I really like the Peloponnese, especially the central part. Little-known to tourists, central Peloponnese is mountainous. It’s home to numerous villages, monasteries, gorges and waterfalls, as well as a number of ancient sites not to be missed. We tell you a little more about what to do in central Peloponnese.
Sports and outdoor activities
Mountain lovers will be delighted to discover the mountains of central Peloponnese: Mount Chelmos, Killyni, Vorila, Roupakies…
They are ideal for hikers. Numerous signposted trails criss-cross the area. This website lists some of them, with their level of difficulty and time required.
In winter, the region boasts a number of ski resorts. Beware, these are very small resorts, with sometimes aging equipment, but they have a certain old-fashioned charm.
Other sports on offer in the region include horseback riding, paragliding, rafting and canyoning. Manawa offers some of these, or you’ll find specialized outdoor agencies in the villages.
The region is also criss-crossed by rivers that sometimes cascade over waterfalls. Like the Neda waterfalls, for example. Walks along these waterways are delightful and refreshing.
Mountain villages
What to do in central Peloponnese? Visiting the villages, of course. Perched in the mountains, they will appeal to all those in search of authenticity.
Traditionally, the villages lived from agriculture and handicrafts. In Dimitsana, for example, you can visit the Water Museum, which presents the entire river ecosystem (mills and tanneries).
During the War of Independence, they played a crucial role in sheltering and organizing the resistance. During the Second World War, some of them were severely affected, such as Kalavrita. A museum is dedicated to this dark period in history.
Today, the villages still rely on agriculture (livestock and crops), but have also turned to nature-friendly tourism. Hotels are generally located in old village houses. Here are some of the addresses we liked:
- Kalavrita: Hotel Anesi located on the square in the center of the village, just behind the church. Unpretentious but practical, it’s good value for money. It has family rooms.
- Zarouchla: Styga Mountain Resort located in a quiet village, this hotel is a haven of peace… large common room overlooking the mountains, swimming pools. We’re green and calm.
- Dimitsana: Proselinos, in a beautiful traditional building in the heart of the village. Breakfast served in the traditional dining room, in the company of ancestral paintings.
- Abeliona: Abeliona Retreat is a warm and comfortable place in the heart of chestnut groves. The village is a well-known stopover for hikers.
Monasteries
Numerous monasteries nestle against the mountains. It’s easy to visit them, as the monks are very welcoming. Take care, however, to cover your shoulders and legs. And check opening hours.
We visited two monasteries that are well worth a visit:
- Near Dimitsana is the semi-troglodite monastery of Iera Moni Podromou, reached after a short 20-minute walk. Warm welcome from the monks.
- Near Kalavrita, the Mega Spileo monastery lies along the gorge. A magnificent view from this semi-troglodyte monastery.
Ancient sites
The central Peloponnese region is also home to some very beautiful and mythical ancient sites.
- Olympia: a sanctuary dedicated to Zeus, where games were held every 4 years. They are the origin of our modern Olympic Games. In fact, the Olympic flame is always lit here a few days before the event.
- The Temple of Apollo at Bassae: less well known, this temple to the god Apollo is nonetheless a marvel. Its distinctive feature is that it is still completely standing. Unfortunately it had to be covered over, but it remains monumental, in an exceptional site.
=> Other ideas for what to do in central Peloponnese
Sophie B.
