Where is the best vacation in the Peloponnese. Attractions in Peloponnese Peninsula

The Peloponnese is a peninsula in the south of Greece, rich in monuments that represent almost the entire ancient history of the country. Here are the legendary palaces of Agamemnon, and the famous Olympia, an incredible number of Venetian, Turkish palaces, beautiful temples and even battlefields from the times of Antiquity. But not only the abundance of attractions amazes in the Peloponnese, here the tourist also has excellent opportunities for a wide variety of recreation - from active exciting pastime to calm relaxation on pleasant sandy shores.

Read the article and find out everything about holidays in Peloponnese Greece in 2020 - prices, beaches, activities and attractions, as well as other important information.

Brief historical background

It must be said that no more, no less, but it was here that the great civilization of the ancient Greeks was born. The Achaeans, glorified by Homer himself, lived in the Peloponnese for more than a thousand years before the beginning of our era. On the peninsula, there were such formations as the harsh Sparta known to everyone. The Spartans owned the area until the 4th century BC. Later, when one civilization replaced another, the peninsula passed into the hands of the warlike invaders, the Romans, and then was ruled by Byzantium and the Venetian Republic.

In the Middle Ages, in the 15th century, the peninsula was called Morea and was captured by the Turkish army. In the 17th and 18th centuries, for some time it was again under the rule of the Venetians. And in 19 the peninsula became the center of the war of independence from the Ottoman Empire, and as a result of Greece gaining the desired liberation, this area again began to be controlled by the descendants of the original population.

Now the Peloponnese is large tourist center, after all, everything that remains as a result of such a turbulent and eventful history attracts tourists very much, and a beach vacation here is wonderful.

Brief Geography and Climate

The Peloponnese is a peninsula connected to the Balkan Peninsula by the Isthmus of Corinth. This channel separates the Ionian and Aegean Seas from each other. Administratively it is divided into the regions of Achaea, Elia, Argolis, Arcadia, Corinthia, Laconia, Messinia. The largest city- Patras.

The Peloponnese has a relief from both plains and mountains. The Taygetos mountains rise up to 2000 meters in height. There are many rivers, lakes, mountain springs on the peninsula. The vegetation is also rich: wonderful cedars, chestnuts, plane trees, as well as rare plants, fruit trees.

The climate of the peninsula is mild, winters are not cold, and summers are not too hot. There is practically no rainfall in the summer. If you want to travel to the Peloponnese for a beach holiday, the best time is from late May to late October. Most tourists choose, of course, July and August.

Peloponnese on the map

Safety in the Peloponnese

Of course, ancient Olympia can be considered one of the earliest and most important historical monuments, this is the place where the Olympic Games were first organized and started. In Olympia, you can see the ruins of a temple dedicated to Zeus.

Probably, there is no person in the modern world who has not heard of the legendary ancient Greek city of Mycenae. After all, it was here that Agamemnon lived, who led the Achaeans to Troy, and not only he, but also a large number of Homeric characters, heroes of myths and legends of Greece. It was in this place that one of the world's most famous archaeological finds, the golden mask, was discovered. Until now, you can see the remains of the fortress, megarons.

Near Loutraki, if you are staying at this popular resort, you can see several temples from the period of antiquity and Byzantine rule. In Patras, you should pay attention to Orthodox church- St. Andrew's Cathedral, where the relics of the saint are kept, take a walk through the old district of Palia Petra. From Kalamata it is worth going to the city of Koroni: to look at the Venetian fortress and the Byzantine castle.

The peninsula is rich in natural beauty. So, a visit to the Diru (Lakonia) caves will give you an amazing experience. They are equipped with everything you need to see these stunning beauties: stalactites and stalagmites, as well as a beautiful underground lake, on which you can even ride a boat.

The Corinth Canal is not entirely natural, but a man-made landmark: it is an artificially created watershed. When you are near Corinth, you should definitely take a look at the canal and, if possible, take a boat trip.

Things to Do in Peloponnese

For lovers active rest you will not be bored in the Peloponnese: on almost all comfortable beaches, which are popular resort areas, you can go water skiing or motorbiking, as well as fly over the great and ancient peninsula by parachute. Children and adults alike will love the water park located near Corinth, and those who prefer other types of water entertainment, it will be interesting to look at the diving center near Achaea.

