Medieval Fortress City of Nafpaktos

It is a small historical and picturesque city, 216 kms from Athens, between Messolonghi and Delphi, opposite the Peloponnese. Built amphitheatrically on a hill at 200 metres, it has a small picturesque Venetian port at its foot.

In the 3.500 years of Nafpaktos history it has seen glorious chapters of Ancient, Byzantine, Venetian, and Ottoman periods. On top of the hill is the Castle of Nafpaktos with well preserved walls. The magnificient view from the top of Nafpaktos’castle encompasses the panorama of Corinthian and the opposite Peloponnesian line.

Its expansive beaches, pastel buildings set beside Venetian Walls, and veil of pine, palm, orange, and elm, make it one of the most beautiful cities of the Gulf of Corinth. Its climate is considered one of the best of the country. It is mild with a soft winter and a cool summer. For those who love sea and sun, there are some great beaches on the east and west ends.

Things to do:

Beaches: Two glourious golden sand blue flag beaches Psani and Gribovo, endowed giant trees by the seashore and showers and changing room facilities.

Nature Pursuits: Canoeing, rafting or kayaking on the river Evinos; a hike up mountains of Nafpaktia; for water sports visit the beaches of Chiliadou (11 km), Platanites/Monastiraki (12 km) and Marathias (17 km).

History: The Castle of Nafpaktos, The Clock & Bell Tower & Archaeological Museum.

Tip: Visit in the summer time for the Papacharalabia which sees a plethora of sports / arts events and participants from Greece and other countries. Ancient dramas are enacted within the nostalgic atmosphere of the castle. Also a perfect time for a visit is early October; the anniversary of the naval battle of Nafpaktos, when various events take place. Another great time for a visit is Easter. Especially on Good Friday all the town lights go out and big fires are lit by the castle guard rooms.

How to Reach

By Car: It is approx 3 hrs from Athens & from Delphi approx 2 hrs.

By Bus: From Athens (via Rion-Antirion) to Nafpaktos (2 departures per day) Departure: Terminal, 100 Kifissou Street, Athens. For information on departures and tickets: Athens Bus Authoritity (KTEL), tel.: (210) 51.29.292

From Thessaloniki to Nafpaktos (1 departure per day). For information on departures and tickets: Thessaloniki Bus Authoritity (KTEL), tel.: (2310) 52.15.18

By Flight: From Athens - The nearest airport to Nafpaktos is Aktion and is served by 6 flights per week from Athens

Mount Athos - Strictly Male, Secluded, Spiritual, Timeless !! (Macedonia, Greece)

If you are MALE and have the necessary permits the hallowed portals of Mount Athos, (also known as Agion Oros, or the 'Holy Mountain'), will become accessible to you. An edict of the Emperor Constantine Manomachos in the year 1060 (enforced till date), forbids women from setting foot on the peninsula. This stringent exclusion of females applies to domestic animals as well.

Mount Athos is the oldest surviving monastic community in the world.

It is a semiautonomous republic of the Greek Orthodox Church and is the eastern-most and most mountainous of the three peninsulas of Halkidiki. It has almost no natural harbours and no lowland areas. The peninsula is traversed by a huge, densely forested mountain mass, which terminates in the rocky summit of Mount Athos (2,033 m high) near the southernmost tip of the peninsula.

The mountain mass is cleft by deep ravines, along which flow deep torrents and countless streams. The sea is usually rough and in the winter stormy, so that there are many days of the year when it is difficult, if not impossible, to approach the shore. Because of it's isolation Mount Athos has remained one of the most unspoiled parts of Greece.

A MALE ONLY TERRITORY it is inhabited by around 3000 monks affiliated to the twenty large monasteries with fortified walls, other smaller monastic houses and remote mountain caves.

You may find the edict anachronistic and patriarchal but if you are male and are keenly interested in history and art, then this is a treasure trove. The monastery churches contain some of the finest examples of Byzantine art, icons and treasure. Their libraries hold a vast number of classical and medieval manuscripts.

And if you are interested in spiritualism and open to understanding the monastic way of life and how it has been practised through the ages, there is no better place to go. Though a few of the monasteries have electricity, most function as they did in medieval times. The monks grow their own food, spend long hours each day in prayer, and rarely venture out of the peninsula.

Whatever be your reason, once there in Mount Athos, be sure to be sensitive to the demands of the special environment. It is not only a living museum, but it is principally a place for prayer and contemplation, free from external influences. It is the monastic part of the Byzantine world has been preserved in this remote part and herein lies the timeless beauty of Mount Athos.

The religious history of Athos goes back long before the birth of Christianity. Homer mentions it as being the first home of the Greek gods Zeus and Apollo before Mt. Olympus. Pagan hermits have been known to have lived in the deep forests and mountain caves since prehistoric times. Athos first became a centre for Christian hermits and anchorites in the 6th and 7th centuries, and during the 8th and 9th centuries the hermits began to group together into small monastic communities. The era of the great monastic establishments began with the founding of the Great Lavra on the southeast coast of Athos in 963 AD. Under the protection of the Byzantine emperors, the building of monasteries flourished and at its pinnacle Mt. Athos had 40 monasteries habituated by 20,000 monks. When the Turkish armies captured nearby Thessaloniki in 1430, the monastic community prudently surrendered, thus remaining untouched and relatively autonomous. The long period of Turkish rule brought about a steady decline of the monasteries that was later somewhat alleviated by the patronage of the Russian Czars. In 1926, a decree by the Greek government made the Monks Republic an official part of Greece while allowing it to retain an autonomous theocratic government. Since the 1950’s there has been a gradual reawakening of interest in the monastic life

PERMITS:
Any Greek or foreign Orthodox Christian who wishes to visit Mount Athos must first get in touch with the Pilgrim Bureau in Thessaloniki (tel. (++30) 2310 833 733) or Ouranoupolis, Chalkidiki (tel. (++30) 23770 71 423) in order to obtain the Diamoneterion (visitation permit) which is valid for four calendar days.

Foreigners of other religious affiliations must apply to the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Directorate of Churches, 2, Zalokosta St, Athens, (tel. (++30) 210 362 6894) or the Ministry of Macedonia and Thrace, Directorate of Political Affairs, Plateia Diikitiriou, Thessaloniki, (tel. (++30) 2310 270 092) in order to obtain an entry permit for Mount Athos.

