in love with in your first steps by way of the meandering cobblestone slender streets of Previous City. 

Wander and surprise on the colourful buildings and retailers, linger in inviting cafes, and revel in sunsets on the water’s edge. 

Listed below are just a few different high issues to do in Nafplio.

Cease 1: Hike the 999 steps to the Palamidi Fortress 

Mountaineering to Palamidi Fortress, a citadel perched on high of the hill behind Previous City, will not be as exhausting because it sounds. The reward will probably be breathtaking views over the city and the Argolic Gulf. 

Constructed by the Venetians within the 18th century, this fortress served as a stronghold to guard in opposition to enemy invasions and performed a major position through the Greek Struggle of Independence. 

bell tower and flag flying at top of Palamidi castle
castle walls of palamidi and view of sea in background
palamidi fortress walls with view of sea in background

You possibly can wander by way of the fortress and benefit from the views. Make sure to crawl your approach into the damp, darkish jail cell as a reminder to comply with the regulation!

Go early for the perfect gentle circumstances and to keep away from crowds.

Cease 2: Kayak to Bourtzi Citadel

bourtzi castle on the water
Bourtzi Citadel

This fort, together with Palamadi, is taken into account one of many landmarks of Nafplio. You will note it round each nook and on high of each vantage level. Its unique function was to guard town from pirates and invaders from the ocean. By means of the years,it’s additionally been a jail, residence, tourism workplaces and a luxurious lodge and restaurant. 

You possibly can go to by boat, or on a kayaking journey. Apparently, you’ll be able to lease kayaks, however I couldn’t discover any info. It might have been to early within the season. Here’s a sea kayak tour, though it’s a bit expensive.

Sadly, I didn’t get time to kayak over to the long-lasting Bourtzi, a small, fortified island situated simply off the coast. It was excessive on my listing of issues to do in Nafplio.

Cease 3: Discover the Nafplio Seashores

aerial view of curving Kondyli Beach  with mountains in the background
Kondyli Seashore

One in every of my favourite days on my Peloponnese trip was driving to the close by seashores of Nafplio. My home windows have been rolled down, Pearl Jam was blasting, and climate circumstances have been close to good.

Select how far you need to go. I drove all the way in which to Kondyli Seashore (Paralia Kondyli). This can be a extra distant seaside located on Vivari Lagoon with no services and little individuals. You possibly can even camp on a strip of seaside right here. 

tolo beach with people
Tolo Seashore

Alongside the way in which I ended at Karathoas Seashore (Paralia Karathonas) – it was actually windy right here, so I didn’t keep lengthy – and Tolo Seashore (Paralia Tolo), the place you’ll discover a small city with a number of eating places and facilities.

Cease 4: Stroll from Previous City Nafplio to Arvanitias Seashore

stone pathway going under archway with views of sea
Arvanitia Promenade

No must miss out on Nafplio Seashores if you happen to don’t have a automotive – do that as effectively even if you happen to do! 

You possibly can both stroll to Arvanitias Seashore from Palamidi Fortress or stroll alongside the shoreline from Previous City. 

The 1km Arvanitia Promenade is among the hottest walks in Nafplion. You’ll have spectacular views the entire approach and get to complete on the beautiful Arvanitias Seashore for a swim. 

people and beach umbrellas on pebbly Arvanitia beach
Arvanitia Seashore

It’s a pebble seaside so put on sneakers all the way down to the sting and the seaside is small so come early to keep away from crowds. My icy swim right here within the Could waters was very refreshing after a close to good day mountain climbing and seaside highway tripping.

The place to Eat in Nafplio

people sitting outside restaurant
Syntagma Sq. Eating places

You have got infinite selections of tavernas, eating places and cafes in new and Previous City. I most well-liked these tucked away on the streets of Previous City, fairly than the overpriced ones on the waterfront. I used to be stunned that a few them (within the sundown viewing space) had a dominant American menu. 

Oh no. I got here to Greece to eat scrumptious Greek meals. Particularly given Nafplio is on the ocean and you’ve got infinite choices for scrumptious seafood recent from the Mediterranean. 