During the first months of autumn, the west coast of the Peloponnese is ideal for surfing and windsurfing. It is interesting that some still go to the peninsula in winter - after all, ski resorts work in the Peloponnese at this time. The most famous of them are Kalavrita and Menalo.

From entertainment in the Peloponnese, there is a huge variety of excursion tours that involve visiting historical sites and exploring the oldest sights of Greece. However, the peninsula is not quite suitable for those who travel to Greece for parties and noisy nightlife. Small authentic taverns and cafes with Greek cuisine are more common there. But some resorts are still considered more suitable for youth nightlife: for example, the largest casino in Greece is located in Loutraki, and many bars and discos are located in Patras.

In the city of Epidaurus, you can still watch a traditional Greek performance: the staging of the ancient tragedy "Oresteia" on the stage of an ancient theater.

When it comes to shopping, on the peninsula you can pay attention to clothes and shoes produced by local companies. It is quite high quality, but inexpensive. What to bring from a souvenir shop from this glorious place? For example, it could be:

• a figurine of an Olympic deity;
• amphora;
• ceramics;
• natural cosmetics made from olive;
• olive oil;
• silk from Kalamata or wool from Caminia.

The culinary traditions of Greece have long been famous throughout the world. Greek cuisine is considered a very healthy diet, beneficial to the body, and besides, it is very tasty. You should definitely not rush to fast food or traditional food, but try local dishes. Souvlaki kebabs, traditional choriatica salad, grilled lamb roll called kokoretsi ... In coastal establishments, you should definitely also have fish and seafood dishes, because fishing in Greece has flourished since ancient times.

The average bill for a dinner for two in one of the meat taverns of the peninsula will be about 20 euros, in a fish tavern - 30 euros. Self-purchase of groceries in supermarkets will be carried out at the rate of approximately 12 euros per person per day. If you still want to try fast food, take the Greek gyros for a couple of euros.

It is impossible to cover all the beauties of the Peloponnese in one article. As you can see, it all depends on the choice of the resort, the ability to travel around the peninsula, the travel time. However, every corner of the Peloponnese pleases both lovers of natural beauty and those who are delighted with antiquity, since where, if not here, both are truly in Greek abundance.

Finally, a little more of the atmosphere of the Peloponnese - in the video:

I first came to the Peloponnese 6 years ago when I was looking for a more civilized and inexpensive alternative to Montenegro and Croatia. The first delight grew first into passion, and then became true love.

The Peloponnese is a huge peninsula, and you won't be able to get to know it in one trip. It is worth starting by answering the questions:

• When do I want to go?
• What do I want to do?
• How will I navigate?

Oddly enough, but the question of cost can remain behind the scenes - as soon as you find yourself in places far from the tourist mainstream, or outside the high season, travel becomes quite inexpensive, especially by European standards. If you are interested in history, then the Peloponnese is you. will truly amaze. Here everything breathes Homer, here you can wander around the "gold-rich Mycenae", swim in the spring of Helena the Beautiful, or walk to the sources of the Styx, in which the mother bathed little Achilles. Here Hercules performed his most striking feats and it was here that the history of the Olympic Games began.

If you like active rest - Peloponnese will delight you and alpine skiing, and rafting, and scenic walking and volomore routes. Lovers of lying in the sun will not be disappointed either - the beaches here can be found for every taste.

For lovers of good food with the right approach, an unforgettable experience awaits in the Peloponnese. Not only every district, but every place can boast of some unique taste. The northern part of the peninsula is riddled with "wine roads": local wines are known all over the world and receive the highest awards in international competitions. Nearby, in small family cheese dairies, you can taste unique local cheese varieties. In the mountains of Arcadia, wonderful honey is collected, jams are made everywhere from anything, up to olives. Olives and olive oil in the Peloponnese are a separate topic and each region has its own varieties.

Hope my review, full of love and affection for the Peloponnese, will help you decide on the time and place of your next trip.

