Southern Peloponnese. Peloponnese - an untouched corner of nature in Greece

I first came to the Peloponnese 6 years ago when I was looking for a more civilized and inexpensive alternative to Montenegro and Croatia. The first delight turned first into passion, and then became true love.

The Peloponnese is a huge peninsula, and it will not be possible to get to know it in one trip. It is worth starting by answering the questions:

• When do I want to go?
• What do I want to do?
• How will I move?

Oddly enough, but the question of cost can remain behind the scenes - as soon as you find yourself in places far from the tourist mainstream, or fall outside high season, trips are becoming quite inexpensive, especially by European standards. If you are interested in history, then the Peloponnese will truly amaze you. Here everything breathes Homer, here you can wander around the "gold-rich Mycenae", bathe in the spring of Helen the Beautiful or reach the sources of the Styx, in which the mother bathed little Achilles. Here Hercules performed his most striking feats and it was here that the history of the Olympic Games began.

If you like outdoor activities, Peloponnese will delight you with skiing, rafting, and picturesque hiking and climbing routes. Lovers of lying in the sun will not be disappointed either - beaches here can be found for every taste.

Lovers of delicious food with the right approach in the Peloponnese will have an unforgettable experience. Not only every district, but every place boasts some unique taste. The northern part of the peninsula is riddled with "wine roads": local wines are known all over the world and receive the highest awards at international competitions. Nearby, in small family cheese dairies, you can try unique local cheeses. In the mountains of Arcadia, they collect excellent honey, and everywhere they make jam from anything, up to olives. Olives and olive oil in the Peloponnese are a separate issue, and each region has its own varieties.

I hope that my review, full of love and tenderness for the Peloponnese, will help you decide on the time and place of your next trip.

How to get there

The road to the Peloponnese is an equation with several unknowns. First you need to decide on the geography of your trip. If you are going north - to Corinthia, Achaia or Argolis - then it is definitely easier to fly to Athens and continue traveling by land. If you are going to the South or South West Coast, then it makes sense to fly to Kalamata. It is easier to get to the West Coast through Patras. I’ll make a reservation right away that you will most likely have to travel here from other Russian cities through Moscow. A direct plane from St. Petersburg to Athens also exists, but its cost is much higher, and the schedule leaves much to be desired.

The next question is how do you plan to rest? Choose a specific place and, if possible, make forays around or you want to arrange a real road adventure, moving from place to place. In the second case, I recommend traveling through - there are more options for flights, the cheapest car rentals and a great bus station, from where you can go to almost any corner you like.

By plane

The northern part of the peninsula is accessible for flights via Athens, which allows you to save on tickets. Ticket prices are highly dependent on the season and the planning period. My personal experience shows that it is cheapest to fly Aegean Airlines or Elinair, and with charter flights there is no point in contacting Athens.

Prices for a direct flight from Moscow during the high season start from 250 EUR for a round trip ticket. Tickets from St. Petersburg will cost at least 50 euros more. Depending on the fare, you may have to pay extra for luggage from 30 EUR for a bag of 20–23 kg. To catch these prices, I book summer flights no later than March-April. If you do not have the opportunity to plan in advance, then most likely the tickets will cost you from 350 EUR per person.

If you have the opportunity to choose, then it is best to travel to the Peloponnese, and throughout Greece, outside the high season. I constantly monitor airline sales and, in my experience, it is quite realistic to buy tickets, for example, for 130-150 EUR round trip, even with a departure from St. Petersburg. The maximum discount of 30% (from the obviously lower price) is usually available when booking 4-6 months before the trip, in addition, there are one-time discount promotions for the destination. You can compare prices for bylits on current dates.

How to get to the Peloponnese

You will have to travel at least 400 km to the south, southeast and southwest of the Peloponnese from Athens, so if you are not afraid of a charter flight or tedious waiting connecting flight, then you can choose one of the two airports located directly on the Peloponnese.

The most convenient of them is Kalamata Airport in the southern part of the peninsula. From here it is convenient to get to Laconia (Monemvasya, Mani, Gifio) and Messinia (Koroni, Methoni, Pylos). From the beginning of June to the end of September, direct flights from Moscow fly here on Tuesdays and Sundays. Ticket prices for "early birds" start from 330 EUR for a round-trip trip. If you are not afraid of transfers or if you have no other choice, then you can get here by Lufthansa through or by Aegean Airlines through Athens, but you can hardly save money on such a flight.

The second airport of the Peloponnese - Araxos - is located on the western tip of the peninsula near Patras, the third most populated city in Greece. From here it is convenient to get to the western part of Achaia (Patras, Kalavryta), Ilia (Pyrgos, Olympia) and Arcadia (and the famous mountain villages). From the end of May to the beginning of October, a charter from Moscow flies here 4 times a week. Tickets cost from 380 EUR for round trip. Despite the popularity of the destination, outside the summer season it is impossible to get here, alas.

By train

I live in the north of the Peloponnese and usually get here from Athens by train. If you need to get to Achaia or Corinthia, this is the most economical and convenient option, especially if you are arriving at Athens International Airport: railroad station located nearby and connected to the airport by a glass passage.

However, it must be taken into account that the railway this moment reconstructed and the train itself will take you only to Kyato - a small town in Corinthia. Further, the OSE railway company offers travelers to transfer to a special bus that can take you to Patras. Trains run every hour and a bus goes directly to the train at the final station. Most often this is an express bus, 4 times a day the bus makes a stop in Diakofto.

Fares from international airport Athens to Kyato - 14 EUR. Children under 12 enjoy a 50% discount. The fare on the bus is added to the fare, depending on the destination, you will have to pay another 4–6 EUR. The bus ticket can be bought both at the departure station and in Kyato.

In addition to the main railway line, the Peloponnese also operates the Diakofto-Kalavryta tourist railway, which not only delivers everyone to this popular ski resort, but is also an attraction in itself and a kind of attraction.

By bus

The bus is often the most convenient public transport, which will take you anywhere in the Peloponnese. Serves long-distance passenger transportation company KTEL. All buses are equipped with air conditioning, often they have wi-fi. The roads are mostly excellent, although the mountainous areas are quite winding, and the views are simply unforgettable.

The main difficulty for an inexperienced traveler is to get to the central bus station from the airport of arrival. To get to the bus stations in Araxos and Kalamata, you will have to use a taxi. At the Athens airport, in addition to a taxi (issue price 35–40 EUR), you can use the special express X93, which departs every 30–40 minutes from a stop between 4 and 5 exits at the “arrival” level. Travel time to the bus station is about an hour. This Ending station so it's impossible to miss. The fare is 6–8 EUR.

The bus station always has information in English, and people around will be happy to help you find your stop and not mix up the bus. The fare is very adequate and depends on the distance, for example, a trip from Athens to Kalamata will cost about 25 EUR.

By car

Renting a car is the most convenient way to travel around the Peloponnese, which not only completely frees your hands, but also often saves money compared to public transport.

The road to the Peloponnese from the Athens airport is an excellent highway, for which you will have to pay about 7 EUR to get to the Corinth Canal that separates the peninsula from the mainland. Of course, you can drive along the old free road, but in this case you will have to spend 4 hours instead of one.