A maximum of 120 Orthodox Christian visitors are allowed per day, whereas foreigners of other religious affiliations are limited to 14 per day. These limits do not include persons that have explicit invitations from the monasteries. Source: macedonian-heritage.gr

HOW TO REACH

From Thessaloniki - Reach Ouranoupolis by private automobile or public transportation (KTEL buses of the Prefect of Chalkidiki, 68 Karakasi St., Thessaloniki (tel. (++30) 2310 924 444). There are daily departures to Ouranoupolis and Ierissos at 06:00, 08:30, 10:30, 14:30, 16:30, 18:30. The journey is approximately two hours long.

From Ouranoupolis (tel. (++30) 23770 71 248) there are daily freight and passenger boat trips at 9:45 to Daphne, the sea port of Mount Athos and to the monasteries of Zographou, Docheiariou, Xenofontos and Saint Panteleimon. Visitors to the monasteries of Simonos Petra, Gregoriou, Dionysiou, Saint Paul and the skete of Saint Anne change boats at Daphne. Finally, for the monasteries of Esphigmenou and Vatopedi in particular, the visitor may depart from Ierissos ((++30) 23770 22 576).

From Daphne to Karies, the capital of Mount Athos, is by bus (35 minutes). From Karies visitors may reach monasteries and sketae by 4WD mini buses or monastery vehicles. (tel. (++30) 23770 23 266, cel phone (++30) 6944 302 451).

Visitors who are serious about touring Mount Athos on foot will probably find the trekking guide written by Mark Dubin useful. Source: macedonian-heritage.gr

ACCOMODATION
Room and board in the monasteries and sketae is gratis and is valid for up to 24 hours. For the monasteries in particular, one is expected to telephone before visiting. Lodging is also available in small hotels in Daphne and Karyes.Relevant Telephone Numbers of the monasteries available on macedonian-heritage.gr

GENERAL GUIDELINES:
CLOTHES: Full sleeved top and full sleeved bottom
PHOTOGRAPHY: Use of photographic equipment is allowed across Mount Athos except within monastery interiors. For interior photography the permission of the monastery is required. Cinematography, video recordings and listening to music, as well as photographing monks are expressly forbidden.

OTHER USEFUL LINKS
History of Mount Athos;
Art of Mount Athos;
Architecture of Mount Athos;
The Monasteries of Mount Athos
International Status & Legal Framework of Mount Athos

Mount Olympus - The Spectacularly Sacred (Macedonia, Greece)

It is Greece's highest mountain and as per Greek mythology, the heavenly abode of the Twelve principal Greek gods (Zeus, the king of the gods, his wife Hera, brothers Poseidon and Hades, sisters Demeter and Hestia and children - Apollo, Artemis, Ares, Aphrodite, Athena, Hermes and Hephaestus).

The ancient sacred site today inspires thousands of hikers from all over the world to tackle the demanding trek to the highest peak in Greece. Once you reach there and take in the magnificence of the range it is easy to comprehend why the ancients chose this site to revere.

The entire area was declared Greece's first national park in 1937 and consists of eight peaks including the "Throne of Zeus" at 2909 metres and Mytikas which has the highest summit at 2919 metres. The park, located 100 kilometres to the south west of Thessaloniki is home to around 1700 plant species, shrouded with pine, beech, oak and cedar forests harbouring wildlife including wolves, bears and lynx. In winter the slopes are buried beneath two metres of snow and are only accessible to the most experienced climbers

HIKING MT OLYMPUS

Most serious climbers can complete the hike to the summit and back in a daytrip. Even for the less experienced two days is a good enough time frame as there are a large number of decent trails. Yet to experience the real magic of Olympus you may contemplate spending some quiet days in the woods.

You don't need any special climbing experience or equipment to take on Mt Olympus but you do need to be fit, properly equipped and have a good head for heights! Yet please don’t take the trek too lightly; it must be remembered that people have died climbing it. So please ensure the following for your own safety:

• Get a Map from the EOS office in Litohoro or the SEO office. They will provide you with a Greek map but having it is necessary.
• Warm clothes - even in the summer !!!
• Good climbing shoes
• Suncreen
• Hat / Helmet

The main base for hikers is the village of Lithoro, on the eastern border of the park. Regular bus services connect the village with Athens and Thessaloniki and there's a train station nine kilometres outside Lithoro.

Stay & Food: There are numerous places to stay including inexpensive hotels and campsites along the coast with good facilities. Lonely Planet recommends Olympios Zeus, Olympus Beach and Minerva. The least expensive hotel is the Markesia. The classiest hotel is the Mirto Hotel on the main square. There are plenty of restaurants and fast food places to eat.

Organized Tours: Most Greek travel agents arrange excursions to Mt Olympus with accommodation included (a hotel bed in Lithoro and a basic bunk in the mountain refuges that provide welcome overnight pit stops for hikers). Climbing Olympus is a major attraction and if you plan without a reservation in July or August you may have difficulty finding a bed for the night.

For sample routes and information you might find these links useful

Mount Olympus Hiking Six Peaks

A Hiking Route for Mt Olympus and Accommodation;

A Basic Map with the Refuges locations

For more information you can buy Lonely Planet's 'Trekking in Greece' or The Rough Guide.

Nearby Attractions
Ancient Dion - Visit the Archaeological Park and Museum at the foot of Mount Olympus. Sacred to the Macedonians, Alexander the great used to make sacrifices to the Gods here before going off to conquer the world. During the August Olympus Festival plays are performed at the restored ancient theatre.

HOW TO REACH

The main base for hikers is the village of Lithoro, on the eastern border of the park

By Car: From Athens OR Thessaloniki it's a relatively easy drive to Mt. Olympus. However, usual cautions about driving in Greece apply.

By Bus: From Athens OR Thessaloniki regular bus services connect the village.

By Train: From Athens OR Thessaloniki there are connections to Lithoro. But the train station is located nine kilometres outside of Lithoro.

Useful links: Matt Barrett's Guide

Macedonia the Hidden Gem of Greece (Mount Olympus, Vergina, Édessa, Prespa Lakes & Mount Athos)

Macedonia is the central region of northern Greece, most famously associated with its great kings, King Philip II and his son Alexander the Great, who made Makedonia the most powerful empire in Hellenic times, stretching all the way into Asia.It is also the birthplace of the great philosopher Aristotle.

