Day 1: Welcome to Pelagia – Your Gateway to Winter Wonders
Embark on a thrilling winter escapade in the heart of the Peloponnese, starting with your arrival in Athens. From there, a scenic 2 hour drive will lead you to your accommodation provided by Pelagia Greece Vacations. We are located just 400 metres from the Kalavryta highway, and an easy 20 km from Kalavrita ski resort.
Unpack, relax and explore the olive and fruit trees on the property. If you need to get supplies, the supermarket is a short 8km drive, then come back and enjoy the balcony and courtyard, or fire up the heating system and fireplace.
Day 2: Conquering the Slopes of Kalavryta Ski Centre
Rise and shine for a day filled with snow and excitement at the Kalavryta Ski Center on Mount Helmos. With slopes for every skill level, both beginners and seasoned skiers will find their haven. As the largest ski center in the Peloponnese, it’s the perfect place to make those winter dreams a reality.
The ski center boasts 12 runs spanning a total length of 20 kilometers, catering to both beginners and advanced skiers and snowboarders, ensuring a diverse experience for all skill levels.
For the upcoming winter season, lift pass prices are as follows:
- Adults €30 during high season and €20 during low season;
- Half-day passes (after 13:00) are €20 for high season and €14 for low season.
- There are discounts available for children aged 5-18, students (excluding university students from outside the EU), and athletes under 25.
- There are special rates for individuals over 70, and those with disabilities.
- A family pass, which requires the physical presence of the entire family at the ticket office, is priced at €70 in high season and €50 in low season.
Ski schools are available, offering lessons for both skiing and snowboarding, catering to learners of all ages and skill levels.
For families with young children, the KidSnow Garden and beginner lifts provide a safe and enjoyable introduction to snow sports. The centre also offers activities like snowmobile rides and skibiking, making it an ideal location for family fun.
Day 3: Natural Wonders at the Cave of Lakes and Wine Tasting at Achaia Clauss Winery
After the adrenaline rush, it’s time to explore the natural beauty of the region with a visit to the mesmerizing Cave of the Lakes.
Located in Kastria, Achaea (about 17 km from Kalavryta and 9 km from Kleitoria), the Cave of Lakes is a mesmerizing natural wonder that stands out for its unique geological features and historical significance., this cave is not just a beautiful spectacle but also a site of scientific interest.
The cave is renowned for its three levels and a series of cascading lakes formed by a subterranean river. In winter, melting snow transforms the cave into a flowing river with waterfalls, and in summer, the water recedes, revealing thirteen lakes of varying sizes.
This cycle creates a dynamic and ever-changing landscape within the cave, making it one of the most unique cave systems in the world.
You can explore its interior via an artificial tunnel that leads to the second floor. Man-made bridges facilitate navigation from one lake to another, offering a close-up view of this natural marvel. The site also includes an information centre, providing a comprehensive exhibition designed to educate you about the cave’s geology, prehistory, and the findings unearthed within its depths.
In the afternoon, delight your senses with a wine tasting tour at the Achaia Clauss Winery, a historical gem that’s been producing exquisite wines since the 19th century.
The winery welcomes guests every day from 10:30 to 18:30, offering two different tour programs.
These tours include visits to historic cellars filled with barrels of sweet Mavrodaphne dating back to 1873, the Imperial Cellar, the Underground Wine Cellar, and conclude with selected wine tasting at the Cava Danielis. Tours take up to 2 hours, depending on the program chosen.
Day 4: A Journey Back in Time at Ancient Olympia
No visit to the Peloponnese is complete without stepping into the past at Ancient Olympia, the birthplace of the Olympic Games. Explore ancient ruins and learn about the history that shaped our world. It’s a day trip that offers a perfect blend of culture and history.
Morning: Arrival and Archaeological Site
- Start with the Archaeological Site: Begin your day at the Archaeological Site of Olympia. The crisp winter air adds a serene atmosphere to the ruins, making it a perfect time to explore the birthplace of the Olympic Games without the summer heat. Highlights include the Temple of Zeus and the ancient Olympic Stadium, as well as the gymnasium, and Palaestra. The cooler temperatures are ideal for walking around and taking in the site’s vast history.