After crossing the channel, you will have a choice: head east to the northern part of Argolis (Epidaurus, Methana, Ermioni), continue your way inland (Nafpaktia, Arcadia, Laconia, Messinia) and or go west (Corinthia, Achaia, Ilia, West Side Messinia). However, you will always have an alternative. toll roads. And you can’t say that free is worse. Rather, on the contrary, you will miss a lot when traveling by highway. But if time is your main value, feel free to drive along toll road more than significant savings.

By ferry

Going by ferry to the Peloponnese is only worth it in 2 cases. If you are traveling from Italy or if you want to visit Aegina, Agistri or Poros on your way to the Peloponnese.

The ferry from Italy is convenient for those who decide to get to Greece by car through central Europe. For example, you can see Venice, and then take a ride on the sea (30 hours) in order to emerge from the cargo deck in your own car in Patras and go wherever your eyes look. If 30 hours of sailing is too much for you, you can take the ferry to Ancona (23 hours) or Bari (17.5 hours on the way). This is the fastest and cheapest ferry, a ticket for a company of 4 people, for example 2 adults with 2 children in a regular car, will cost at least 400 EUR one way.

The second way to the Peloponnese by ferry starts in Piraeus - the port of Athens, where you can get by metro, city buses, and taxis. The minimum cost of the ferry in the same company will be about 60 EUR. The cost when traveling with a car with a visit on the road, for example, beautiful Aegina, will cost 2 times more.

Clue:

Peloponnese - time is now

Hour difference:

Moscow 1

Kazan 1

Samara 2

Yekaterinburg 3

Novosibirsk 5

Vladivostok 8

When is the season. When is the best time to go

The Peloponnese is beautiful all year round. I do not even presume to recommend any particular season, for in this way I will detract from the beauty and advantages of other seasons. So whenever your long-awaited vacation, The Peloponnese will have something to please you.

Peloponnese in summer

The beginning of June in the Peloponnese is beautiful for its freshness and lack of crowds of tourists. The weather can still be unstable, and the sea is not warm enough (+20–22 °С). To relax by the sea at this time, it is better to go to the west coast, as well as to Messinia and Laconia. There are many sandy beaches with shallow water, so that the sea warms up faster.

From the end of June begins the most successful period for trips for warm sea with a minimum of people and relatively low prices. The influx of tourists begins in the second half of July, and along with the growth in the number of people, the quality of your holiday will decrease. This rule, unfortunately, works everywhere in the Peloponnese and especially affects the quality of food in coastal taverns.

When planning holidays by the sea in July and August, I always preferred the coast of the Gulf of Corinth in the north of the Peloponnese. Thanks to the dense greenery and protection from the hot southerly winds, it is always a little cooler here, and the lower humidity and constant breeze make it easier to endure even extreme heat. An alternative could be the northern and East Coast Argolids.

Peloponnese in autumn

Classes in Greek schools begin on September 15, so it’s worth going to the velvet season from the second half of September to mid-October. At this time, the best sea is amazingly viscous, calm, transparent, very comfortable temperature with a subtle autumn touch. And the weather pleases with mild warmth and calm, albeit cool, evenings. The average water temperature in September is +25 °С, in October +23 °С; the air during the day usually warms up within + 25-30 ° С. You can go anywhere at this time, the whole Peloponnese is beautiful.

After October 15, changes in the weather become more noticeable, it starts to rain, it can be windy and cool (+18-20 °С). The sea is still quite warm (+21-23 °C), so Russians who are accustomed to river water can easily swim. At this time, golden autumn begins, which can only be seen in the mountains, for example, in the unique Foloi oak forest, where islands of lush green grass in clearings contrast brightly with a thick golden carpet of oak leaves.

Peloponnese in spring

In fact, spring in the Peloponnese begins in the last decade of February. There are more and more sunny and dry days, and the daily temperature rises to + 16-18 ° C, or even higher. Almonds and magnolias begin to bloom, and the air is filled with the aroma of honey. The beginning of spring is best for traveling to the archaeological sites of the Peloponnese; The thousand-year-old ruins are covered with a colorful flower carpet and you get the feeling that you found yourself in a Hayao Miyazaki cartoon.

The great spring, which for us is more like summer, begins in the second half of April. At this time, on the coast you can admire the flowering tamarisks and eucalyptus, and the roadsides turn red from poppies. If you are lucky and the summer-like hot weather lasts for several days in a row, then the sea can easily warm up to + 22-23 ° С.

At this time it is good to travel around the towns, which in summer season crowded with tourists, for example, to live in Monemvasie, Nafplio or Pylos. Each of them is also the key to the whole region.

Peloponnese in winter

Winter for me is the best time to visit the Peloponnese. The fact is that it is in winter that the climatic difference between Greece and Russia is most felt. Daylight here lasts much longer, and the sun itself is much larger. Statistically, there are a couple of rainy days per week, one cloudy, and the rest of the time it resembles a nice day in the cavalry of October or early April. On average, daytime temperatures stay around +12-14 °C, there are also cold snaps, when the temperature drops below +10 °C, and warming up to +16-18 °C. Of course, we are talking about the coast. In the mountains, temperatures are 10-15 degrees lower, snow falls, which allows ski resorts to function.

For the celebration of Christmas and New Year, it is better to choose a lively city, such as Nafplio. If you like the atmosphere of "fireplace-mulled wine-snowballs", then you can visit the tourist villages in the mountains, serving local ski resorts, for example, Trikala, Zaruhla or Kalavrita.

In mid-January, a real miracle begins - Alkeonides - something like our Indian summer, but only in the middle of winter. The temperature rises to + 16-18 ° C and the weather is calm and sunny. This phenomenon usually lasts about a week and gives the most daring people the opportunity to swim. In fact, sea water in January is warmer than in March, and usually stays around +17 °C. In the shallow waters of lagoons, or where they flow into the sea thermal springs, the temperature can reach +20 °C.

In February, preparations for the upcoming carnival begin. The largest of them, and not only in the Peloponnese, but throughout Greece, takes place in Patras. If you want to see an older version, you can go to one of the mountain villages of Arcadia, and if you want to see the "Venetian carnival", then to Nafplio.

Clue:

Peloponnese - monthly weather

What are the prices for holidays

The Peloponnese offers holidays for every budget. Even in high season you can find prices around 30 EUR for a double room per day. It is more difficult just to find luxury and an exclusive level of services. General rule: the more famous the place, the more expensive it is.

Food in taverns here is somewhat cheaper than in more touristy developed regions. If we exclude fish and exclusive restaurants, then the average check will be 10–15 EUR per person with alcohol (homemade wine). In a regular fish tavern, you will have to pay from 20 EUR per person.

The cost of tickets for attractions of the first magnitude (Olympia, Mycenae) is 12 EUR (children under 18 visit sites and museums for free), for less significant ones - 6-8 EUR, entrances to local museums usually cost 3 EUR. Leisure attractions like the caves cost about the same, but there is a 30-50% discount for children

You can save money if you visit attractions in special days when admission is free. Each location may have its own extra days, but the general list looks like this:

• April 18 (International Monument Day),
• May 18 (International Museum Day),
• Last weekend of September (European Heritage Day),
• October 28 (Ohi day),
• Every first Sunday of the month from November 1st to March 31st.

