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A brief tour of the Peloponnese

29 September 2013 / 20:09:08  GRReporter
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The Peloponnese is the largest peninsula in Greece and consists of seven areas: Achaia, Ilia, Messinia, Arkadia, Lakonia, Argolida and Corinthia. Each area enchants visitors with interesting history - from prehistoric times to the present, and each is characterised by its unique natural beauty and a variety of landscapes.

Important monuments, unique villages, picturesque towns and impressive castles, but also natural beauties, such as mountains, forests, rivers, caves, and beaches make the Peloponnese an ideal place for visitors in all seasons and for various purposes - entertainment, recreation, but also knowledge of history and culture.

Corinthia: with a strategic geographical position

We can start our tour from Loutraki, located in the first area that we will pass through upon entering the Peloponnese from Attica. The town attracts visitors from all over Greece with its famous mineral springs that originate from many places in the Bay Area, covering an area of about 750 metres. Visitors also come here for the town’s beautiful beach and vibrant nightlife.

In Corinthia, you can explore the famous Corinthian Canal, which was dug in 1880-1893 and links the Corinthian and Saronic Gulf. You can also visit Akrokorinthos with its impressive fortress, the Temple of Aphrodite and beautiful view.

Going further to the west to the city of Patras, you will pass through beautiful small villages and cities with clean beaches, such as Vrahati, Derveni, Kiato and Xilokastro, which are some of the most famous resorts of the Peloponnese.

Achaia: "The gate" of Greece to Europe

Achaia is one of the areas of the Peloponnese boasting rich history. It represents the "sea gate" of Greece to Europe. Upon entry into the area, you will go through Akrata, Diakoptó and Egio, the second largest city in Achaia. This is a beautiful city with a long history, built amphitheatrically, with a magnificent view over the Corinthian Gulf. Egio visitors will find the old town and the beach particularly interesting - from the train station to the church of the Virgin Mary, as well as old warehouses for raisins, which have now been renovated and turned into cafes.

Just before you reach Patras, you will see the spectacular bridge connecting the Peloponnese with mainland Greece - Rio Andirio, which was built in 2004.

Patras - the capital city of Achaia, with the famous carnival and good mood is an important port, and is worth a visit in order to explore the medieval castle, the famous "Achaia Claus" winery, the impressive church of St. Andreas and the new Archaeological Museum.

Patras

If you continue west, you will pass through small coastal villages with beautiful beaches, such as Lakopetra and Kalogria, as well as through the unique Strofilia pine forest.

Ilia: endless sandy beaches

If you continue southwest, you will reach Amaliada, the second largest city of the Ilia region, with numerous archaeological monuments and sites.

You will encounter a lot of large and impressive sandy beaches along the way, such as those at Killini and Kourouta, as well as Lake Kaiafas, which was declared a nature reserve and is a centre of spa tourism in the region.

Lake Kaiafas

Pyrgos, the capital city of the region was especially developed at the time when raisins were actively grown here (19th century - 1930), thanks to its geographical position.

Near Lake Kaiafas, you will find the town of Zacharo, which ends with a beautiful wide sandy beach. The surrounding area is lush, there are many olive and pine trees, and not far from it you can visit the beautiful Neda Gorge and Ancient Olympia.

Messinia: olive groves, blue-green sea and historical monuments

Kyparissia, with its traditional village in the Old Town and impressive castle, endless olive groves, blue-green sea, historical monuments and natural beauty, is a place that enchants every visitor.

You can feel the beauty of the Messinia region in the picturesque town of Pylos, embraced in Navarino Bay. This is a lovely coastal town with bright island colours and the famous fort, towering at the harbour entrance.

Pylos

The beautiful towns of Methoni and Koroni are located at both ends of the first finger of the Peloponnese, with famous Venetian fortresses, sandy beaches and interesting sights in the surroundings. The capital of the Kalamata region is also an interesting destination, famous for its beautiful landscapes and attractions, as well as its local products, which are an essential part of the Mediterranean diet.

Kardamili and Stoupa in the western part of the second finger are two villages with wonderful beaches and crystal clear waters and many natural beauties.

Lakonia: original traditions and beaches

Tags: Peloponnese tour tourism archaeological sites
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