Arcadia – Kalavryta - Korinthia
The mountainous side of Peloponnese
7-8 days - All year round
From 660€
Uncover the landmarks of mountainous Peloponnese in just a single road trip: 7 days, 4 prefectures, endless opportunities for hiking, important archaeological sites, impressive Byzantine monasteries and amazing natural beauty! This trip is perfect for everyone who loves nature and exploration as well as for those who want to experience a different side of Greece!
Explore the charming villages of Arcadia, with the stone houses and scenic squares that will transport you to another era, hike the famous Menalon Trail or take an epic drive around Mount Menalon. Enjoy the crystal-clear waters of Lousios River in a stunning landscape, embark on an unforgettable train journey through the heart of a gorge, climb one of the 4 nearby mountains, rising over 2000 meters, and practice your skiing skills at Kalavryta ski center. Unveil a wonderful alpine lake hidden under Mount Helmos and a rare creation of nature – the popular Cave of the Lakes!
Visit the imposing “hanging” monasteries of the area, taste the local delicacies, herbs, honey and wines, and find yourself at the beautiful Lake Doxa, offering peaceful moments as well as a variety of outdoor activities.
And here is a little surprise: your self-drive tour passes by Ancient Olympia – the sacred site where the ancient Olympic Games were held every four years!
Your journey through the fascinating history and nature of Greece starts here!
Trip highlights
Ancient Olympia
The birthplace of the Olympic Games! The place where the most famous and important sporting event in the world was held every four years from 776 BC to 393 AD. One of the most significant archaeological sites in Greece with over 760 buildings, temples, ruins and masterpieces from the ancient Greek world. Step into the ancient stadium in a wonderful natural landscape filled with almond trees and blooming flowers, and marvel at the famous Hermes of Praxiteles and the statue of Nike of Paionios. A day you will never forget!
The traditional villages of Arcadia – Menalon Trail
Menalon Trail is a 75km certified trail that connects 9 Arcadian villages, offering unforgettable moments, stunning sceneries, and a deep dive into Arcadian nature and culture! Explore the most popular villages of Arcadia either on foot or from the comfort of your vehicle, with short walks at the spots you love the most. The vibrant Vytina, the amphitheatrical Lagkadia, the verdant Stemnitsa, the medieval Valtesiniko, the aristocratic Dimitsana and the historic Karytaina are only some of the gems you will discover along the way!
Lousios River
According to Greek mythology, Lousios River was where the nymphs used to bathe the newborn god Zeus! Today, Lousios is a natural retreat – an ideal destination for swimming, hiking, or relaxing! Its lush gorge, dense forests, beautiful waterfalls, crystal-clear natural pools and historic monasteries create the perfect setting for adventure and exploration.
Mega Spileo Monastery
The oldest continuously operating monastery in Greece and the second oldest in the world, after St. Catherine’s Monastery on Mount Sinai. A significant religious monument, located at an elevation of 940m in a large cave on a sheer cliff, overlooking the Vouraikos Gorge! Prepare for a peaceful and spiritual experience!
The Cave of the Lakes
One of the rarest geological formations in the world with an underground river, approximately 2 kilometers long, running through it! The Cave of the Lakes, once served as the center of a small Neolithic community, presents significant paleontological interest and impresses with its limestone formations, multiple levels and its thirteen blue lakes!
Nemea
Visit the Archaeological Site of Nemea, the place where the legendary Heracles defeated the Nemean Lion and the emblematic Nemean Games were held in antiquity. Many important artifacts from the Early Helladic era to the Early Christian period await you at the Museum, while the experience is enriched by a tasting of the region’s renowned wines – after all, Nemea isn’t the largest wine zone in the Balkans by chance!
Vouraikos Gorge
A scenic train ride or a unique hike along the historic railway line? Why not both? The Vouraikos Gorge, with its tunnel passages, bridges, towering slopes, rushing waterfalls and impressive caves, is a true natural masterpiece! With spectacular views and fascinating stops along the way, every mile of this route is a journey to remember!
Lake Doxa
A wonderful artificial lake surrounded by high mountains and lush forests. A perfect escape for outdoor enthusiasts, horse-riding lovers and relaxation seekers! The enchanting stone-built chapel of Agios Fanourios, standing majestically in the middle of the lake, and the picturesque Byzantine Monastery of Agios Georgios of Feneos will captivate your heart! Savor traditional delights, artisanal cheeses, and aromatic herbs for an authentic taste of the region’s unique flavors & take home the most delicious souvenirs for your friends and family!
Kalavryta
Wander around the beautiful and historic small town of Kalavryta – one of the most popular winter destinations in the prefecture of Achaia. In the winter, hit the slopes of Mount Helmos and sharpen your skiing or snowboarding skills at the Kalavryta Ski Center. In the summer, take a refreshing swim on the sunny beaches of the area! Plus: a beautiful waterfall and a magnificent mountain lake hidden in a lush green forest, await your discovery!
Included in the tour package:
- Detailed itinerary for your trip
- Key travel information, including daily tips and recommendations on attractions, outdoor activities and hiking trails.
- Accommodation
- Breakfast
- Car rental with unlimited mileage and two authorized drivers
- Car insurance & full damage waiver
- Activities and entrance fees, clearly stated in the trip outline
- Public Liability Insurance
- Taxes and VAT
Not included in the tour package:
- Flights to and from Greece (Athens International Airport)
- Meals (for you to choose the restaurants and flavors you really like)
- Fuel, toll and parking costs - Estimated distance for the full trip: 1200km, Estimated toll cost: 25€ (from Athens)
- Climate Resilience Fee per room per night - collected upon departure from the hotel
- Prices are per person and are indicative, based on a trip for two in 2025. The estimate includes an economy-class rental car, accommodation in hotels up to 3 stars, and travel during the mid-season (e.g. May, October, November). Rates reflect current service costs, applicable taxes, and other relevant pricing factors.
Book Your Next Adventure
You are just 6+1 steps away from your next self-drive adventure:
1. Choose your dream destination and travel dates.
2. Answer a few short questions about your interests and hobbies.
3. Get an overview of the trip highlights, attractions, activities and final cost per person based on your preferences.
4. Pay a deposit of 30% of the total amount and sign the contract.
5. Book your flights.
6. Receive a complete, customized travel program/itinerary with key information about all the places, beaches, villages, attractions and interesting spots you will encounter along the way, upon completing the full payment.
6 + 1. Get ready for the ultimate self-guided trip in Greece!