Main attractions. What to see

The Peloponnese is extraordinarily rich in sights, and picking out the top 5 of them is a difficult task.

My personal top five places I will make up the classic attractions for which it is worth doing long way even from the other side of the peninsula.

Top 5

Beaches. Which is better

The Peloponnese is huge and good beaches are found everywhere. There aren't many really unique ones. As always clockwise

Churches and temples. Which are worth a visit

Peloponnese is traditionally one of the centers of religious tourism in Greece. There are no such large monastic centers as Meteora, but there are places no less powerful. When planning your visits to monasteries, you should take care of appropriate clothing (there are few places where they give out “skirts”) and the time of the visit (each monastery has its own work schedule, which also depends on the season). If you want to get there for sure, then you should come in the morning, before the siesta break, which starts at one in the afternoon.

Ahaya

The most popular pilgrimage center is the town of Kalavryta in the Achaia Mountains. Here in the vicinity there are several very famous monasteries, in particular Agia Lavra– the monastery where the Greek Revolution was blessed and the most famous monastery of the Peloponnese – Mega Spileo(Great Cave, as it is called in Russian). The latter is the second oldest of the active Christian monasteries after the monastery of St. Catherine on the Sinai Peninsula. The monastery houses a unique icon by St. Luke, which miraculously survived several fires. In addition, the relics of very many saints are collected here, and if you are lucky, you will be able to enter their vault. In the monastery museum you can see a small but very rich collection of books, icons and church utensils, and in the nearby monastery shop you can buy its products: honey, jams, wine, herbs and amazingly delicious walnut delight.

Another interesting monastery - Taxiarchon- located also in Achaia near the city of Aegion. If the weather permits, you can walk here to the old monastery, located higher in the mountains on a narrow ledge, which offers stunning views of the valley of the river Selinus. Taxiarchon is famous for its rose petal jam, which the monks grow in their fields. But believers come here first of all to bow to the great shrine: a casket with “relics of the Passion of Christ” is kept here - a gift from the Byzantine emperor to his brother, the founder of the monastery.

Laconia

Another unique convent can be visited in Mistra, a Byzantine ghost town located near Sparta. This is the only part of the city that still has life. The monastery was founded in the 15th century and impresses with its architectural design. The original frescoes have been preserved in the upper galleries of the main church. Here is stored a list from the famous icon Panagia Pantanassa stored on Mount Athos. The icon is considered miraculous, which can be immediately seen by the number of thanksgiving gifts left by believers.

In addition to the monasteries, there are some truly unique temples to visit in the Peloponnese.

Argolis

Makes an amazing impression Church of St. George near the town of Didyma in Argolis. Why exactly, I will not tell, so as not to spoil the surprise, be sure to get here if you travel through this part of the Peloponnese

Arcadia

Made the strongest impression on me Church of Saint Theodora, located near the village of Vasta in Arcadia (Megalopoli region). This tiny church, built in the 12th century, holds 17 adult plane trees on its roof, which miraculously did not crush it with their weight and did not turn the walls with their roots.

Ahaya

Panagia Katafigion- a church in Achaia, which, like a swallow's nest, nestled right on a rock with a stunning view of the Gulf of Corinth. A dizzying path carved into the rock leads here, and you can get here from the coast in just 20 minutes.

One of the most visited temples of the Peloponnese, Cathedral Saint Andrew, is nevertheless one of the most modern in all of Greece. It was built in Patras specifically for the return of the relics of Andrew the First-Called, which during the Ottoman conquest were transferred for storage in. Now in the cathedral you can bow to the head of the saint and parts of the cross on which he was crucified. When the relics were brought to Russia, many hours of queue lined up for them, but here you can stay close in complete solitude.

Laconia

Several unique temples can be visited in Monemvasier, including Hagia Sophia and Christos Elkomenos Cathedral, built in the 13th century by the emperor Andronnik ΙΙ Palaiologos.

Museums. Which are worth a visit

Personally, I am in favor of visiting any museums. The modest entry fee supports Greece's unique culture and helps keep people employed.

History and archeology

There are excellent museums at all major archaeological sites, they are good not only to cool off from the heat, but also to get a better idea of ​​the lifestyle, rituals and beliefs of the ancient Greeks and Byzantines. The cost of visiting such museums is included in the price of visiting the archaeological site itself. The price of a general ticket is usually 12 EUR. Children under 18 years old are admitted free of charge if they have a document confirming their age (it makes sense to take care only if you have a tall and developed teenager).

Most main museum where you must go without fail - museum archaeological site in Ancient Olympia, if only for the sake of seeing with your own eyes the sculpture of Hermes, the work of the famous ancient Greek sculptor Praxiteles. Another such chance you can only have in the Louvre.

From municipal (urban) archaeological and historical museums made me very good impression Museums of Nafplio, Sparta and Patras. The latter is undeservedly bored without visitors, despite being recognized best museum Europe and holds a truly unique collection of Roman mosaics. Entrance to such museums is significantly cheaper compared to larger attractions and usually amounts to 2-3 EUR. Children visit them for free.

Thematic museums

From museums of other subjects, I really liked the modern The Olive Oil Museum in Sparta and the Mani Museum in Gythio. As a rule, such museums are commercial projects, but their pricing policy does not differ from state museums.

parks

National parks occupy a significant area of ​​the Peloponnese, especially in its northern part. In these areas, hunting is prohibited and, as a rule, walking and cycling routes are equipped. The most interesting of them:

• Mount Helmos and the origins of the Styx- the easiest way to get here is from the village of Zaruhla, where there is a tourist infrastructure. The routes start between the villages of Solo and Messorugi.

• Vouraikos Gorge- one of the most popular hiking and cycling routes connecting Kalavryta and the coast of the Gulf of Corinth.
• Cape Tenaron in the south– local nature is similar to alien landscape, and the oracle of the dead located here creates a peculiar atmosphere for the place.

• A separate topic is the observation of birds that stop at lakes and salty lagoons, for example in the region Aliki in Aegion and Prokopiou not far from Patras, and also on Lake Kaiafa. Over 100 species can be seen depending on the season, including pelicans and flamingos.

• Also to national parks refer cave systems, the most interesting of which are diros caves in the Mani region in the south of the Peloponnese, Cave of the lakes in the mountains of Achaia and Frahti Cave in Argolis.

nearby islands

If you are far from the mainland, pay attention to the nearest islands connected with the Peloponnese by ferries. For convenience, I will go clockwise, starting from the Saronic Gulf.