How to get there

The road to the Peloponnese is an equation with several unknowns. First you need to decide on the geography of your trip. If you are heading north - to Corinthia, Achaia or Argolis - then it is definitely easier to fly to Athens and travel further on land. If you are going to Yuzhnoe or Southwest coast then it makes sense to fly to Kalamata. It is easier to get to the West Coast via Patras. I will make a reservation right away that traveling from other cities of Russia will most likely have to come here via Moscow. There is also a direct plane from St. Petersburg to Athens, but its cost is significantly higher, and the schedule is poor.

The next question is how do you plan to relax? Choose a specific place and, if possible, make excursions around, or you want to arrange a real road adventure, moving from place to place. In the second case, I recommend traveling through - there are more flight options, the cheapest car rental and a wonderful bus station, from where you can go to almost any corner you like.

By plane

The northern part of the peninsula is accessible via Athens, which saves on tickets. Ticket prices are highly dependent on the season and the planning period. My personal experience shows that it is cheapest to fly with Aegean Airlines or Elinair, and with charter flights there is no point in contacting Athens.

Prices for the first flight from Moscow in high season start at 250 EUR for a round trip ticket. Tickets from St. Petersburg will cost at least 50 euros more. Depending on the fare, you may have to pay extra for luggage from EUR 30 for a 20-23 kg bag. To catch these prices, I book summer flights no later than March – April. If you are unable to plan ahead, then tickets will most likely cost you from 350 EUR per person.

If you have the opportunity to choose, then it is best to travel to the Peloponnese, and throughout Greece, outside the high season. I constantly monitor the sales of airlines and, in my experience, it is quite possible to buy tickets, for example, for 130–150 EUR round trip, even with a flight from St. Petersburg. A maximum discount of 30% (from a deliberately lower price) is usually available when booking 4-6 months before the trip, in addition, there are one-time discounts for the destination. It is possible to compare prices for bylits on current dates.

How to get to the Peloponnese

You will have to travel at least 400 km to the south, southeast and southwest of the Peloponnese from Athens, so if you are not afraid of a charter flight or the tedious waiting for a connecting flight, then you can choose one of two airports located directly in the Peloponnese.

The most convenient of them is Kalamata airport in the southern part of the peninsula. From here it is convenient to get to Laconia (Monemvasia, Mani, Gythio) and Messinia (Koroni, Methoni, Pylos). From the beginning of June to the end of September, direct flights from Moscow fly here on Tuesdays and Sundays. Early bird tickets start at EUR 330 for a round trip. If you are not afraid of transfers or if you have no other choice, then you can get here by Lufthansa via or by Aegean Airlines via Athens, but you will hardly be able to save on such a flight.

The second airport of the Peloponnese, Araxos, is located on the western tip of the peninsula near Patras, the third most populous city in Greece. From here it is convenient to get to the western part of Achaia (Patras, Kalavrita), Ilia (Pyrgos, Olympia) and Arcadia (and the famous mountain villages). From the end of May to the beginning of October, a charter from Moscow flies here 4 times a week. Tickets cost from 380 EUR for a round trip. Despite the popularity of the destination, it is, alas, impossible to get here outside the summer season.

By train

I live in the north of the Peloponnese and usually get here from Athens by train. If you need to get to Achaia or Corinthia, this is the most economical and convenient option, especially if you are arriving at Athens International Airport: railroad station located next to and connected to the airport by a glass passage.

At the same time, it must be borne in mind that the railway is currently being reconstructed and the train itself will take you only to Kyato, a small town in Corinthia. Further, the OSE railway company offers travelers to change to a special bus that can take you to Patras. Trains run every hour and a bus goes directly to the train at the terminal station. Most often it is an express bus, 4 times a day the bus stops at Dyakofto.

Fare from international airport Athens to Kyato - 14 EUR. Children under 12 enjoy 50% discount. The bus fare is added to the fare, depending on the destination, you will have to pay an additional 4–6 EUR. A bus ticket can be bought both at the departure station and in Chiatto.

In addition to the main railway line, the Dyakofto-Kalavryta tourist railway also operates in the Peloponnese, which not only brings everyone to this popular ski resort, but is itself a landmark and a kind of attraction.

By bus

The bus is often the most convenient by public transport that will take you anywhere in the Peloponnese. Intercity passenger transportation is serviced by the KTEL company. All buses are air-conditioned and often have wi-fi. The roads are mostly fine, although in mountainous areas rather winding, and the views are simply unforgettable.