Largely undiscovered by tourists, it has a great diversity of attractions to offer and interests to pursue. Areas of Interest in the region would include:

Mount Olympus - The Spectacularly Sacred

Vergina (Aigai) – The Ancient Capital of the Macedonian Kings

• Édessa - Of Waterfalls & Water-Mills

Prespa Lakes - A Natural Park of Incredible Beauty

&
Mount Athos - The 'Holy Mountain, (Agion Oros)' a semiautonomous republic of the Greek Orthodox Church

Ioannina - Distinctly Ottoman (Epirus, Greece)

Built on the bank of Lake Pamvotis at an altitude of 500 metres Ioannina is the biggest city of Epirus and the capital city of the prefecture. It is an enchanting city with monuments, cobblestone streets, alleys and traditional market stores that evoke a distinct Ottoman flavour, reminiscent of the rule of Ali Pasha.

Ioannina reflects the confluence of Oriental designs and Neo-Classical architecture. You can turn a corner and find yourself transferred from a typical 20th century commercial centre to a Middle Eastern bazaar. It is here that even today Oriental and Greek cultures are still interlinked. Visitor’s attractions include:

The Castle of Ioannina,

Pamvotis Lake & The Island Of Ioannina,

Perama Cave,

Archaeological Museum of Ioannina.

Twelve kilometres away from Ioannina in the region Mpizani are the wonderful Wax Effigies of Pavlos Vrellis which recreate the defining events of Greek History complete with characters, props and most important the near life like facial expressions. If you have time the Pavlos Vrellis Museum of Wax Effigies would make a rewarding visit.

But like all other Epirus destinations the real charm lies in the natural surroundings and the opportunities that lie within easy reach - Vikos Gorge & the picturesque villages of Zagoria; Metsovo a traditional charming mountain village; & Dodoni the archaeological site of the oldest Hellenic Oracle

HOW TO REACH
Bus: Ioannina is connected by bus to Athens (7 hrs), Thessaloniki (6 hrs), Igoumenitsa (1.5 hrs, ferry boat connection to Italy and Corfu) and other important cities. The two bus stations are located downtown.

Ferry: A hydroplane connection between the island of Corfu and Ioannina has recently started. The hydroplane takes off from the port of Corfu and lands onto the lake of Ioannina.

Flight: The Ioannina National Airport - King Pirrhus is located 4km from the city centre (contact details +30 26510 83600) and has domestic flight links with Athens, Thessaloniki. There is also an international flight per week to Tirana (Albania).

Nekromanteion, the Oracle of the Dead (Epirus, Greece)

The most famous ancient Greek world Nekromanteion, the Oracle of the Dead, lies near the northwest shores of the Lake Acherousian, where Acheron and Kokytos, the Rivers of Hades, meet. Ancient literary sources describe the Acherousian Lake as the place where the dead began their descent to Hades.

The Nekromanteion attracted people wishing to meet the souls of the dead, as these were able to foresee the future after having left their body. (Spookkyy!!!)

References to this site are found in Homer’s Odyssey, when Circe advises Ulysses to meet Teiresias, in the underworld in order to receive an oracle for his return to Ithaka. Homer also gives a vivid account of the mortal Odysseus's descent to Hades. The resemblance between the setting described by Homer and the site of the nekromanteion is astonishing, a fact also noted almost one thousand years later by Pausanias, who argues that Homer had visited this area.

Also interesting monument near the site is the chapel with the Black Madonna Painting. For more details click here

Other Links:
Photographs of Nekromanteion;
Map of Nekromanteion;

Dodona - Oldest Hellenic Oracle (Epirus, Greece)

The Site of Dodona located in Epirus, was the site of the oldest Hellenic Oracle, according to the fifth-century historian Herodotus and in fact dates to pre-Hellenic times, perhaps as early as the second millennium BCE.

The oracle at Dodona is mentioned in the Odyssey XIV and in Plato's Phaedrus: “They used to say, my friend, that the words of the oak in the holy place of Zeus at Dodona were the first prophetic utterances”.

Worship at Dodona dates back at least five thousand years, when the Earth goddess was venerated. The oracle is devoted to Dione (Earth Goddess) and her consort Zeus. Priestesses and priests in the sacred grove interpreted the rustling of the oak (or beech) leaves to determine the correct actions to be taken.
In the fourth century BCE, a small stone temple to Zeus added to the site.
In the third century BC, King Pyrrhus grandly rebuilt the Temple of Zeus, and added many other buildings including one of the biggest Greek amphitheatres, which still remains in good condition. A festival featuring athletic games, musical contests, and drama were enacted here. Today each summer it comes alive for a festival of ancient plays.
Detailed list of Site Monuments

Archaeological excavations have recovered artifacts as early as the Mycenaean era. They are displayed at the National Archaeological Museum of Athens, and the archaeological museum of Ioannina

For more details we suggest you to visit the following links:
The Official Website; Hellenic Ministry Dodona; Official Practical Information;

Other Interesting Reads Include:
About Dodoni; Dodona, the Forgotten, Unforgettable Oracle; Sanctuary of Zeus at Dodona;
Dodona Oracle Photographs

HOW TO REACH
Dodona lies off the beaten path hence public transport connections are sparse. Most visitors make a base in the lakeside town of Ioannina.

From Ioannina:
By Car: It is approximately 22 Kilometres and self driving is the best option. You can also hire a taxi.
By Bus: There are also direct buses from Ioannina but it is only three days a week. It’s best to check and verify before you confirm your plans.

For more information For more information on how to reach

Metsovo - Enjoying the simplicity of a traditional mountain village (Epirus, Greece)

It is a beautiful traditional village built like an amphitheatre on the slopes of Pindos at an altitude of 1200 metres, at the junction of Epirus, Thessaly and Western Macedonia. It stands on the southern end of northern Pindos and extends between Mt Mavrovouni to the north (altitude 2.160m.) and Mt. Lakmos or Peristeri to the south (altitude 2.295m.), two of the highest mountains of Epirus.

The economy is mostly sustained on traditional occupations namely wood processing (carvings, furniture, iconostases, barrels, beehives etc), cattle breeding, cheese making, agriculture and of late tourism. A visit here is highly recommended if you want to sample a traditional Greek mountain life. Local attractions include churches & monasteries, museums & art galleries, but the real stealer is the traditional way of life that can be experienced here away from the maddening crowds and the natural beauty that surrounds it. The Aoos River which flows to the north and through Albania into the Adriatic Sea rises here and has lead to the creation of an artificial lake.

One of the best ways to enjoy the breathtaking beauty that is inherent to the Region of Epirus is amble on a leisurely pace, enjoying nature's treasures up close and at your own pace.