Food. What to try

Many people with whom I had to communicate about Greek cuisine were disappointed with their experience. There are several reasons for this:

1. They chose the wrong places. You should not count on quality in tourist establishments with high traffic, as soon as the number of visitors exceeds a critical mark, the quality even in good establishments drops significantly. Besides, Foreign tourists few people know what the “right taste” should be, so for tourists you can always save on ingredients. So choose places where the locals go.
2. They chose the wrong dishes. In order not to wait for a long time, you need to order snacks and ready-made meals, what is called “magerefta” in Greek. This is a roast of different types of meat, vegetable and meat stews. These dishes are prepared for 1-2 days, they are tasty and give a better idea of ​​the local cuisine.
3. They only ate what they had already tasted. The knowledge of many tourists about Greek cuisine ends with Greek salad and moussaka. The latter, by the way, appeared here quite recently. You should not be afraid to try new dishes and ask the owner for advice.
4. They did not take into account the season. Tasty food made from delicious ingredients. For example, don't order Greek salad in June or stewed green beans in December. So always check what foods are at their peak during your travels.

Peloponnesian cuisine deserves a separate article, because almost every place has its own special dishes that are worth trying here. Kokoras kokinisto in Kalavryta, roast pig in Sparta, almond kurabye in Monemvasier - the list is endless.

By the way, if you like to cook yourself, then in almost every large village of the Peloponnese there is a market on Saturdays (Laiki in Greek), where local farmers bring their crops. You can find out exactly where it passes from the locals. IN common days it is better to buy vegetables and fruits from greengrocers (manAvikos), fish from fish shops (psaragora, psarAdiko), and meat from a butcher (creopolio). From supermarkets, it is better to choose either small local stores or chain stores Galaxias and AB (Alfavita) - here priority is given to Greek products, which are much better in quality than cheaper brands brought from other European countries.

Holidays

The holidays in the Peloponnese are the same as throughout Greece. But, of course, there are also local events that make traveling at this time very attractive.

Summer activities

Summer, especially its second half, is the time of village holidays - “panigiri”. These are completely open events to which the communities are happy to welcome all guests. They usually take place on weekends and you can find out about them in advance by ads or by talking to local residents.

In addition, a major religious holiday is celebrated in August - the Assumption of the Virgin. This is an official day off, when you should definitely look into the church, get a blessing and a special bread - prosphora. These days, rams are roasted everywhere, so if you want to try this miracle, do not miss the chance.

Autumn events

In September, be sure to check out moon calendar. On a big full moon throughout Greece, and the Peloponnese is no exception, archaeological sites are open all night long, where you can come and admire the flooded moonlight ruins for free.

Panigiri continues in autumn, especially in areas rich in vineyards. It is very interesting to get to the holiday, when the whole village cooks on the central square tsipouro - local grape moonshine. The aroma is extraordinary.

On October 28, everyone celebrates the day of "Oh" - on this day the country refused to surrender to the Italian fascists, launched a retaliatory military operation and eventually won. On this day, parades are held everywhere, and on almost every patriotic Greeks hang out national flags.

In November, in one of the villages of the Peloponnese, Kashtanitsa, an annual chestnut festival is held. A very bright sight and a place of stunning beauty in the mountains in the east of Laconia.

winter activities

It is the activities that make winter so attractive for traveling in the Peloponnese. Christmas and New Year for the Greeks, they are far from the biggest holidays, and by our standards they celebrate them modestly, but very atmospherically. Christmas pavilions, fairs work everywhere, Christmas music plays.

At this time, the first discounts in stores begin, so the festive fuss is everywhere. Big sales start from the end of January and discounts on them reach up to 90%.

But the most interesting time is the end of February. Usually during this period there is a carnival week, which turns the Peloponnese into a fun show. Everyone from young to old takes part in the holidays. Moreover, carnival events are held even in small villages.

I especially love the Thursday before the carnival week - Chiknopemdi - on this day, small barbecues are pulled out right into the streets and meat is fried on coals. The atmosphere is very fragrant! The first day of Great Lent - Clean Monday, is also part of the carnival week and is celebrated everywhere. On this day, a strict fast is observed, neither meat nor dairy products can be eaten. On this day, special bread is baked - lagana, on the table in houses and taverns dishes from octopus, cuttlefish, shrimp and shellfish.

Spring activities

March 25 - Revolution Day, which is one of the main holidays of the year for the Greeks and is associated with the liberation from Ottoman rule. On this day, it is customary to eat dishes of salted cod, beetroot salad and skordalia - mashed potatoes or bread seasoned with garlic, lemon juice and olive oil. That was the food of the revolutionaries, and with all modesty - it is very tasty!

As a rule, April falls on Easter week, and this is the most important holiday of the year for any Greek. Every day of Holy Week is filled with meaning, and the air breathes with joy and expectation of a miracle. The Friday procession, the traditional Easter cuisine, Great Sunday with its roar and fried lambs - all this makes the Easter week one of the best periods to visit not only the Peloponnese, but also Greece in general.

In addition, local holidays in different areas fall at this time, one of the most interesting of them is the tulip festival in Didyma, a tiny town in Argolis far from tourist centers. Unique wild tulips grow here - the distant ancestors of the Dutch beauties.

Safety. What to watch out for

The Peloponnese is a very peaceful place, safe, inhabited by hospitable, kind people. And yet there is always something to fear:

1. Stock up on a small phrase book, navigation systems can let you down and then you will have to ask for help from the locals.
2. Never mess with gypsies. Many of them are quite normal people, but still not worth it.
3. In large cities, keep a close eye on your wallets.
4. Keep an eye on the news, sometimes there are transport strikes and if you are dependent on the bus or railway, you may have unexpected problems.

Things to do

In summer

June in the Peloponnese is beautiful for its choice. All roads are open, snow remains only on the most high peaks, there are few cars, which means that the road will be much easier to carry. Mountain rivers are still full of water, which means you can go rafting and kayaking, and the cave of lakes still surprises with a thousand filled multi-level pools. It is still not too hot during the day, so you can go on long hiking and cycling routes, and, for example, climb to the sources of the Styx or go down to the bottom of the canyon at the "Devil's Bridge". Horseback riding in the mountains at this time can give an unforgettable experience, just imagine what it is like to eat wild cherries without dismounting ...

On the hottest days of July and August, when the temperature can stay around +35 for weeks, and the beaches are packed with vacationers, I highly recommend a trip to the mountains. The temperature at an altitude of more than a kilometer can be lower by 10 degrees. At the same time, the mountains offer amazing adventures in summer. After all, you can swim not only in the sea. For a change, try to plunge into a mountain stream on a hot day, and then have lunch in a cozy tavern under the canopy of plane trees, perhaps these memories will warm you more than sea sunsets. Hot days are also the best time to hike to waterfalls, which are plentiful in the Peloponnese. The most famous of them are Neda in the mountains of Elijah and Polilimnio in Messinia.

autumn

During the day in early autumn it is still quite hot, so it is better to plan active activities in the morning, although the atmosphere itself is conducive to a relaxed rest. At this time, it is great to go fishing - this is the most fishing time and you will not need any license for fishing from the shore with a rod or reel.