My absolute favourite eating places in Nafplio have been:

  • Alaloum: Lots of you noticed my delicious tuna souvlaki (recent from the close by Nafplio waters) and 5 Euro half liter of wine on my reels. I cherished the costs, scrumptious meals, and pleasant service of this Nafplio Greek restaurant. 
  • Once more, providing nice service and a scrumptious dish of octopus was ΣΟΥΡΕΑ, which implies Surreal in English. Yep. That’s Nafplio. 
  • A wine at Mentor Bar on Syntagma Sq. was unbelievable for individuals watching, particularly after my extraordinary day at Palamidi Fortress and the seashores of Nafplio. 
  • I didn’t discover a espresso to rave about, however my Greek espresso paired with Greek yogurt for breakfast at Kalimera was good. 

Areas of the above are within the map of this itinerary.

The place to remain in Nafplio

pink and orange buildings in front of Palamidi fortress hill
Room with a view

I cherished my little pension on the Kapodistrias Hotel in the Old Town. I stayed within the Nafplios room, which was tiny, however sufficient since I used to be hardly ever there.

Due to the beautiful views from my small balcony, easy accessibility to stroll to Nafplio points of interest, and the value of sixty-five euro an evening, I used to be very glad.

Day 4: Kalamata, Dwelling of the Olives

winding road in mountains with coastal views

Give your self time in your drive to Kalamata from Nafplio to benefit from the views as you wind up and down the mountainous move. Look ahead to bikes – it’s my favourite scenic drive of theirs. 

It’s solely an hour and a half to the colourful metropolis of Kalamata, well-known for its olives and picturesque seashores. Earlier than this journey, I by no means knew kalamata olives have been named after a area! 

views over kalamata city and sea
Good day Kalamata

I ended at Kalamata’s Citadel on the way in which in. There may be not a lot to see right here, besides lovely panoramic views out over town. 

Alongside Kalamata Seashore is a palm-fringed waterfront promenade nice for stretching your legs or to stroll 20 minutes into city. I didn’t get to discover a lot of Kalamata Metropolis as I used to be busy with the convention or exploring points of interest close by.

You have got the automotive so benefit from having fun with historical historic websites, beautiful seashores, and adventurous hikes of the Kalamata area. 

Take pleasure in a drink with a view at Kastraki – Meteoro Bar

Among the finest issues to do in Kalamata is to have a drink – espresso or alcoholic – or a meal on the Kastraki Meteoro bar on the hillside above Kalamata.

Constructed to copy a fort with towers, turrets, stone partitions and Ampitheater seating all pointing to essentially the most beautiful, expansive view of the Kalamata shoreline. it’s in contrast to something I’ve seen earlier than. It was fairly a magical closing celebration venue for TBEX.

We had an incredible night ingesting craft cocktails and dancing up a storm!

The place to Eat in Kalamata

farmhouse breakfast plate with coffee
Liked Blossom Owl

There are a plethora of eating places and seaside bars alongside the way in which. We ate lots of scrumptious meals served on the convention and celebration venues so we didn’t eat out quite a bit. 

However listed here are just a few I loved. 

  • I had a scrumptious brunch and flat white at Blossom Owl Coffeeshop in Downtown Kalamata. They’re most recognized for his or her big number of scrumptious pancakes (sadly, I’m gluten free!)
  • I cherished the vibe of Ego Bar, the place we had lunch day by day throughout our convention. It’s truly usually only a bar. 
  • Da Luz had a comfy ambiance, nice meals and wine, and glorious service. Don’t miss the seafood saganaki. 
  • The flat white at Aurora Cafe on the promenade nearer to Kalamata city was unbelievably good – and solely 2.50 euros. (It’s truly inside a trend retailer, however has a aspect window and seating space.)

The place to Keep in Kalamata: Grecotel Filoxenia

courtyard surrounded by resort buildings and palm trees

Then it was time to test into my lodging for the following 5 nights for my convention. The Grecotel Filoxenia. I cherished how spacious my suite was and its good location on the seaside. I made positive to slot in in time to chill out by the pool, and swim within the (barely chilly) Messinian Gulf.

person sitting on rocky kalamata beach
Seashore out the entrance of the resort

That is the right place to remain in Kalamata for these wanting a bit restful oasis after a day exploring. With all of the facilities proper there, it’s an ideal lodging selection for households.