Nature Activities

We found the following links really useful for the nature based activities that can be pursued here: Walk & Picnic; Go Fishing; Mule & Horse Riding; Skiing; Climbing; Mountain Biking; Off Road Vehicle; Kayaking; Sky Diving; Mountaineering; Cross Country Skiing; River Rafting.

Also Metsovo can be used as a base for excursions to the Nearby Attractions.

Detailed Map of Metsovo; More on Metsovo; About Metsovo; Metsovo history;

HOW TO REACH
By Car - From Athens the shortest route is via Meteora, along the National Road Athens -Trikala (5 hours). About one hour longer is the journey via Ioannina, following the opposite direction along the National Road Athens -Patra.

From Thessalonika the shortest route is via Meteora (about 4 hours/350 kilometres).

From Corfu - after taking the ferry to Igoumenitsa port, you can drive to Metsovo via Ioannina (1 hour and a half).

By Flight - Nearest Domestic Airport is Ioannina post which Metsovo is 50 minutes drive away. There are daily, two flights from Athens to Ioannina (55 minutes) and one flight from Thessalonika to Ioannina (40 minutes). Source http://www.epcon.gr/; More on How to Reach

Traversing the Vikos Gorge & discovering Zagoria, (Epirus, Greece)

The Zagoria region in the Pindos Mountains is a hidden gem where sleepy villages nestle beneath towering pine-clad peaks, and the heat of the summer is tempered with cool mountain air and dips in natural pools. Even at the height of summer, temperatures are pleasant in the high mountains, while dense forest shades the lower canyons.

A hiking heaven it offers spectacular routes through the deep Vikos Gorge which averages 700 metres in depth and is the second longest in Europe after the much busier Samarian Gorge, Crete.

The 12-kilometer gorge itself can be hiked in two or three parts:

• Monodendri north to Vikos
• Vikos to Papingo
• Monodendri south to Kipi

Highlights of a trek through this region includes the deserted monastery of Agia Paraskevi, perched in an eagle's nest position high over the Canyon; the cobbled streets of tiny rural hamlets with their preserved Zagorian styled old mansions, ancient tracks over elegant stone packhorse bridges, the Vaidomatis River that runs through the gorge and the ascent up to Drakolimni (Dragon Lake) which offers breathtaking views out over the mountains and gorges. However it’s recommended not to try hiking alone in this region as it is very easy to get lost and the gorge is still refuge to many wild animals such as bears, boars and birds of prey. Hence it’s best to engage the services of an experienced guide to hike around the Vikos Gorge.

Most trails up the demanding Gamila Massif (2497 metres) are steep and lengthy. Using the Gamila refuge as a base, day hikes can be made to Drakolimni of Gamila, the peaks of Gamila and Astraka and explore the Mega Lakko Ravine. Arrangements for use of the refuge must be made at the EOS office in Megalo Papingo (Tel. 30-265-3041138). They also provide information and maps.

For more information visit the following links:
Map of Zagori Villages; A Vikos Hike Travelogue complete with pictures of the region
The Daily Traveller - The Grand Canyon of Greece; About Zagori; Matt Barrett's Greece Travel;
HOW TO REACH

By Car - From Athens via Ioannina which is a seven hour drive. take the National Highway to Larissa. An excellent primary road travels west from Larissa to Ioannina via Trikala and over the Katara Pass. This portion is an interesting and scenic drive that passes the famous monasteries of Meteora and through gorgeous mountain landscapes. Most of the access roads to Zagoria are located between Metsovo and Konitsa along the main highway from Ioannina to Kastoria. Past Ioannina, the first villages of the Zagori is only 16 kilometres away. However extreme caution needs to be taken while driving as apart from the mountain road being steep, narrow, and winding, local drivers do drive a bit recklessly around hairpin curves.

By Bus - From Athens to Ioannina post that onward connection to the Zagori villages. Do visit the website for more information.

By Flight – Nearest airport Ioannina which is served by domestic connections including flights from Athens

The Best of Epirus Region, Greece (Vikos Gorge & Zagoria, Metsovo, Ioannina, Dodoni, Nekromanteion

Epirus has the strongest regional identity in mainland Greece, bordering the peripheries of West Macedonia and Thessaly to the east, Central Greece to the south, the Ionian Sea and the Ionian Islands to the west and Albania to the north.

It owes its character to an unrelenting mountainous terrain (Pindus Range), forested gorges & wild rivers. These natural fortifications have been successful in protecting and isolating the region from outside interventions, even to a great extent from the Ottoman Rule. Their roles in ancient Greek affairs were relatively insignificant with only four archaeological sites of any importance, out of which two are isolated Oracles. But the regions attraction lies in its sheer physical beauty with limestone peaks and dense forests which provides an enchanting background to traditional stone built villages and arched packhorse bridges. Areas of interest in this region of Greece would include

Nature Trails

• Vikos Gorge & Zagoria - The deepest gorge in the world by the Guinness Book of Records, it offers a landscape of awesome beauty, as the walls of the canyon reach at some points the height of 1 kilometre and the crystal clear waters of Voidomatis River run through it in a spectacular route.
• Up on the mountains of Pindus some 45 picturesque villages called Zagoria or Zagorohoria offer unforgettable images to the visitor: traditional architecture and a unique folkloric character, countless centuries-old bridges and water fountains, cobble-stone meandering streets and passages, stone-built churches and tiny chapels and Mount Tymfi with its highest peak Gamila & Smolikas for the serious and seasoned trekkers.
  
• Metsovo (County of Ioannina) - an easily accessible charming village and should be visited if you want to savour the taste of Greek mountain life

Archaeological & Historic Interests

• Archaeological site of Dodoni Oracle - The oldest Hellenic oracle, dedicated to Zeus and the Mother Goddess. The site also includes an amphitheatre dating to the 3rd century BC.
  Lakeside town of Ioannina - It is the historical, cultural and commercial hub of the Epirus region. It was the capital of the tyrant Ali Pasha. The old town is strewn by the remains of the Ottoman quarters (the mosque, old fortifications) Ottoman-flavored bazaar and inexpensive eateries rimming the lake.