Cooler weather in the second half of autumn opens up opportunities for sports and active outings. One of my favorite discoveries in the Peloponnese was... mushrooms! The busiest time is the end of October. You need to follow them to the mountains. For example, the cool spruce forests of Arcadia at this time are full of mushrooms and whites. But be careful, never take mushrooms that you are not completely sure about, but rather show your mushrooms in a local tavern. By the way, as a rule, the owner will not mind preparing your crop.

in winter

Winter is good for traveling along the coast in areas rich in olive groves, such as in the Kalamata region. The harvest is in full swing and in any humble tavern you will taste the oil that only a select few outside of Greece can afford. The area is also great because you can find interesting things to do on a rainy day, for example, you can see the cave of Diros or take a ride to the picturesque Gythio to eat freshly caught fish.

But the best ideas for leisure will be provided by the winter holidays, which I wrote about earlier.

spring

As soon as the weather becomes more gentle, the rafting season opens on the Lucio and Erymanfos rivers in the mountains of Arcadia. There are routes here for both beginners and extreme lovers, and the level of safety corresponds to European concepts. As a rule, rafting bases have a cafe, as well as bike rental, ATVs, a bungee, a climbing wall and an archery stand, so if not everyone in your team wants to swim in an icy mountain river, then they will not be bored time until your return.

In the second half of spring, even the most remote mountainous regions open up for travel. Spring comes later there, so you can enjoy the sun and blooms, and this is an ideal time for cycling and hiking. The most interesting routes can be found in the central part of the Peloponnese. Trikala, Erymanfos, Olympia, Arcadia, Tegetus are the best for this place.

extreme sports

The most popular extreme sports in the Peloponnese are rafting, rock climbing, skiing and paragliding. In addition, diving and freediving are popular in the south of the Peloponnese. You can also find opportunities for kiting, horseback riding, parachuting and other extreme sports.

Souvenirs. What to bring as a gift

Each area offers its own ideas. The most popular theme is regional products: honey, mountain herbs and tea, olive oil and figs. Gifts for skin care are very popular - in local shops, for example, you can find handmade Gallen creams with propolis, royal jelly, and the purest extracts of mountain herbs.

Many craftsmen and designers work in the Peloponnese. In Olympia you can find amazingly beautiful silver jewelry made by local artists, in Nafplio they make very comfortable and beautiful handmade sandals, in the mountains of Arcadia there are many products made of carved wood, wool, goat skins.

How to move around the region

Peloponnese - holidays with children

Holidays with children do not depend on the children, but on the parents. If you want to take a break from your child and leave it to the animators, then the Peloponnese is not for you, there are very few similar hotels and they are located far from the most the best places. In addition, there are few aqua centers and other traditional children's entertainment.

If you are raising travelers, pioneers and inquisitive klutzes, then you are in the right place. Here you can go hiking in mountain streams, swim in waterfalls, explore the caves of primitive people, meteorite craters, swim in the clearest waters of the two seas, rafting, archery and horseback riding along mountain trails.

Ski holidays

Going to the Peloponnese for the sake of skiing is not worth it; rather, it is an opportunity to diversify your impressions in the winter. At the same time, there are not many chances to ride at the beginning of winter. Usually, stable snow cover is established only by the second half of January, when the weather more or less calms down, and then you can go to the mountains to one of the Peloponnese ski resorts: Kalavryta (Helmos) or Zirya (Killini).

Kalavryta (Achaia)

The main ski center of the Peloponnese. You can get here on weekends in winter by bus from Athens, which makes a stop in Corinth and Punda or from Patras and Aegion. In addition to skiing, snowboarding, sledding, and snowmobiling are also enjoyed here. If you come for a few days, you can stay in the hotels of the town of Kalavrita, a chalet in the immediate vicinity of the ski center or on the other side of the mountain, in the picturesque villages of Zaruhla and Peristeri.

Zirya (Corinthia)

Mostly beginners and children ride here, the length of the tracks and their complexity are very modest. In addition to skiing, you can also go cross-country skiing, for which special tracks have been laid. You can also rent buggies and snowmobiles here. At the same time, it is best to stop in the villages of Ano Trikala and Mesei Trikala, from where a special snow bus runs to the resort. You can find a hotel here for every taste and budget, and local taverns parade you with wonderful cuisine.

Ski passes

A ski pass to the Kalavryty ski resort will cost 15 or 25 EUR depending on the season, equipment rental is 15-20 EUR. For children and teenagers, the price is significantly lower.

For those who use the snow bus to get to the resort, there are special offers, for example, if you travel by bus from Patras, then for 35 EUR you can immediately get a bus ticket, a set of equipment and a ski pass for all lifts.

Tracks

Kalavryta has 8 lifts and 14 pistes of varying difficulty with a total length of 25 km. Elevation difference from 1730–2340 meters.

Have something to add?

The region located in the south mainland Greece. Unlike other Greek destinations, this region is little known Russian tourists. Meanwhile, the possibilities of the Peloponnese are endless. Important historical events took place on this land and numerous ancient monuments have been preserved. The coast of the peninsula is famous for its excellent beaches, and the nature makes the Peloponnese one of the most picturesque regions of Greece.

History of the Peloponnese

The Peloponnese peninsula got its name in honor of King Pelops, who was considered the national hero of the Peloponnese. Since ancient times, the Peloponnese has played an important role in Greek history. When Minoan civilization fell, the center of power of the ancient Aegean world moved from Crete to Mycenae and Tiryns. Having become the most powerful city in the region, Mycenae surpassed Athens and Sparta. The period of peace and prosperity was destroyed by a series of invasions by Goths, Slavs and Avars. On the territory of the Peloponnese, at different times, the most bloody battles of the ancient world took place.

Monemvasia.

For a long time the Peloponnese was part of the Roman Empire. The Byzantines came here later and firmly settled in the region only in the 9th century. In 1204, after the siege of Constantinople by the crusaders, the region was divided into 12 destinies between France, Flanders and Burgundy. The Byzantines nevertheless took revenge, although the empire was never revived.

This was followed by a difficult period of Turkish rule in the Peloponnese, which began in 1460. Subsequently, the struggle for power between the Turks and the Venetians continued for hundreds of years. For the latter, the region had long been a desirable land, so at the first opportunity they created trading ports in Methoni and Monemvasia.

The year 1821 in the Peloponnese, as well as in Greece as a whole, was marked by the beginning of the revolution. In 1824, the allies (England, France, Russia) destroyed the Egyptian-Turkish fleet in the Battle of Navarino. Thus ended the Turkish era in the Peloponnese. After the final liberation of Greece, it was the Peloponnesian Nafplion that was chosen as the first capital of the state.

Speaking about the past of the Peloponnese, one cannot but recall the myths associated with the region. The most famous are the legend of the Trojan War and the myths of Pelops, after whom the peninsula was named.

Geography of the Peloponnese

The Peloponnese peninsula is southern territory Balkan Peninsula and connected to it by the Isthmus of Corinth. Its area is over 22,000 sq. km, coastline stretched for 1100 km. The Peloponnese is washed by the waters of the Saronic Gulf and the Ionian Sea. The relief of the peninsula is predominantly mountainous. Although the Peloponnese is famous for its fertile plains, fields and groves.

Fort Bourtzi in Nafplion.

