Evidence of great past civilisations – Mycenean, Classical, Byzantine – is all around. The scenery can be awesome, particularly in the craggy south, and the beaches can put many an island to shame. Yet in only a few places does tourism take precedence over fishing and agriculture. Lesser known attractions which will delight include the rack-and-pinion railway of Kalavrita; the fantastic caves of Dirou; the arid landscape and ominous tower houses of the inner Mani; and the many hilltop castles.
The north contains the greatest concentration of ancient sites anywhere in Greece – Corinth, Mycenae, Epidavros, Olympia, Argos and Tyrins to name a few. Our resort of Tolon is a wonderful location from which to visit most. Tolon is an organised small resort with daily coach and boat excursions, a long beach, many tavernas and, although busy in season, a very friendly atmosphere.
For more details on the North Peloponnese click here >
The south has fewer big name sites (Byzantine Mystras apart) but compensates with lower tourist numbers, wonderful scenery and untouched villages.
The Messinian peninsula is the westernmost, has the best beaches and is known as ‘the garden of the Peloponnese’. A string of seaside hamlets and miles of uncrowded beaches lead to the impressive fortified towns of Koroni and Methoni, twin Venetian guardians of the gulf. Choose from Chrani, Methoni or Pylos.
The character of the central peninsula, known as Mani, is determined by the great mountain range of Taygetus. The northern half is green and lush, the southern part lunar and unforgiving. Here are the Dirou Caves and tower houses. The village of Kardamili on the north-west coast is one of the prettiest you will find, and particularly recommended for walkers and artists. The easternmost peninsula is notable chiefly for Monemvasia, a vast fortified rock reached by a causeway.
The Peloponnese is ideal for touring – see our Hidden Greece fly-drives > If you do not wish to drive but still want to make the most of this wonderful area we suggest a twin-centre, with Tolon first and any village in the south second.
Recommended Reading:
Landscapes of The Peloponnese
For walkers & explorers, this pocket-sized guide contains walks of all grades, car tours and picnic suggestions, plus bus timetables and large scale walking maps. Intended to be used in addition to a standard guidebook, the cost is £12 per book (incl. p&p) from:
Sunflower Books (dept. SV), P.O. Box 115, Exeter EX2 6YU
