Road trip Peloponnese
Explore the spectacular southern part of continental Greece, abundantly rich with history, culture, natural wonders, and gastronomical delights.
Aegean Adventure.
Details
Best Time: April-November
Suggested period: 8-15 Days.
Couples, Small Groups, Family
The Peloponnesian peninsula is an endless source of rich history and indulgence. On this exciting road trip, discover the rich culture, beautiful villages, coastal towns, pristine beaches, and breathtaking sightseeing, that make this region unforgettable. As it offers a wide assortment of attractions, a road trip is an ideal way to explore the region and to take in all you can from the journey.
Aegean Adventure.
*Our special thanks to Mr. Bosse Engberg for sharing with Greecefully pictures from his Peloponnese adventure.
Aegean Adventure.
An inspiring journey for the senses
Embark on a diverse drive through the heart of Peloponnese and discover the freedom of the open road and its hidden gems.
The incredibly charming port town Nafplio, with the narrow streets overgrown with bougainvillea, Sparti home of the Spartans, Elafonisos an under the radar island that boasts some of the best sandy beaches and pristine waters of Greece, Monemvasia which means “single entrance”, a Medieval city hidden behind its fortress, Gytheio the largest town in Mani and important ancient port, Gerolimenas and Limeni, two incredibly beautiful traditional fish villages and Kardamili one of the prettiest villages with a breath-taking view of the Messinian Gulf, beckon you to explore.
What is included
7 nights’ accommodation in 4* and 5* hotels
Transportation to/from the airport
24hr phone support/assistance
Road trip Peloponnese, Day-by-day itinerary!
Day 1
You will start this epic 7-night trip in Nafplio, the picturesque and bougainvillea-filled first capital of Greece. Here you will find cobbled streets, handmade product shops, cafes, and restaurants. Locals highly recommend a ride to the Palamidi fortress, the highest spot in the area, for wonderful sunset views. Don’t miss the Mycenae palace of King Agamemnon of the Trojan war.
Day 2
Begin your road trip to Monemvasia, stopping along the 4-hour scenic route at Vlychada Beach, Sampatiki Harbor, and Palaio Beach for breathtaking red rock scenery. You will also pass through the Tsimbidis Winery, where a tasting with indigenous Kydonitsa and Mavroudi wines is offered with local delicacies.
Monemvasia Castle, the Greek Gibraltar, has a unique medieval atmosphere. Surrounding medieval alleyways lead to cafés and restaurants overlooking the Aegean Sea, offering a sublime view of the east coast of the Peloponnese.
Day 3
After a short drive to Pounta, a ferry will take you to Elafonisos, a small island of pristine nature. Swim in the emerald waters of Simos and Sarakiniko beaches, two of the best white sand beaches in the Mediterranean, and enjoy an afternoon of snorkeling. A dinner of barbounia, a local species of goatfish, and a glass of ouzo at Psarotaverna Dagiantas restaurant make an excellent finale to the day.
Day 4
Next up, explore more of the Southern part of the Peloponnese. Ride down to the south and you will reach the beautiful coastal Gerolimenas village, where you will stay for the next two nights, right next to the water. Olive oil, honey, cheese, jams, herbs, pies, and pork products are the famous local delicacies you shouldn’t miss.
Visit the nearby abandoned castle town of Vatheia. There you will find historic stone tower houses, also called the Towers of Mani, with very narrow windows for protection against invaders and pirates. Continue to, Cape Matapan (Tainaron for the locals), the mythical gate to the Underworld and the southernmost point of continental Europe, to see a lighthouse, Roman ground mosaics, and the Sanctuary of Poseidon at Tainaron.
Day 5
Take a day trip to Limeni village, a scenic 35 minute drive from your hotel in Gerolimenas. This village of clear waters and excellent hospitality was once a settlement belonging to the famous Captain-Bey Mavromichalis of Mani and his family, who played a leading part in the Greek revolution of 1821. Spend the day exploring the charming stone streets, touring Mavromichali Palace, and dining surfside at a traditional Greek fish tavern with overwater sunset views.
Day 6
Start the day with a stunning two-hour drive to your last destination, Kardamili. On the way, you can stop at the Diros Caves, inhabited since the Neolithic era, for a boat tour of stalactite and stalagmite formations millions of years old. You will also pass Areopoli, a traditional village full of stone alleys and castle-houses, before reaching Kardamili. Take the day to relax and get to know this gorgeous town – a seaside settlement set against a backdrop of crystalline waters, cypress trees, wild olive groves, rolling hills, and distant snow-capped mountains. Upmarket boutiques, cafes, and bars line the main street, and tavernas by the sea offer exceptional Greek fare.
Day 7
Foneas beach is a picturesque rocky beach visited mostly by locals, a small paradise for your last day in Mani. Lapped by the sea, a small canteen sells refreshments and bites to eat.
Day 8
Today you will be saying your farewells. After a rejuvenating week in the Peloponnese, it is time to return home with an unforgettable travel experience. We hope to see you again soon.