The Peloponnese is divided into 7 regions:

• Corinth is one of the largest prefectures known for its ancient monuments. The most visited of them is Acrocorinth. Now the city of Corinth itself is a major industrial center;
• Argolis is the area in which the most intense excursions are held. Ancient Mycenae, Nafplio and the city of Epidaurus are located here;
• Arcadia is a region famous for its wildlife, lush forests and traditional villages. Well-preserved Byzantine monuments are located here;
• Laconia is attractive because it is here that Sparta and Monemvasia are located. The nome is also known for some of the best beaches in the Peloponnese;
• Messinia is worth a visit to see the Palace of Nestor and the well-preserved Ancient Messinia;
• Achaia is interesting for tourists who want to see one of the largest cities in Greece - Patras. This is a beautiful flourishing city with a lot of ancient monuments and developed infrastructure;
• Elijah became famous for Ancient Olympia and picturesque coastal cities.

Tourism in the Peloponnese

The mild climate, salubrious air and pleasing landscapes of the Peloponnese made it suitable place for family, romantic and solitary recreation. There are fewer hotels here than in other regions of Greece. However, among them there are hotels that belong to the famous "chains".

Arcadia.

The beaches of the peninsula are mostly sandy or with minor inclusions of pebbles. South coast known for its deserted beaches, while the areas of Corinth and Achaia are family oriented.

Among the famous beaches is Voidokilia. This bay of incredible beauty in the shape of the letter "omega" glorified the Peloponnese. No less beautiful are the beaches of Kuruta, Psili Ammos and Arkoudi.

Attractions Peloponnese

The Peloponnese is home to some of the most famous sights in Greece. Anyone who is interested in the mysterious Mycenaean era should visit the Palace of Nestor - a well-preserved palace complex semi-mythical king. The excavations have not been completed, but the main palace, an earlier small palace, burial halls and household buildings are open to the public.

Methoni.

Mycenae - interesting monument ancient civilization. During excavations, its ruins revealed to the world many burial places with expensive gifts. Particularly impressive is the architecture of the tombs, which demonstrates the talent of the architects of that era. The lion gate of the city got its name from the bas-relief that repeats the outlines of lions. According to one version, the image was the coat of arms of the Atrid family.

A rare tourist will pass by Ancient Olympia. At the excavation site, you can see the remains of gyms, sanctuaries of pagan gods, and an early Christian basilica. The foundation of Leonidion survived - houses with rooms in which noble visitors stayed. The hippodrome and the stadium remained in the eastern part. Columns and foundations survived from the temples of Hera and Zeus, and some fragments are kept in the Museum of Olympia.

Epidaurus.

Epidaurus - a place in the past known as a point of attraction for pilgrims. Here was the sanctuary of Asclepius. Solemn processions and sports competitions were organized in his honor. Now you can see the ruins of a tholos, large propylaea, rooms in which the sick were waiting for healing, and the foundation of the temple of Asclepius. Well-preserved amphitheater, built for the entertainment of the nobility. It is distinguished by high-quality acoustics and still hosts theatrical performances.

Car rental in Greece - unique conditions.

general description

Peloponnese- peninsula, which is the southernmost part of mainland Greece. Many call it an island, thanks to the dug Corinth Canal, which cut through the Isthmus of Corinth and, in fact, really turned the Peloponnese into an island.

It was on this land that all the most significant events of history unfolded. Ancient Greece, these places are described in myths and legends. Here stands the center of the most ancient civilization, the city of Mycenae, founded by Perseus, the ruins of which were miraculously found a little more than a hundred years ago. In the western part of the peninsula, you can also visit Ancient Olympia, where the first Olympic Games, which were a symbol of the world and still perform this function. Peloponnese is the birthplace of 300 Spartans, it was here that the city-polis of Sparta flourished, waged wars and acquired legends.

This region is also famous for its magnificent long beaches, the best of which are located in the western part on the shores of the Ionian Sea. You will not find noisy discos here; the resort is ideal for secluded relaxation and recreation with children. Often, domestic and foreign stars come here to gain strength and enjoy a relaxing holiday.

There are wonderful spas, many taverns with true Greek cuisine and excellent fresh seafood, as well as excellent local wine Mavrodafni. The abundance of olive groves and flower fields will allow you to buy in the Peloponnese the best olive oil and honey in Greece, which has amazing healing properties.

The best cities and resorts of the Peloponnese

There are so many attractions in the Peloponnese that it will not be possible to see them all in a couple of days. It was on this territory that the history of Ancient Greece was made, these places are described in myths and...

Climate in the Peloponnese

Since the Peloponnese peninsula has a fairly large territory, weather features may vary in different parts. In general, the climate can be described as Mediterranean, dominated by warm winter and the scorching sun in summer. The situation is especially different in the central part of the region, where there are mountains. In winter, the temperature is much lower here, and precipitation falls more often, including in the form of snow.

The hottest part of the region is the western one, in summer the air here warms up to +30 - +35, and the sea temperature is about +27 degrees. However, the constant breeze from the Ionian Sea takes the heat off, creating comfortable conditions for visiting the beach and excursions. In winter, it is warm here, the temperature is about +15 degrees, precipitation is infrequent, but, nevertheless, there is a place to be.

Video from Peloponnese

One of the most interesting excursions awaits travelers in the city of Epidaurus, in the homeland of the healer god Asclepius. According to legend, he was one of the many sons of Apollo, who learned the art of healing from the wise centaur Chiron, he also learned to resurrect the dead. The fame of Asclepius spread throughout Greece, and the suffering from all over the country began to gather in Epidaurus. Zeus did not like this, who, justifying his title of thunderer, struck Asclepius with lightning. During the excavations, ancient healing tools from the 4th-5th centuries were found, as well as Sanctuaries that served as hospitals. However, the main attraction remains the famous theater of Epidaurus, which is famous for its extraordinary acoustics. If you stand in the center of the arena and say a word in a whisper, it will be perfectly audible even on the very top row of stands. In the summer, a dramatic art festival is regularly held here, attracting many tourists.

Do not miss the opportunity to go on a tour of Delphi and Meteora. Delphi is the birthplace of Apollo, where his sanctuary and the famous Delphic oracle were located. Here the Pythia, the ancient soothsayer, prophesied prophecies that were listened to by kings and emperors. According to legends, the navel of the earth is also located here, which you can touch today. Nearby are the majestic Meteora - a complex of monasteries, as if floating in the air. The picture resembles frames from a science fiction movie: on the tops of sheer cliffs standing separately from each other, slightly overgrown with greenery, temples and monasteries are piled up, which monks began to build back in the Middle Ages.

History of the Peloponnese

Remember everything that you went through in your history lessons about the birth of modern society - most of the events took place in the Peloponnese. The first traces of human activity on the peninsula...

Where is the best place to stay while traveling in the Peloponnese?

In the north and east of the Peloponnese, as well as in large cities such as Patras or Kalamata, there is a large selection of hotels for every budget. However, most of them have a category of 3 or 4 stars,...

Active holidays in the Peloponnese

There are no discos that do not sleep until the morning and an abundance of night entertainment on Pel Oponnese. Most of the settlements of the peninsula are small, there are many small taverns with true Greek cuisine, there are nightclubs only in large cities, for example, in Patras. This region is famous for its magnificent beaches, which are ideal for secluded holidays and vacations with children.

