EPICUREAN APOLLO - HIKING IN THE OLYMPIAN VINEYARDS (TEMPLE OF ATHENA)

Our day starts with a meeting-and getting acquainted with our experienced escort-followed by departure for the broader region of Ancient Olympia, to the traditional area of Skyllountia which is located opposite the mythical river of Alpheus.

1)EPICUREAN APOLLO - HIKING IN THE OLYMPIAN VINEYARDS (TEMPLE OF ATHENA)

Our day starts with a meeting-and getting acquainted with our experienced escort-followed by departure for the broader region of Ancient Olympia, to the traditional area of Skyllountia which is located opposite the mythical river of Alpheus. After passing the Alpheus water barrier , we will visit the place where, in 430 B.C, the Athenians banished the famous historian Xenophon. We will visit the unknown temple of the Goddess Athena in Skyllountia and then hike through (duration 45 minutes) the golden land of Olympia. We will cross groves and vineyards and visit the local Markogianni’s winery. At Markogianni’s winery we will taste local wine produced from local grapes and aged in oak barrels. Also Raki, accompanied by local food.
Afterwards, we will head for the " Peloponnese Parthenon " were we will admire the unique temple which is an exact replica of the Parthenon and was built in honor of the God Apollo.
Then we shall move to beautiful Andritsaina which features traditional architecture of stone built buildings. In Andritsaina there will be plenty of available time for lunch and to walk the picturesque streets. Late in the afternoon we will return to Olympia.
Did you know that ...
The Temple of Apollo is one of the largest, most impressive and best preserved temples of antiquity. It is the only temple which combines elements of three architectural styles of antiquity (Doric, Ionic, Corinthian) and it was the first monument in Greece which was included in UNESCO World Heritage in 1986.

2)EXPLORING THE BEAUTIFUL LAND OF MESSINIA

Our day starts with a meeting-and getting acquainted with our experienced escort. Then we will depart to the beautiful province of Messinia, crossing the coastal route along the Ionian Sea. We shall make a short stop in the town of Kyparissia for coffee and a walk. After following an enchanting route, we will arrive at the wetland ,Yalova , where we shall hike (lasting 30-40 minutes) along the "Trail of Nature". During the hike, will learn about the great fauna and flora of the region and we will arrive at the unparalleled beauty of the bay "Voidokoilia" where there will be free time for swimming at one of the most beautiful beaches in the Mediterranean. After swimming we will visit historical Pylos where we shall dine in a he fish tavern. Then we will visit Methoni beach to enjoy a coffee and ice cream-next to the imposing castle. Late in the afternoon we will depart back to Olympia.

3)NEDA WATERFALLS-ANCIENT LEPREO (TEMPLE OF DIMITRA).

Our day starts with a meeting-and geting acquainted with our experienced escort-followed by departure for the village of “Lepreo”. The village of Lepreo is built in a panoramic position and has a beautiful view. We shall visit the Temple of Dimitra and then make a short stop at the village square for coffee in the traditional cafes. Our next stop is the village Paflitsa which is built on the famous Acropolis of Ancient Phigaleia. From there we descend, by foot, the magnificent canyon of the river Neda. At the end of the gorge is a large waterfall where you will be able to swim into the crystal clear waters of the river.
On our return, we will stop at the village of Pervolia where you can taste local delicacies under large trees with running water. Then we will drive to the coastal town of Zaharo for coffee. Late in the afternoon we will return to Olympia.
Did you know that ...
The river Neda is the only river in Greece with a female name. According to mythology, Neda was a nymph, a goddess of water who, along with two other nymphs Thisoa and Agno, nursed the infant , saving him from Cronus, who ate his children.