Ancient Nekromanteion, Oracle of the Dead (County of Preveza) - Located on a cliff near the shores of the lake Acherousia, at the junction of the rivers Kokytos and Acheron. According to the ancient Greek mythology, the Acheron river (‘river of woe’) was a branch of the underworld river Styx over which Charon ferried the newly dead souls across into Hades. So it is here, at the Nekromanteion, that the ancients believed were the Gates to the Dead. (Spooky)

Lake Plastiras - Thessaly, Greece

Set at an altitude of about 800 meters in the Agrafa mountain range, the man-made Lake Plastiras and its surrounding area is offers spectacular natural beauty and magnificent views.

Outdoors Activities:

It offers you the opportunity to walk, drive or bike along fir, oak and chestnut trees, down shady lanes with openings to views of immense height and the vast plains below. Fishing, sailing, kayaking, river rafting, hiking, horseback riding, mountain climbing, cross country skiing and jeep tours are other options available.

There are several small villages surrounding the lake. The villages of Kryoneri and Kalivia are well developed for tourism and here you will find hiking tracks, hotels, places to rent sports equipments, organized outdoor areas and the beaches of the lake. The tourist haven and best-known village, Neochori, is worth visiting as it was built on a slope and offers the best views of the lake.
You can buy local products (like honey, spoon sweets, frumenty, garden products, wine, raki and more) from the producers of the region along the road.

Important monuments and places of interest in the wider region includes the Monastery of Korona, Pelekiti and Petra, and the Gaki and the Kaimakia Caves.

More Information on Lake Plastiras
Accommodation - Greekhotel.com

Mount Pelion and the Pelion Peninsula, (Thessaly Greece)

PELION / PILO/PILIO/PELIO/PILION

The verdant Pelion peninsula with its snow capped mountain, great stretches of sandy beaches and green blue seas, is situated in the prefecture of Magnesia in Thessaly, Central Greece.

Scattered across the Peninsula are around 70 villages, from the famous mountainous villages of Tsagarada, Portaria and Zagora, to the beautiful coastal resorts of Kala Nera, Milina and Platanias and can be toured year round.

Its beaches are spread around the Pagasitic Gulf and Aegean Sea and are good for bathing, watersports or simply lazing. Summer is relatively cooler, especially in the mountains whilst in winter; it becomes a good destination for skiing

Ski Centre of Mount Pelion
Agriolefkes on Mount Pelion (2km from the mountainous village of Hania, 12km from the village of Portaria, and 27km from the city of Volos) is one of the first ski centres to operate in Greece The four slopes of "Thetis", "Falconera", "Panorama" and the "Amateurs" slope all combine to make a total length of 5000m. The centre is very popular during the winter months and apart from skiing, other winter activities include snowboarding and mountain artillery ski. The centre provides other facilities such as a cafeteria, parking as well as accommodation. However for a better choice in accommodation the nearby villages of Hania, Portaria and Makrinitsa should be explored.

Beaches in Pelion Greece:
With both the Aegean Sea on the eastern coast and the Pagsitic Gulf on the southern part of the peninsula it offers some great sand and white pebble beaches and ‘Blue Flag’ coastal resorts.

For more information on Pelion Beaches






Popular Beaches on the Pagasitic Gulf:

1. Kato Lehonia Beach More information;
2. Kala Nera Beach: ‘Blue Flag,’ More information Hotels and Accommodation in Kala Nera;
3. Boufa Beach: the largest and the most popular beach in Pelion situated between the villages of Kala Nera and Afissos
4. Afissos Beach: soft sand beaches. More information Hotels and Accommodation in Afissos

Popular Beach on the Aegean Sea:

1. Mikro Beach: one of the most beautiful and very popular during summer. More information Hotels and Accommodation in Mikro;
2. Kastri Beach: very popular with windsurfers. More information
3. Paltsi (Agios Konstantinos) Beach: More information Hotels and Accommodation in Paltsi;
4. Potistika Beach: can be good for a peaceful and relaxing holiday. More information Hotels and Accommodation in Potistika;
5. Milopotamos Beach ( Tsagarada ): More information Hotels and Accommodation in Tsagarada;
6. Fakistra Beach ( Tsagarada ): The beach is surrounded by large rocks and greenery; Papa Nero Beach: a lovely sandy one, where the mountains stretch down to the sea. More information;
7. Agios Ioannis Beach: popular holiday resort in Pelion. More information Hotels and Accommodation in Agios Ioannis;
8. Agioi Saranta Beach: More information;
9. Horefto Beach: lush suuroundings and a tranquil environment More information

Main City, Volos:
The capital city of the region of Magnesia is built at the foot of the mountain of Pelion. The ancient city "Dimitrias", established in the 3rd century BC by the Macedonian king "Dimitrios the Sieger", is situated a little further from modern day Volos. Of the important sites, the most important are The Athanassakeion Archaeological Museum and the archaeological sites of Sesklo, Dimini and Fthiotides Thives. More Information on Volos

Museums and Archaeological sites in Pelion Greece

1. The Athanassakeion Archaeological Museum, Volos, is the most important museum in the region. The Museum houses a selection of interesting artefacts and various objects of antiquity. Visitors to the museum will also see a great collection from the Paleolithic and Neolithic Age. The collections include a collection of Neolithic figurines, clay models and vases. Gold Jewellery and coins from both Thessaly and other parts of the ancient Greek world are also on display.
   Address: 1 Athanasaki Street in Volos. Telephone ( +30 ) 24210 25285. Opening hours for the museum are Tuesday-Sunday: 08.30-15.00. The museum is closed on Mondays. Contact the museum to confirm that opening times if you are planning a visit, as they are subject to change.


2. The Museum of Art Folklore - Makrinitsa, Pelion


3. The Greek Museum (Old school of "Rigas”) - Zagora, Pelion
   
4. The Aggelinis Museum - Horto, Pelion


5. The Old Library - Milies, Pelion

Archaeological Sites around Pelion:

There are several ancient archaeological sites around Volos and Pelion including those of Dimini (Neolithic & a very important Mycenaean Settlement, later identified as ancient Iolkos, the city of Jason), Sesklo (one of the main Neolithic Settlements in Greece, as well as of Europe) and Fthiotides Thebes (Late Roman to Early Christian years).