With children, it is worth visiting the Water Fun water park, which is located near Corinth. There is both entertainment for the little ones, such as a swimming pool, safe slides and a slow river, as well as attractions for adults, such as the famous "Kamikaze" or "Black Hole". Lifeguards are on duty in the water park, there are also spacious pools for a more relaxing holiday. Water sports enthusiasts will also be interested in the dive center, which is located near Achaia, and in September-October, the west coast is suitable for surfers.

Fans of gambling can visit the largest casino in Greece, which is located in Loutraki. Despite the fact that it is based on the territory of the hotel, admission is free not only for guests. On two floors of the gambling establishment, you can not only play, but also enjoy dinner in a restaurant with good cuisine.

Interestingly, in the mountains of Kalavryta, there is also the second largest ski resort in Greece, famous for its excellent service. In winter, many tourists flock here, but in summer you can only admire the picturesque views, since skiing will not work.

Transport features of the Peloponnese

There are no railways, as such, in the Peloponnese, some branches go from Athens to Corinth, but there are no directions to the western parts of the peninsula. The main transport of the Peloponnese is regular buses. They depart from the bus stations, making stops at the designated points of the route. The cost of tickets depends on the distance, so, for example, you can get from Pyrgos to Athens, that is, having traveled the entire peninsula, you can pay 30 - 40 euros, the cost of a ticket from Pyrgos to Patras is about 10 - 15 euros.

If you need to cover a short distance, you can use the services of a taxi. Since there are no private cab drivers here, there are licensed taxi drivers in all towns, even small ones, and there is a full-time taxi driver at every club hotel, if it is located far from settlements. The fare is quite expensive and is about 2 - 3 euros per kilometer.

Peloponnese Peninsula: how to get there?

There are several options for how to get to the Peloponnese. The most convenient is to choose one of the charter flights to Kalamata, Araxos or Tripoli, which are operated by many air carriers during the high season. Regular flights fly from Moscow, St. Petersburg and regions of Russia to Athens, while their cost is much lower than charter ones.

From Athens, by regular bus or your own car, you can get to the Peloponnese in a relatively short time. So, the way to the very big city this region, Patras, takes no more than 4 hours by bus.

There is no direct rail link between Russia and the Peloponnese. However, you can travel from Athens to Corinth by train, which departs daily from the central station. Since the city of Patras is the largest port city Greece, you can sail here on a ship, for example, a cruise ship, and on ferries that run between the islands of Greece.

Souvenirs in the Peloponnese

An excellent souvenir from the Peloponnese can be olive oil, because it is here that some of the largest olive groves grow. Oil can be bought both in cities and small ...

Peloponnese - the charm of ancient Greece

If you look at the Peloponnese from a bird's eye view, the first thing that catches your eye is the piercing blue sky of the sea and the green carpet of forests, with a scattering of amazingly white pearls - villages. The pride of Greece, the Peloponnese peninsula is lovingly washed by the Ionian and Aegean seas, representing, on a par with the island in , one of the most desirable places for recreation. Today, tours to the Peloponnese from Moscow are purchased by travelers who are not indifferent to, because there really is something to see on the peninsula. antique ancient greek cities the peninsulas of Patra, Sparta, Argos or Mycenae are real treasures with historical monuments, sometimes lost in ruins.

Holidays in the Peloponnese is a journey into the ancient ancient world Greece, which has not changed much in our time. Many local residents, not wanting to succumb to the influence of civilization, lead their usual way of life, which differs little from the way of life of their ancestors. Nevertheless, about the rest in the Peloponnese, they are convinced that the infrastructure is well developed there. Travelers don't have to live in fishermen's huts and eat food cooked over a fire, of course. Quite comfortable, restaurants, bars and cafes - all this is created for tourists.

In addition, everyone can order for themselves excursion tours throughout the peninsula, the list of attractions which will impress even seasoned travelers. The famous ancient amphitheater evokes tourists with amazing acoustics, temples and ancient antique statues Olympia - greatness. The city of Mycenae will present to the attention of tourists the famous " lion gate”, and Mistre will surprise you with an ancient castle and Byzantine churches. Also noteworthy is the Fratsi Cave, hidden in the fishing village of Kilada, and the huge Rioni Bridge, thanks to which trips to the mainland become possible.

Holidays in the Peloponnese: entertainment

Tourists who have chosen to vacation on the peninsula in the summer will not regret their decision. It is at this time that the theatrical season opens - the famous plays performed by Greek theater troupes miraculously return to the past, to Greece, where Aeschylus and Sophocles, Euripides and Aristophanes worked on new masterpieces.Apart from cultural program for tourists thought out and active rest. Water sports, lawn tennis, volleyball, cycling in the surroundings and skiing in the famous Greek ski resort of Kalavryte - you will not be bored, that's for sure. In addition, tourists who are not used to limiting themselves will enjoy a trip to the neighboring

Today we are going to the Peloponnese! The sights that are available here are not the most favorite places for tourists, but the number of tourists is increasing here every year.

This is the most South part mainland Greece. Many are attracted by the purest sea water and beaches. The peninsula has a very picturesque nature and great heritage historical and cultural attractions.

These places are repeatedly visited not only by foreign tourists, but also by residents of Greece, who appreciate their cultural wealth. And the Peloponnese lives and breathes local traditions and customs, tremblingly protects all the heritage that he got.

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The main attractions of the Peloponnese island (Greece)