Day 5: Day Journey from Kalamata to Kardamyli

rugged coastline of kardamyli with Taygetos mountain
Rugged Mani Peninsula shoreline

Picturesque Kardamyli is a sleepy fishing village on the shores of the Messenian Gulf about an hour from Kalamata.

This can be a hidden gem within the Peloponnese beckons vacationers to unwind and reconnect with nature, discover the slender cobblestone streets of the village, embark on adventurous hikes by way of the encompassing mountains and olive groves, and paddle the crystal-clear waters and sea caves.

To start our day in Kardamyli our group break up up with some selecting to have espresso within the village with others taking a two-hour hike alongside the path of the traditional so-called ‘’royal avenue’’ connecting Kardamyli with Sparta throughout historical years.

My small group selected to do the two-hour sea kayaking journey.

Cease 1: Sea Kayaking in Kardamyli

kayaks in the water

Many will say sea kayaking in Kardamyli was the perfect of their Peloponnese vacation. It was definitely one in all my favourite issues to do. 

Our guides from Discover Messini have been passionate, pleasant and shared many tales concerning the historical past and tradition of the Mani Peninsula.

I regretted not including extra time on this area to my Peloponnese highway journey (it’s the hidden gem of the Peloponnese).

The highway into this peninsula was solely opened within the Nineteen Seventies and is was the house of pirates and vendetta households! 

We did a shortened model of a four-hour kayaking journey which additionally contains extra caves and picnics on the seaside (and swimming).

patrick leigh fermor house on the beach
Patrick Leigh Fermor Home

Alongside the way in which we stopped at Turtle Island, well-known British journey author Patrick Leigh Fermor’s Home (see subsequent part), to gaze upon pyramid formed Taygetos, the best mountain within the Peloponnese, with a top of 2407 meters, and to paddle right into a Seals’ Cave to see the luminescent cobalt blue water.

Cease 2: Go to the Patrick Leigh Fermor Home

stone villa with fountain in the front courtyard and cypress tress
The Villa

Our group reconnected on the beautiful Patrick Leigh Fermor House, which we had seen from the kayaks. 

This historic home was as soon as the beloved residence of Patrick Leigh Fermor, a famend British journey author and battle hero who discovered inspiration within the tranquil fantastic thing about Kardamyli. He walked from England to Greece and fell in love with this sleepy village and determined to remain:

“We walked down right into a gently sloping world of the utmost magical magnificence…thick with magnificent olive timber and many different timber… Behind, the peninsula melted into an incredible conch of gray and orange rock. I knew I’d by no means depart.”

cove on the sea
caz posing in sunken seating area
Completely satisfied right here! I would like this in my house!
statue pf patrick fermor and olive tree
Take a look at these gardens!

The home, now a museum, presents a singular glimpse into Fermor’s extraordinary life and his deep connection to Greece. You possibly can discover the rooms stuffed together with his private belongings, browse his intensive library, and wander by way of the luxurious gardens that overlook the azure waters of the Mediterranean.

The stone villa is completely beautiful and is a spot the place I may see myself residing and writing books. You possibly can virtually really feel the echoes of literary conversations and picture the inventive spirit that thrived inside its partitions.

The Patrick Leigh Fermor Home in Kardamyli will maintain a particular place within the hearts of literature lovers and historical past buffs alike. 

For the summer time months the Patrick Leigh Fermor Home is obtainable to lease, both the entire villa to accommodate ten individuals or as particular person self-contained suites. 

The home comes with an outside swimming pool, terrace, non-public seaside space, free Wi-Fi and sprawling Mediterranean backyard of olive- and cypress timber and wildflowers. It’s a dear keep however could possibly be your bucket listing dream! See rates and availability here.