The main difficulty for an inexperienced traveler is getting to the central bus station from the airport of arrival.To get to the bus stations in Araxos and Kalamata, you will have to take a taxi. At the Athens airport, in addition to a taxi (the issue price is 35–40 EUR), you can use the special express X93, which departs every 30–40 minutes from a stop between the 4th and 5th exits at the “arrivals” level. Travel time to the bus station is about an hour. This is the final stop, so it is impossible to miss. The fare is 6–8 EUR.

There is always information in English at the bus station, and people around will be happy to help you find your stop and not confuse the bus. The fare is quite adequate and depends on the distance, for example, a trip from Athens to Kalamata will cost about 25 EUR.

By car

A rented car is the most convenient way to travel in the Peloponnese, which not only completely unties your hands, but also often saves you money compared to public transport.

The road to the Peloponnese from the Athens airport is an excellent high-speed highway, which will cost you about 7 EUR to get to the Corinth Canal, which separates the peninsula from the mainland. Of course, you can drive along the old free road, but in this case you will have to spend 4 hours instead of one.

After crossing the canal, you have a choice: head east to northern part Argolis (Epidaurus, Metana, Ermioni), continue your way inland (Nafpaktia, Arcadia, Laconia, Messinia) and or go west (Corinthia, Achaia, Ilia, western part of Messinia). At the same time, you will always have an alternative to toll roads. Moreover, it cannot be said that free is worse. Rather, on the contrary, you will miss a lot by traveling on the highway. But if time is your main value, feel free to drive on the toll highway, the savings are more than significant.

By ferry

It is worth going by ferry to the Peloponnese only in 2 cases. If you are traveling from Italy or if you want to visit Aegina, Agistri or Poros on the way to the Peloponnese.

The ferry from Italy is convenient for those who decide to get to Greece by car through central Europe. For example, you can see Venice, and then take a ride on the sea (30 hours) in order to emerge from the cargo deck in Patras in your own car and go where you look. If a 30 hour boat trip is a bit too much for you, you can take a ferry to Ancona (23 hours) or Bari (17.5 hours on the way). This is the fastest and cheapest ferry, a ticket for a company of 4 people, for example 2 adults and 2 children in a regular car, will cost at least 400 EUR one way.

The second route to the Peloponnese by ferry begins in Piraeus, the port of Athens, which can be reached by metro, city buses, and taxi. The minimum cost of a ferry in the same company will be about 60 EUR. The cost when traveling with a car with a visit on the road, for example, the beautiful Aegina, will cost 2 times more.

Prompt:

Peloponnese - time is now

Difference in hours:

Moscow 1

Kazan 1

Samara 2

Ekaterinburg 3

Novosibirsk 5

Vladivostok 8

When is the season. When is the best time to go

The Peloponnese is beautiful all year round. I do not even presume to recommend a particular season, because in this way I will detract from the beauty and advantages of other seasons. So whenever your long-awaited vacation happens, the Peloponnese will have something to please you.

Peloponnese in summer

The beginning of June in the Peloponnese is beautiful for its freshness and lack of crowds of tourists. The weather can still be unstable, and the sea is not warm enough (+ 20-22 ° С). To relax by the sea at this time, it is better to go to the west coast, as well as to Messinia and Laconia. There are many sandy beaches with shallow water, so the sea warms up faster.

From the end of June, the most successful period begins for trips across the warm sea with a minimum of people and a relatively low prices... The influx of tourists begins in the second half of July, and along with the increase in the number of people, the quality of your vacation will decline. This rule, unfortunately, works everywhere in the Peloponnese and especially affects the quality of food in coastal taverns.

When planning a vacation by the sea in July and August, I have always preferred the coast of the Gulf of Corinth in the north of the Peloponnese. Thanks to the dense greenery and protection from the hot southerly winds, it is always a little cooler here, and the lower humidity and constant breeze make it easier to tolerate even intense heat... An alternative would be the north and east coast of Argolis.

Peloponnese in autumn

Classes in Greek schools begin on September 15, so it is worth going for the velvet season from the second half of September to mid-October. At this time, the best sea is amazingly viscous, calm, transparent, very comfortable temperature with a subtle autumn note. And the weather pleases with mild warmth and calm, albeit cool, evenings. average temperature water in September +25 ° С, in October +23 ° С; the air during the day usually warms up within + 25-30 ° С. You can go anywhere at this time, the whole Peloponnese is beautiful.