We found the following very interesting Travel Routes on AroundPelion.com

1. Travel Route 1 - Starting from Afissos village, and passing through various villages ending at Trikeri village. The Complete Travel Route 1
   
2. Travel Route 2 - Starting from Afissos village, and passing through various villages ending at Platania village. The Complete Travel Route 2


3. Travel Route 3 - Starting and returning to Afissos village, passing through Milies, Vizitsa and Ano Lehonia. The Complete Travel Route 3
   
4. Travel Route 4 - Starting and returning to Afissos village, passing through Tsagarada, Makrinitsa and Volos. The Complete Travel Route - 4

Suggested Links for more info on Pelion
More Information on Travelling to Pelion; More Information on Travelling around Pelion
Pelion Hotels Accommodation; Camping in Pelion Greece; Photo Gallery

Surreal Monasteries of Meteora, (Thessaly, Greece)

One of the most visually stunning and spectacular places in Greece is the designated UNESCO World Heritage Site of Meteora. I recommend a visit to Meteora to experience the surreal marvels of man and nature, if not for, spiritual, religious, historic & academic interests.

In the middle of northern Greece, at the western region of the Thessaly plain, beside the Pindhos Mountains, sandstone rocks formed 60 million years ago rise from the ground, atop which are perched the monasteries of Meteora. The rocks themselves are so overwhelming that it takes a while to notice the monasteries. Gloriously incongruous at noon, silhouetted against the setting sun, eerie and huge in the floodlights at night, they're an awesome sight. Featured in a James Bond movie, the rocks are an adrenaline booster to both, professional and amateur rock-climbers.

Originally the monks, seeking solitude, settled in the caves within the rocks, a thousand years ago. But Turkish rule, forced them to climb higher and higher up the sheer rock face, till they had built the monasteries on virtually inaccessible peaks. The monasteries embody the sheer tenacity of the monks and exemplify their architectural feat in building complex structures at a time, when access was limited to ropes, ladders and nets. During the Turkish occupation Greek culture and traditions were kept alive in these monasteries. It attracted not only the pilgrims, but also the philosophers, poets, painters and the intellectuals of Greece.

Today of the two dozen monasteries, only six are active. They are full with religious treasures, wall paintings, icons and libraries rich in old manuscripts.

Agios Nikolaos (St, Nicholas) Anapafsas: built in the 16th Century by Dionysius; it features splendid frescoes by the 16th-century Cretan painter & monk Theophanes.

Agia Triada (Holy Trinity): founded by the monk Dometius in the 15th century, it is perched atop a slender pinnacle, only accessible by 140 steep steps. Its solitariness is further enhanced by the only two resident monks. The remoteness of its spectacular location was famously used for the James Bond film ‘For Your Eyes Only’.

Roussanou Monastery: founded in 1545 by two brothers Joasaph and Maximos, on the ruins of an even older church. It contains outstanding wall paintings, wood & panel icons and icon stands.

Agios Stephanos (St. Stephen): an active nunnery with an important relic: the head of St. Charalambos, whose powers include warding off illness. It has uninterrupted view of the plain towards Kalambaka.

Great Meteoron: built upon the highest rock, it is the best known Meteora Monastery. The Serbian Emperor Symeon Uros became a monk and donated his entire wealth to it, thereby making it the richest and most powerful of all the monasteries. It contains some of the most gruesome frescoes of Early Christian sufferings at the hands of the Romans, as well as, beautiful wall paintings and post Byzantine Mural art.

Varlaam Monastery founded in 1517 by Theophanis and Nektarios Apsaradas it houses an important collection of relics, intricately carved wooden crosses, icons, embroidered epitaphoi and many other ecliastical treasures. It also contains frescos by the well-known post Byzantine iconographer Frangos Katelanos.

More details: Greeklandscapes Meteora; Wikipedia Meteora Monastery; meteora-greece.info; Greek Official Website; greecetaxi.gr/meteora

Monastery Open Timings

Other Practical Info:
There is an entry fee to enter each of the monasteries and as prevalent in most of the Greek monasteries proper attire is required. Women in knee length skirts and arms fully covered, men in full length trousers and shirts.

All the monasteries are connected by a series of path works and if you begin early you can cover all in one day. They are also connected by roads so if you are coming by car and don't have all day to wander around you can also get close enough and then continue on foot. The Lonely Planet Guide to Greece is handy when it comes to instructions on how to get from one monastery to another but don’t panic if you aren’t carrying one, local guidebooks are just as useful.

Other Attractions /Activities:

Kastraki is a popular destination for rock climbers and walkers

Adventure Sports: Meteora is also a great place to go rock climbing and Trekking. Hellas has a rock climbing school for beginners as well as programs in the area for beginners and advanced climbers. They also organize ultralight flights, paragliding and parachuting for all those who like to live on the edge.

In Kalambaka: Two sights of importance: The Cathedral of the Dormition of the Virgin & The Cave of Theopetra which has revealed signs of being inhabited since the Middle Palaeolithic Period and therefore demonstrates the transition from the Palaeolithic to the Neolithic way of life in Greece.

Many people do Delphi in combination with Meteora.

Accommodation:

Most people stay at the two closest villages to Meteora are Kalambaka and Kastraki each within 15mins walking distance of each other. For more details: kalampaka.com; hotelsintrikala.gr; Matt Barrett's Hotel Guide

How to Reach

By Bus: There are several connections from Athens to Trikala and then further to Kalambaka.

By Tour: Meteora is on the tour circuit. Several tour companies offer a day or more combined with other sites. Do check Dolphin Hellas Travel, Fantasy Travel, Viator for more details

Rent A Car - Swift in Athens is recommended by Matt Barrett for good rates, a Plaka location and the added benefit of them picking you up from the airport or your hotel and driving you to the National Road so that you don't have to negotiate with the crazy Athens traffic. Check www.greektravel.com/swift. Off course there are a host of other options that can be explored online (travelsupermarket.com, europcar.com, etc)

By Train

From Athens take the train to Volos. From there take the connecting to Kalambaka.

From Thessaloniki - There is a connection to and fro from here

By Taxi: You can travel by Taxi at your own comfort or pace, for further details click on http://www.greecetaxi.gr/. Or you can travel with George the Famous Taxi Driver in an air-conditioned Mercedes. He even handles the hotel arrangements and you can combine it with other sites or check

Exploring Thessaly, Greece (Mt Pelion / Pilio, Monasteries of Meteora, Lake Plastira)

Located above the region of Central Greece is the picturesque prefecture of Thessaly (Thessalia). Bordering with the Aegean Sea on the east it offers a varied landscape abound with natural beauty and makes a perfect round the year holiday destination. Easily accessible from both North and South Greece the destinations worth visiting would include:

Mount Pelion / Pilio (County of Magnesia) - Offers the perfect combination of sea and mountain. During the summer season, the beautiful beaches all around the coast are full of people enjoying the summer sun and sea. During the winter season, visitors descend onto Mount Pelion for its fantastic ski centre. Other winter sports and activities also take place here.