Day 6: Day Journey to Polylimnio Waterfalls and Voidokilia Seashore

Right here’s one other fantastic day journey from Kalamata together with your automotive rental. 

Cease 1: Hike the Polylimnio Waterfall Path

Polylimnio Waterfall dropping into pool of water

Hidden inside the lush inexperienced panorama of Messenia about 40 minutes from Kalamata are the Polylimnio Waterfalls. 

There’s a 3km out and again path main you as much as the primary 25m Polyminio Waterfall, the stepped waterfall that creates the fifteen hidden turquoise and aqua lakes and smaller waterfalls. 

It’s a fairly straightforward path, though it does contain some rock scrambling so make sure to put on applicable sneakers. 

Don’t overlook to deliver your swimsuit. Though be ready for cold water, which is ideal on a sizzling Greek summer time day. I sadly left mine within the automotive! 

I cherished this hike. It felt like I had entered a magical fairy kingdom and the colour of the water was astounding – just like the glacier fed waters you’d see within the Rockies. 

In case you’re a nervous hiker, or don’t need to do it by yourself, you can join a guided hike. In any other case, I believe it’s straightforward to do by yourself.

Cease 2: Go to Voidokilia Seashore

sailing boat in water beside beach

From right here, proceed driving west till you attain Voidokilia Seashore, tucked past sand dunes and well-known for its distinctive horseshoe form, pristine white sands, and clear azure waters.

We visited on a gray day so didn’t get the total influence of its beautiful colours and its distinctive form curved like an enormous Greek omega – greatest seen from the 2 rocky promontories that outline the doorway of the seaside. 

Or the curvature additionally appears to be like like an ox’s stomach, which has ties to the that means of its identify, which originates from Voufras, which interprets as “the place oxen dwell.”

person walking along Voidokilia Beach

Due to the climate, we determined to forgo mountain climbing as much as the cliff high for that Instagrammable view. 

However I loved seeing its pristine magnificence from the shores of the bay. Its calmness makes it a great spot for swimming and snorkeling, 

This can be a protected space, so that you gained’t discover any improvement or services. Additionally protected, subsequent to the seaside is the Gialova Lagoon, a brackish physique of water that serves as a wildlife habitat, notably for migratory birds.

Day 7: Drive again to Athens

On the seventh and final day, it’s time to drive again to Athens or onto the following vacation spot of your journey.

FAQs About Visiting the Peloponnese

Listed below are some generally requested questions on visiting the Peloponnese…

The place is the Peloponnese?

The Peloponnese is a area on mainland Greece. It’s situated on the southern a part of the mainland of Greece, often called the Peloponnese peninsula, and covers an space of 21,550 sq. km.

What cities are within the Peloponnese?

The biggest metropolis within the Peloponnese is Patras. Another main cities and cities embrace Argos, Aigio, Amaliada, Corinth, Kalamata, Nafplio, Pyrgos, Tripoli, and Sparta.

What widespread cities are within the Peloponnese?

Among the hottest cities within the Peloponnese are Monemvasia, Kadamyli, Pylos, and Kyparissa.

Is it straightforward to drive within the Peloponnese?

Sure, it’s very straightforward to drive within the Peloponnese. The roads are a mixture of motorways and nationwide roads, so no dust roads.

The place to Keep within the Peloponnese

See a variety of accessible lodging choices for the Peloponnese within the useful map beneath. I’ve marked the lodging I stayed in (together with Athens) with a teal fort image.

High Promoting Excursions within the Peloponnese

Remaining Ideas on a Peloponnese Highway Journey

caz looking at Polylimnio Waterfall

Embarking on a Peloponnese Highway journey is an unimaginable alternative to immerse your self within the fascinating historical past and breathtaking landscapes of Greece.

From historical ruins to picturesque cities, vineyards to lovely seashores, this area presents one thing for everybody. So, pack your luggage, hit the highway, and put together for an unforgettable journey by way of the wonders of the Peloponnese.

I’m so grateful for the chance to discover this area and create many glad reminiscences. Journey is all about discovery, journey, connection, and self-growth. The Peloponnese provides you with all of that!

Completely satisfied travels!