After October 15, changes in the weather become more noticeable, it starts raining, it can be windy and cool (+ 18-20 ° С). The sea is still quite warm (+ 21-23 ° С), so Russians who are accustomed to river water can easily swim. At this time begins Golden autumn, which can only be seen in the mountains, for example, in the unique oak forest of Foloi, where islands of lush green grass in the meadows contrast brightly with a thick golden carpet of oak leaves.

Peloponnese in spring

In fact, spring in the Peloponnese begins in the last decade of February. There are more and more sunny and dry days, and the daytime temperature rises to + 16-18 ° C, or even higher. Almonds and magnolias begin to bloom, and the air is filled with the aromas of honey. The beginning of spring is best for exploring the archaeological sites of the Peloponnese; the thousand-year-old ruins are covered with a colorful floral carpet and you get the feeling that you have found yourself in a cartoon by Hayao Miyatszaki.

The big spring, which for us looks more like summer, begins in the second half of April. At this time, on the coast, you can admire the blooming tamarisks and eucalyptus, and the roadsides turn red with poppies. If you are lucky and the hot summer weather lasts for several days in a row, the sea can easily warm up to + 22-23 ° С.

At this time, it is good to travel to the towns that are in summer season overcrowded with tourists, for example staying in Monemvasie, Nafplio or Pylos. Each of them is also the key to the whole region.

Peloponnese in winter

Winter for me is the best time to visit the Peloponnese. The fact is that it is in winter that the climatic difference between Greece and Russia is most felt. Daylight hours here lasts much longer, and the sun itself is much longer. Statistically, there are a couple of rainy days per week, one cloudy, and the rest of the time resembles a nice day in the cavalry in October or early April. On average, daytime temperatures are kept in the region of + 12-14 ° С, there are also cold snaps, when the temperature drops below + 10 ° С, and warming up to + 16-18 ° С. Of course, we are talking about the coast. In the mountains, temperatures are 10-15 degrees lower, snow falls, which allows ski resorts to function.

For the celebration of Christmas and New Year, it is better to choose busy city, for example Nafplio. If you like a fireplace-mulled wine-snowball atmosphere, then you can visit the tourist villages in the mountains serving local ski resorts such as Trikala, Zarukhlu or Kalavritu.

In mid-January, a real miracle begins - alkeonides - something like our Indian summer, but only in the middle of winter. The temperature rises to + 16-18 ° С and the weather is calm and sunny. This phenomenon usually lasts for about a week and gives the bravest an opportunity to swim. Actually sea ​​water in January it is warmer than in March, and usually keeps around + 17 ° С. In shallow lagoons, or where thermal springs flow into the sea, the temperature can reach + 20 ° C.

Preparations for the upcoming carnival begin in February. The largest of them, and not only in the Peloponnese, but throughout Greece, takes place in Patras. If you want to see an older version, you can go to one of the villages of mountainous Arcadia, and if you want to see the "Venetian carnival", then to Nafplio.

Prompt:

Peloponnese - monthly weather

What are the prices for rest

The Peloponnese offers relaxation for every budget. Even in the high season you can find here prices in the region of 30 EUR for a double room per day. The more difficult thing is to find the luxury and exclusive level of service. General rule: the more famous the place, the more expensive it is.

Food in taverns is somewhat cheaper here than in more tourist-developed regions. If we exclude fish and exclusive restaurants, the average bill will be 10–15 EUR per person with alcohol (house wine). In an ordinary fish tavern, you will have to pay from 20 EUR per person.

The cost of tickets for attractions of the first magnitude (Olympia, Mycenae) is 12 EUR (children under 18 visit sites and museums for free), for less significant ones - 6–8 EUR, entrance to local museums usually costs 3 EUR. Entertainment attractions, such as caves, cost about the same, but there is a 30-50% discount for children

You can save money by visiting attractions on special days when free admission is provided. Each place may have its own additional days, but the general list looks like this:

• April 18 (International Day of Monuments),
• May 18 (International Museum Day),
• Last weekend in September (European Heritage Day),
• October 28 ("Ohi" day),
• Every first Sunday of the month from November 1st to March 31st.