Cliff Hanging Monasteries of Meteora (County of Trikala) – An out of the world experience, the stunning monasteries are located right at the top the gigantic rocks and needs to be seen to be believed.

Lake Plastira (County of Trikala) - The area is one of immense natural beauty, and is a place that visitors will instantly fall in love with.

Check my other blogs for more information

Sacred Delphi - Sanctuary and Oracle of Apollo (Central Greece)

A designated UNESCO World Heritage site is located in central Greece, amidst a stunning landscape. Site of the Sanctuary and Oracle of Apollo, it was the most important sacred site of Ancient Greece.

Originally in Delphi the Earth Goddess was venerated (two earlier temples had stood on the site), before the arrival of the cult of Apollo. According to legend, the serpent Python, child of the Greek Goddess Gaia (Earth), was the ancient guardian of Delphi's Castalian Spring before being killed by Apollo. Ancient Greeks considered Delphi, the centre of the world, the place where Zeus’s two eagles met from opposite ends of the earth.

The archaeological site of Ancient Delphi is widespread. The modern visitor follows exactly the "Sacred Way" that was followed by ancient pilgrims. The path begins at the southeast corner and winds its way up the hillside, past ancient treasuries and monuments, to the Temple of Apollo which lies immediately beyond and just above the Delphi Museum.

According to Homer, Apollo himself founded the Oracle of Delphi. Pilgrims included Kings, Generals and individuals of all ranks came to the Oracle of Delphi to ask Apollo's advice on the best course to take in war, politics, love and family.

The famous Oracles were delivered in a small chamber in the Temple of Apollo, which was the sole domain of the Pythia. The Pythia (named for the python slain by Apollo) was a priestess who spoke as a possessed medium for Apollo, the Greek God of Prophecy. Whilst delivering Oracles, the Pythia was said to be in a mild trance and spoke for Apollo in an altered voice and often chanted her cryptic pronouncements, which were then translated, written down and sealed by a priest and given to the inquirer. No copies of any answers have yet been found.

The Oracle only functioned on certain days and under specific circumstances. The oracle of Delphi was abolished in 393 AD by Emperor Theodosius, who made Christianity the official religion of the Byzantine Empire.

Numerous Treasuries were built in the Sanctuary of Apollo to house votive offerings of grateful pilgrims. Out of them The Treasury of the Athenians is one of the most important and impressive buildings

The Sanctuary of Athena is on the lower slopes of Holy Mt. Parnassus, a 10-minute walk past the museum and has the picturesque remains of the famous Tholos - a round structure ringed by 20 slender Doric columns.

The Castalian Spring, located between the two sanctuaries was the source of the chemical vapours, which influenced / inspired the Pythia's oracles and induced the trance like euphoric state. It was perhaps the reason why the site was chosen as the abode of Apollo. Two fountains fed by the sacred spring survive: an ancient (early 6th century BC) fountain house with a marble-lined basin surrounded by benches, and a Roman fountain with niches for votive gifts. In classical times, all pilgrims to Delphi stopped here to ritually bathe before entering the sacred precinct.

The Pythian Games of Delphi were one of the four Pan-Hellenic games, attracting competitors from all over ancient Greece. It began with music and poetry but soon, athletic competitions were added, the best known being a great chariot race. The Theatre of Delphi, just above the Temple of Apollo, with 35 rows of seats and a seating capacity of 5,000 was the venue for the musical contests (song and instrumental music) while The Stadium Of Delphi situated north-west of the theatre, above the sanctuary of Apollo, in the highest part of the ancient city was the venue for the athletic events took place

Other site remains include the Ancient Gymnasium, The Treasury of the Siphnians; The Stoa of the Athenians; The votive offering of Daochos

Archaeological excavations began in earnest around 1900 and the findings are displayed in the on-site Delphi Museum, one of the most important museums in Greece Its rich collections are comprised primarily of architectural sculpture, statues and minor objects donated to the sanctuary. These reflect its religious, political and artistic activities from its early years in the eight century BC to its decline in Late Antiquity.

The star exhibit is the famous 474 BC Charioteer of Delphi, a larger-than-life bronze which originally included a four-horse chariot. It portrays a handsome youth whose delicate eyelashes shade wide enamel-and-stone eyes whilst realistic veins stand out in his hands and feet. It was a gift from the wealthy Sicilian city of Gela to honour its tyrant Polyzalos's chariot victory here.

Today the Festival of Delphi is held each summer (usually in June) and features ancient Greek drama and works inspired by ancient drama. Tickets and schedules are usually available at the European Cultural Center of Delphi's Athens office at 9 Frynihou, Plaka (tel. 210/331-2798), and at the canter’s Delphi office (tel. 22650/82-733), just out of town on the Itea road (set back from the road in a grove of trees). For more Administrative Information regarding contact address & numbers, tickets and site open & closed dates, click on the following link Official Administrative Info

More Information: Official Website of Delphi; Sacred Destinations; Odyssey Adventures; Olympia Greece / Delphi (Interesting Video footage); National Geographic Delphi Oracle; Matt Barrett’s Delphi

How to Reach:
From Athens by Car: You can also easily visit Delphi as a day trip, as it is a scenic 2.5-hour drive northwest from Athens. You take the National Road that goes north to Thebes and then go west, through Livadia to Delphi. For Rent A Car options check Matt Barrett's Reccomendation for Swift;

From Athens by Bus: There are several buses that leave daily for Delphi from Athens. The trip takes about three hours and more information can be obtained at http://www.ktel.org/; Matt Barrett's practical info

From Patras by Bus: There is also a daily bus to and from Patras which is helpful if you are coming from or going to Italy.

There is also a bus to Larissa where you can change for a bus to Meteora.

Delphi is also included in many guided tours, ranging from day trips from Athens to extended tours (read mostly Meteora) of Greece.

Nearby Attractions: http://www.greecetravel.com/delphi/arachova.htm

Accommodation: There are several good hotels near the ruins.

Exploring Central Greece - Delphi, Nafpaktos & Mount Parnassos

The must visit in Central Greece would include:

The UNESCO World Heritage Site of Delphi (prefecture of Fokida) - Located amidst a stunning mountainous landscape, the ruins mark the most important sacred site of Ancient Greece. The temple of Delphi is the second most visited tourist attraction in all of Greece, after the Parthenon in Athens and can be reached easily from Athens. Fokida is almost an entirely mountainous area, which makes it a haven for hikers, and those who love adventure and alternative holidays.