1. Corinth Canal. A land canal that connects the Aegean and Ionian Seas. The average depth of the 6-meter canal is 8 m. Today, it no longer has any economic significance, but has become one of the local tourist attractions. And not in vain, visiting such a place is worth attention and time, for example, the canal walls rise to a height of 76 meters.
   The canal can be seen in 2 ways: buy a cruise or see it from above. High walls and outlandish landscapes attract the attention of bungee jumpers.
2. Aquapark Peloponnese recognized as one of the largest and most popular water parks in Greece. Both adults and children will find entertainment here. The central pool has an area of ​​more than 650 square meters.
   Without leaving the water, you can treat yourself to cooling cocktails. A large round pool is suitable for jacuzzi lovers.
3. Holy Lavra- Greek monastery, the construction of which was dedicated to the Assumption Mother of God. One of the important symbols of Greece, which marks the birth of its independence. modern building The monastery is not the original, since the Lavra was repeatedly burned to the ground, and in the middle of the 19th century it was also destroyed by an earthquake.
   Today, a museum has been opened on the territory of the Lavra, which contains old icons, documents, images and sacred relics.
4. Meteora. These are powerful rocks that hold the main historical, cultural and religious landmark of Greece - the monasteries of Meteora.
   This place has been a hermitage for over 1000 years. Many tourists try to get here along a special path to see the unique library collection and frescoes, ancient icons and manuscripts, relics, temples painted by famous artists. 7 monasteries are available for tourists.
5. Monastery of Blessed Potapius. One of the most revered shrines in Greece is named after the miracle worker saint of the same name. History tells of him as a saint who healed through prayers. The monastery itself is located very high. To get there, you need to overcome 144 steps.
   It was built not so long ago - about 100 years ago. But in its design, all Byzantine traditions are sustained. But the cave in which the relics of St. Potapius rest was painted by an unknown artist as early as the 15th century.
6. Zeus statue in Olympia. The statue was included in the 7 wonders of the world of ancient times. The author is the sculptor Phidias. The finished statue was placed in the Temple of the Deity, the world first saw it in 435 BC. e. The real statue of Zeus burned down in the 5th century. BC e., so it is impossible to name its exact parameters today.
   According to historians, its height was more than 13 m, the material of manufacture was gold and ivory. Modern tourists have the opportunity to see only the restored statue of Zeus. By the way, some of the works of the author of the statue of Zeus have survived to this day.
7. Temple at Olympia. A visit to the Peloponnese gives you the opportunity to see one of the largest sanctuaries in Greece - Olympia. It was she who became the birthplace of the ancient Greek gods, and it was here that the Olympic Games were founded and held for more than one century.
   And today you can look at the ruins of the temple of the gods: Zeus and Hera. To see all the fragments of the temple of Zeus that have survived, it is worth visiting the Archaeological Museum on the territory of Olympia. From the temple of Hera, only a few columns and foundations remain, since it was badly damaged by an earthquake as early as the beginning of the 4th century AD. e.
8. The ghost town of Mystra. It was built at the beginning of the 13th century and served as a fortress. For its construction, the ruins of ancient Sparta, which is located only 8 km from the city, were used. Many historical events are associated with it.
   For tourists who love historical and cultural attractions, this place is a real paradise. After all, the Monastery of the Metropolis, Brontochion, the temples of St. Theodore and Hodegetria, the palace of despots, the historical and archaeological museum are worth the attention of every vacationer.
9. Palace of Nestor. Until the middle of the 20th century, the palace (kingdom) of Nestor was mentioned only in the writings of ancient writers, and archaeologists puzzled over its possible location. After it was found in 1939, scientists were able to state that it was a huge palace that consisted of 2 floors.
   There were chic, by those standards, baths, a library, a bedroom. Most of it was destroyed in a fire. Today the palace is included in the list of the most important historical sites in the Peloponnese.
10. Monastery Mega Spileon. The walls of this building were witnesses long history Greece. Therefore, the monastery is called the main spiritual center of the country. It has become the abode of many pilgrims who wish to see the shrines and bow to them in one of the ancient temples of the world.
    Tourists are mainly attracted by the very construction of the monastery, which is cut into a sheer rock. Visiting the monastery is open to everyone. The most impressive sights of the monastery are: the miraculous icon of the Mother of God, the place with the relics of the founders and the museum. The latter has a unique collection of artifacts from ancient times.

The most beautiful places in the Peloponnese

There are not many resorts on the peninsula, but they are all located in the most picturesque corners Peloponnese.

Loutraki is a resort that is famous for its clean, calm sea.

Healing mineral springs, inexpensive hotels, a good selection of entertainment for children and adults make tourists come back to these places again and again.

Elia fascinates with its many ancient monuments, which are located among the picturesque nature: the cleanest and longest beaches and unusual lakes.

Laconia - some resorts do not have beaches, which turns part of this city into a wilderness. This is what makes it special.

Only here you can relax from the daily hustle and bustle and find peace. On the territory of Laconia there are single sandy and pebble beaches.

Not less than beautiful places local ski resorts are also considered. Thus, tourists from all over the world have the opportunity to enjoy winter holidays from the beginning of winter to mid-spring.

Vacationers come here for good prices, high-level infrastructure, proximity to the most famous historical monuments. Frequently visited ski resorts of Peloponnese: Kalavryte and Menalo.

Enough to enjoy unity with nature is possible due to the tranquility and the absence of large crowds of tourists. reserved forests and gorges of rocks attract lovers of beautiful unique nature and peaceful rest.

What tourists need to see in the Peloponnese

1. Diros caves. located along underground river, which stretches for more than 1.5 km. The walls of the cave surprise with unusual shapes and shades, the presence of unusual stalactites and stalagmites.
   The caves of the Peloponnesian Peninsula have not yet been fully explored (only 6.5 km), so this attraction is fraught with many secrets and mysteries.
2. Lousios River. ancient legend says that even little Zeus was bathed in it, so it has a special meaning for the locals. Based on the research of the Lucios River and other local reservoirs, the Museum of Hydrodynamics was opened on its banks.
   The unique combination of the picturesque nature of the river and relief caves makes it possible to enjoy and active species recreation and tourism: hiking, rafting or rafting, you can even go down the river canyon.
3. Taygetos- a range of mountains in the Peloponnese. most high point Peloponnese is considered to be Mount Agios Ilias. Once on its top, you can visit the small temple of the prophet Elijah.
   Near this place the most amazing landscapes peninsulas. Two rivers and streams originate in the mountains, which over the centuries have created unusual landforms. The central part of the ridge rarely receives the sun's rays, due to which it received the name "Dark Side".
4. Olive gardens. This product originated in Greece and is considered the most traditional ingredient in Greek cuisine. Not so long ago, a museum of olives and olive oil was opened on the island (Sparta).
   Here you can learn about the most ancient varieties of olives, the secrets and features of their cultivation and see the technology of olive oil production. The museum also houses the most ancient artifacts associated with this craft - some of them are already about 60 thousand years old.
5. Thermal springs of Kyparissia. Located on the longest beach in Europe, which is washed by the waters of the Ionian Sea. The source originates in the cave of the Nymphs Anigridon. Legends about the ancestors of the mythological hero Troyan are associated with it.
   People from all over the world come here to improve their health and rejuvenate. In addition to health and medical procedures, there is an opportunity to engage in various types of water sports.

What to bring as a souvenir

Having compiled a short guide to the Peloponnese, it is worth talking about gifts. The leadership in the souvenir shops of the Peloponnese is occupied by figurines of ancient Greek gods. The most popular is the statuette of Hermes, the god of trade.

The memory of a trip to Greece can be an amphora, Greek drinking vessels, models of churches. It is worth paying attention to dishes, gold or silver jewelry, cosmetics made from natural ingredients.

Peloponnese is a paradise for lovers of gastronomic tourism

The peninsula is famous for its cult of food and a wide variety of recipes that can contain the most unexpected ingredients. You don't have to go to an expensive restaurant to really appreciate the taste of Greek cuisine.

You can also try local dishes in ordinary cafes. Choriatiki salad, dozens of types of sauces, souvlaki and kokoretsi kebabs, seafood and olive dishes have become traditional local dishes that are recommended for every tourist to try.

Sights of the Peloponnese in the photo

There are many people who want to visit Greece, and in particular the Peloponnese, but these places are still not so popular, and therefore there are no crowds. Here you can relax and feel the spirit of ancient civilization, soak up the beaches, choose an excursion program for every taste and budget.

Peloponnese will help you truly enjoy all the delights Greek culture, history and nature. By taking a map of the Peloponnese, which shows all the main attractions of the peninsula, you will not miss anything. Have a great trip!