Major attractions. What to see

The Peloponnese is unusually rich in attractions, and it is a difficult task to single out the top 5 of them.

My personal top five top places I will compose of the classic sights, for which it is worth making a long journey even from the other end of the peninsula.

Top 5

Beaches. Which is better

The Peloponnese is huge and there are good beaches everywhere. There are not many truly unique ones. Clockwise as always

Churches and temples. Which are worth visiting

The Peloponnese is traditionally one of the centers of religious tourism in Greece. There are no such large monastic centers as Meteora, but there are places that are no less powerful. When planning your visits to monasteries, it is worth taking care of proper clothing (there are few places where "skirts" are distributed) and visiting time (each monastery has its own schedule, which also depends on the season). If you want to get there for sure, then you should come in the morning, before the siesta break, which starts at one in the afternoon.

Achaia

The most popular pilgrimage center is the town of Kalavrita in the Achaia mountains. There are several very famous monasteries in the vicinity, in particular Agia Lavra- the monastery in which the Greek revolution was blessed and the most famous monastery of the Peloponnese - Mega Spileo(Great Cave, as it is called in Russian). The latter is the second oldest of the active Christian monasteries after the monastery of St. Catherine on the Sinai Peninsula. The monastery houses a unique icon by St. Luke, which miraculously survived several fires. In addition, the relics of many saints are collected here, and if you are lucky, you will be able to enter their storage. In the monastery museum you can see a small but very rich collection of books, icons and church utensils, and in the monastery shop nearby you can buy its products: honey, jam, wine, herbs and delicious delight made from walnuts.

Another interesting monastery - Taxiarchon- also located in Achaia near the city of Aegion. Weather permitting, here you can walk to the old monastery, located higher in the mountains on a narrow cornice, from which a stunning view of the valley of the Selinus River opens. Taxiarchon is famous for its rose petal jam, which the monks grow in their fields. But believers come here primarily to worship the great shrine: here is kept a casket with "relics of the Passion of Christ" - a gift from the Byzantine emperor to his brother, the founder of the monastery.

Laconia

Another unique nunnery can be visited in Mystra, a Byzantine ghost town located near Sparta. This is the only part of the city that still has life. The monastery was founded in the 15th century and impresses with its architectural design. The original frescoes have been preserved in the upper galleries of the main temple. Here is a list from the famous icon Panagia Pantanassa stored on Mount Athos. The icon is considered miraculous, which can be immediately seen by the number of thanksgiving gifts left by the believers.

In addition to monasteries, there are several truly unique temples to visit in the Peloponnese.

Argolis

Makes a stunning impression Church of St. George near the town of Didyma in Argolis. Why exactly, I will not tell, so as not to spoil the surprise, be sure to get here if you travel through this part of the Peloponnese

Arcadia

Made the strongest impression on me Church of St. Theodora, located near the village of Vasta in Arcadia (Megalopoli district). This tiny church, built in the 12th century, holds 17 adult plane trees on its roof, which miraculously did not crush it with their weight and did not rotate the walls with their roots.

Achaia

Panagia Katafigion- a church in Achaia, which, like a swallow's nest, nestled right on a cliff with a stunning view of the Gulf of Corinth. A dizzying path carved into the rock leads here, and you can get here from the coast in just 20 minutes.

One of the most visited temples of the Peloponnese, Cathedral St. Andrew, is nevertheless one of the most modern in all of Greece. It was built in Patras specifically to return the relics of Andrew the First-Called, which were transferred to storage during the Ottoman conquest. Now in the cathedral you can bow to the head of the saint and parts of the cross on which he was crucified. When the relics were brought to Russia, a long queue lined up for them, here you can be close in complete solitude.

Laconia

Several unique temples can be visited in Monemvasie, including Hagia Sophia Church and Christ Elkomenos Cathedral built in the 13th century by the emperor Andronnik ΙΙ Palaeologus.

Museums. Which are worth visiting

Personally, I am in favor of visiting any museums. The modest entrance fee supports Greece's unique culture and helps keep people in jobs.