The medieval fortress city of Nafpaktos (prefecture of Etoloakarnania)

Mount Parnassos, (prefecture of Viotia) - Close to Athens it is a popular winter ski destination.

For the Ski Trail map visit: http://gr.snow-forecast.com/pistemaps/Mount-Parnassos_pistemap_full.jpg

Check my other blogs for more info on Delphi, Nafpaktos & Mount Parnassos

Kalavrita - A journey through Vouraikos Gorge, The Cave of the Lakes, Ski Tracks & Greek War Monuments - (Peloponnese, Greece)

You can drive all the way up, but it is highly recommended to take the Vouraikos River, Funicular Railway from the coastal town of Diakofto all the way up to Kalavrita.

Built in 1885 by the Italians, the train traverses around 20 Kms on the narrow gauge tracks through a fine gorge, following the stream bed of River Vouriakos, winds up into the mountains through tunnels, past water-falls, along cliffs and through forests of pine and oleander. The hour long journey is one of the most spectacular train rides in the world. If you plan to take this wonderful journey, it is recommended by the Lonely Planet Guide to get first class tickets as those seats have the best view.

There are numerous Hiking Trails in the area. If you want to hike up the challenging Vouraikos Gorge, then you can alight at the small village of Zachlorou. An hour walk from the village of Zachlorou is the spectacular site of The Holy Monastery of Mega Spileo (“Grand Cave”). Built in a giant cave in 326 AD, it is full of beautiful frescoes, mosaic floors and other treasures. You will also be rewarded with a fantastic view of Mount Chelmos, Mount Petruki and the Ladopotamos River. Many people walk down through the gorge to Diakofto.

Post Zachlorou you arrive in Kalavrita.

Of importance are the following monuments:

• The Monument of the Holocaust of Kalavrita (the Place of Sacrifice): a memorial for the villagers who had been brutally executed by the Nazis. A large white cross stands on top of the Hill of Kappi overlooking the town and massive stone monuments list the names of the dead. The white stones spell out the words "Peace" and "No More War".


• To understand the brutality of the deed and the pathos of those who survived "The Drama of Kalavrita" by Dimitris Kaldiris and a visit to The Municipal Museum of the Holocaust of Kalavrita can be eye opening.


• Just outside town are the The Holy Monastery of Agia Lavra - The first flag of freedom was raised here in March 1821, by Bishop Germanos, indicating the Greeks rebellion against the Turks.


• Across the road on another mountain is The Monument of the Heroes of the Revolution of 1821 which honours the brave souls of the revolution. From here you can enjoy a spectacular view of the whole valley which is surrounded by pine covered mountains.

Around Kalavryta
Kalavrita Ski Center – It is located 14 kms from Kalavrita, complete with modern facilities and recognized as one of the best in Greece.

If you are interested in Greek mythology, an excursion to The Waters of Styx and the Mavroneri Waterfall can be made. This is where Achilles was baptized and achieved immortality, (with the exception of the spot on his heel where his mother held him).

Another place of steeped in mythological references and of great natural beauty is the River Ladonas – Lake Ladonas. Ladonas is one of Ancient Greece’s mythical rivers.

The Holy Monastery of the Assumption of the Virgin of Makellaria – famous for its wonder-working icon of the Virgin. It is a work of art from the Byzantine period, admired by all for its particular feature of giving the impression that wherever you stand the Virgin’s eyes follow you.

The Holy Chapel of Panagia Plataniotissa - the small chapel is tucked inside the hollow of a large plane tree, which can hold as many as 20 people.

There are also several archaeological sites scattered throughout the hills and mountains around Kalavrita including the Archaeological Site of the Ancient City of Klitor; Archaeological Site Of Ano Lousoi; Pafsania’s Vine Branch

The Cave of the Lakes – it is located on the way from Kalavrita to Klitoria at an altitude of 827m.The cave is endowed with a unique geomorphologic character not found anywhere else in the world. 13 lakes are arranged in a cascading format at three different levels inside the cave. The cave is fed by snow melts which are canalised through swallow-holes and underground natural channels. Although the existence of the cave has been known since ancient times, its second level was not discovered until 1964. In the lower level (inaccessible) were found human and animal fossils of Paleontological importance, as well as remnants of pottery dating back to the Neolithic and the early Helladic period. In 1981, the cave was opened to the public. The cave covers an area of 20,000 square meters, of which only 1,980 have been explored and 350 have been arranged for tourist visits. The visitor enters the cave through an artificial tunnel which leads directly to the second floor. There is a metal walkway that follows the string of cascading lakes and climbs through the subterranean passageway complete with magnificent multicoloured stalactites and stalagmites. In winter when the snow melts, the cave is transformed into a subterranean river with natural waterfalls. In the summer months, part of the cave dries up revealing a lace-work of stone-basins and dams of up to 4 m in height. The rest of the cave retains water permanently throughout the year in 13 picturesque lakes.Tours are taken through the cave every half hour or so and the guide speaks in English and Greek. The cave is open to the public all year round; facilities include a waiting room and a tourist kiosk. You are not allowed to take pictures, but the postcards they sell at the kiosk are good enough.

Some interesting links on Kalavrita are: Off-Road Outings By Jeep; en.wikipedia.org/Kalavryta; http://www.kalavrita.gr/DynSITE/?lang=en; Matt Barrett's - Kalavrita

How to Reach

• By Car: If you drive from Athens, you take the national road that goes south to Corinth and then you follow the signs for Patra. You turn for Kalavrita in the conjunction of Diakofto. The trip will take about 3 hours.


• By Bus: There are several buses that leave daily from Athens to Kalavryta. More information can be obtained at http://www.ktel.org/. There are also special buses during winter for skiers. The buses live early in the morning from Kifissia, Kalimarmaro, Neo Psichiko and Palaio Faliro.


• By Train: There is also a rail service to Kalavrita. You go by the regular train to Diakofto and then you change and take the funicular train up till Kalavrita town. The trip from Diakofto to Kalavrita takes almost an hour. It is considered as an amazing trip especially during spring. You will find more information at http://www.ose.gr/

Accommodation: www.kalavrita-hotels.gr/; /www.web-greece.gr/kalavrita; http://www.greekhotels.gr/peloponnese_hotels/ahaia_hotels/kalavryta_hotels.asp;