- Temple of Zeus and Olympic Torch Area: Visit the remnants of the Temple of Zeus and the area where the Olympic torch is lit.
Midday: Museum Visit and Lunch
- Olympia Archaeological Museum: After exploring the outdoor ruins, the museum offers a cozy escape from the cold. It houses artifacts and exhibitions that delve deeper into the history of the Olympic Games and the site’s significance.
- Traditional Greek Lunch: Enjoy a warm, traditional Greek meal in a local taverna. Winter is an excellent time to savor hearty Greek dishes that will comfort you in the cooler weather, such as rich stews, grilled meats, and warm pies.
Afternoon: Further Exploration
After exploring the historical marvels of Ancient Olympia, there are several nearby attractions that can enrich your experience in the region:
- Thermal Baths and Lake of Kaiafas: Just 12 miles south of Ancient Olympia, this area is known for its hot springs with healing properties and a beautiful lake formed in the 6th century A.D. The location offers relaxation and a chance to enjoy the natural beauty of the western Peloponnese. The thermal baths are open from June to October, including the winter months of the region’s mild climate. They operate from 07:15 am until 3 pm, and in August and September, they extend hours until 7:30 pm.
- Nemouta Waterfalls: About 17 miles from Ancient Olympia, the village of Nemouta is a hidden gem, home to around 30 waterfalls set in a lush forest along the Erymanthos river. In winter, the weather can be colder and the trails may be slippery due to rain or snow, making the trek more challenging. Be well-prepared with appropriate clothing, waterproof hiking boots, and traction devices if there is snow or ice.
- Temple of Apollo Epicurius: Located 39 miles from Ancient Olympia, near the village of Abeliona in the mountains of Arcadia, this UNESCO-protected site is often referred to as the Parthenon of the Peloponnese. The temple is dedicated to Apollo, the God of Healing, and its secluded location among forests makes it a peaceful and under-visited site worth exploring. It is open to the public during Winter until 3:30pm.
Day 5: Skiing at Mainalo Ski Centre
The Mainalo Ski Center offers 8 slopes, catering to different skill levels. The cost for a day pass at the ski center is €16 for adults and €13 for children during the main season.
The ski center is equipped for both skiing and snowboarding, with lessons for both available.
Day 6: Discovering the Charm of Vytina (or Ski Again at Mainalo)
Vytina is a mountain village located in Arcadia. The village is surrounded by lush forests, making it an idyllic destination, particularly for those interested in nature and outdoor activities.
In Vytina during the winter, you can enjoy a range of activities that make the most of its picturesque mountain setting:
- Skiing and Snowboarding: With the Mainalo Ski Center nearby, Vytina serves as a convenient base for those looking to hit the slopes.
- Winter Hiking: The surrounding forests and mountain trails offer opportunities for winter hiking, allowing visitors to enjoy the serene beauty of the snow-covered landscape.
- Explore Traditional Architecture: Vytina is known for its traditional stone houses and public buildings, which can be particularly enchanting when dusted with snow.
- Local Greek Food: Visitors can taste local dishes and warm up with traditional Greek mountain teas and other specialties in the village’s taverns and cafes.
- Cultural Experiences: Engage with the local culture by visiting the village’s churches and learning about the region’s history and traditions.
These activities, combined with the village’s natural beauty and traditional charm, make Vytina an attractive winter destination in the Peloponnese.
Day 7: Farewell Athens
As all good things must come to an end, your winter adventure concludes with a return trip to Athens. If time allows, make a stop at the Corinth Canal for a spectacular view that bridges the Peloponnese with mainland Greece.
Staying with Pelagia Greece means you’re not just booking a place to sleep; you’re unlocking the door to an immersive experience in the Peloponnese. Each of our self-contained accommodations is perfectly situated to offer you the best of winter activities, from thrilling ski slopes to serene snow-covered landscapes, all while ensuring the comfort and warmth of a home away from home.
Ready to embark on your winter adventure? Book your stay with us and discover the Peloponnese like never before.