History and archeology

There are excellent museums at all major archaeological sites, in them it is good not only to cool off from the heat, but also to get a more complete picture of the lifestyle, rituals and beliefs of the ancient Greeks and Byzantines. The cost of visiting such museums is included in the cost of visiting the archaeological site itself. The price of a general ticket is usually 12 EUR. Children under 18 years old pass for free if they have a document confirming their age (it makes sense to attend to only if you have a tall and developed teenager).

The most important museum, where you must go without fail - Museum of the archaeological site in Ancient Olympia, if only for the sake of seeing with your own eyes the sculpture of Hermes, the work of the famous ancient Greek sculptor Praxiteles. Another such chance can only be presented to you in the Louvre.

From the municipal (city) archaeological and historical museums, they made a very good impression on me museums of Nafplio, Sparta and Patras... The latter undeservedly misses visitors, despite the fact that it is recognized as the best museum in Europe and keeps a truly unique collection of Roman mosaics. Entrance to such museums is significantly cheaper compared to larger attractions and is usually 2-3 EUR. Children attend them free of charge.

Thematic museums

From museums on other topics, I really liked the modern Museum of Olive Oil in Sparta and Museum of Mani in Gythio... As a rule, such museums are commercial projects, but their pricing policy does not differ from state museums.

Parks

National parks cover a significant area of ​​the Peloponnese, especially in its northern part. Hunting is prohibited in these areas and, as a rule, there are walking and cycling routes. The most interesting of them:

• Mount Helmos and the origins of the Styx- The easiest way to get here is from the village of Zarukhla, where there is a tourist infrastructure. The routes start between the villages of Solo and Messorugi.

• Vouraikos gorge Is one of the most popular hiking and cycling routes connecting Kalavrita and the coast of the Gulf of Corinth.
• Cape Tenaron in the south- the local nature is similar to alien landscape, and the oracle of the dead located here creates a peculiar atmosphere for the place.

• A separate topic is watching birds that stop at lakes and salt lagoons, for example in the area Aliki in Aegion and Prokopiu not far from Patras and also on the Kayafa lake. More than 100 species can be seen depending on the season, including pelicans and flamingos.

• Also, cave systems are classified as national parks, the most interesting of which are - Diros caves in the Mani region in the south of the Peloponnese, Cave of lakes in the mountains of Achaia and Frehti cave in Argolis.

Nearby islands

If you are far away from the mainland, pay attention to the nearest islands connected to the Peloponnese by ferries. For convenience, I will walk clockwise, starting from the Saronic Gulf.

Food. What to try

Many people I have had contact with about Greek cuisine have been disappointed with their experience. There are several reasons for this:

1. They chose the wrong places. You should not rely on quality in tourist establishments with high traffic, as soon as the number of visitors crosses the critical mark, the quality even in good establishments drops significantly. In addition, foreign tourists know little about what the “right taste” should be, so for tourists you can always save on ingredients. So pick where the locals go.
2. They chose the wrong dishes. In order not to wait long, you need to order snacks and ready-made meals, what is called "magerefta" in Greek. This is a roast of different types of meat, vegetable and meat stews. These dishes are prepared for 1–2 days, they are delicious and give a better idea of ​​the local cuisine.
3. They only ate what they had already tasted. The knowledge of many tourists about Greek cuisine ends with Greek salad and moussaka. The latter, by the way, appeared here quite recently. One should not be afraid to try new dishes and ask the owner for advice.
4. They didn't take the season into account. Delicious food is made from delicious ingredients. For example, don't order Greek salad in June or stewed green beans in December. So always check which foods are at their peak during your trip.

The cuisine of the Peloponnese deserves a separate article, because almost every place has its own special dishes that are worth trying right here. Cocoras kokinisto in Kalavrita, roast piglet in Sparta, almond kurabje in Monemvasie - the list is endless.

By the way, if you like to cook yourself, then in almost every large village of the Peloponnese there is a market on Saturdays (laik in Greek), where local farmers bring their crops. You can find out exactly where it takes place from local residents. On ordinary days, it is better to buy vegetables and fruits from greengrocers (manAvikos), fish in fish shops (psaragora, psarAdiko), and meat from a butcher (creopolio). From supermarkets, it is better to choose either small local stores, or chain Galaxias and AB (Alphavita) - here priority is given to Greek products, which are much better in quality than cheaper brands brought from other European countries.

Holidays

Holidays in the Peloponnese are celebrated the same as throughout Greece. But, of course, there are also local events that make travel at this time very attractive.

Summer activities

Summer, especially its second half, is the time of village holidays - "panigiri". These are completely open events to which the communities welcome all guests. They usually take place on weekends and you can find out about them in advance through announcements or by talking with local residents.

In addition, a major religious holiday is celebrated in August - the Dormition of the Virgin. This is an official day off, when you should definitely look into the church, get a blessing and a special bread - prosphora. These days, rams are not spit everywhere, so if you want to try this miracle, do not miss the chance.

Autumn activities

In September, you should definitely take a look at the lunar calendar. On a big full moon all over Greece, and the Peloponnese is no exception, archaeological sites are open all night long, where you can come and admire the moonlit ruins for free.

Panigiris continue in autumn, especially in areas rich in vineyards. It is very interesting to get on a holiday when the whole village brews tsipouro - local grape moonshine - in the central square. The aroma is extraordinary.

Anything to add?

Peloponnese - the charm of ancient Greece

If you look at the Peloponnese from a bird's eye view, then the first thing that catches your eye is the heavenly blue of the sea and the green carpet of forests, with a scattering of amazingly snow-white pearls - villages. The pride of Greece, the Peloponnese peninsula is lovingly washed by the Ionian and Aegean seas, representing, along with the island of Vo, one of the most desirable holiday destinations. Today, tours to the Peloponnese from Moscow are purchased by travelers who are not indifferent to, because there really is something to see on the peninsula. The ancient Greek cities of the Peninsula Patra, Sparta, Argos or Mycenae are real treasures with historical monuments, sometimes lost in ruins.

Rest in the Peloponnese is a journey into the ancient ancient world of Greece, which has practically not changed in our time. Many local residents, not wanting to succumb to the influence of civilization, lead their usual way of life, which does not differ much from the way of life of their ancestors. Nevertheless, they are convinced about the rest in the Peloponnese that the infrastructure there is well developed. Travelers do not have to live in fishing huts and eat food cooked over a fire, of course. Quite comfortable, restaurants, bars and cafes are all created for tourists.

In addition, everyone can book excursion tours throughout the peninsula, the list of attractions of which will impress even experienced travelers. The famous ancient amphitheater evokes among tourists with amazing acoustics, temples and ancient antique statues of Olympia - greatness. The city of Mycenae will present to the attention of tourists the famous "lion's gate", and Mistre will surprise you with an old castle and Byzantine churches. Also noteworthy is the Fratsi Cave, hidden in the fishing village of Kilada and the huge Rion Bridge, thanks to which trips to the mainland become possible.

Holidays in the Peloponnese: entertainment

Tourists who have chosen to rest on the peninsula in the summer will not regret their decision. It was at this time that the theatrical season opens - the famous plays performed by Greek theater troupes surprisingly return to the past, to Greece, where Aeschylus and Sophocles, Euripides and Aristophanes worked on new masterpieces.In addition to cultural program active rest is also thought out for tourists. Water sports, tennis, volleyball, cycling in the surrounding area and skiing in famous greek ski resort Kalavrita - you won't be bored, that's for sure. In addition, tourists who are not used to limiting themselves will enjoy traveling to a nearby

Peninsula Peloponnese (Πελοπόννησος) is an administrative region of Greece. Peloponnese translated from Greek means "the island of Pelops". The island got its name in honor of the grandson of Zeus, who became famous for the establishment of the Olympic Games in Greece.

A unique rich history, an abundance of delightful historical monuments and ancient ruins, a wonderful climate, an enchanting blue sea, incredible greenery of dense pine forests and olive groves, picturesque villages, delicious local cuisine, amazing beauty and tranquility - this is literally "in a nutshell" about amazing places Peloponnese.

The first settlements in the Peloponnese appeared around 100,000 BC. NS. This delightful peninsula is home to the mythical ancient Greek hero Hercules. These lands were ruled by the most powerful ruler - the legendary king Agamemnon, who led the troops of Greece during the famous Trojan War. This is the birthplace of the courageous Spartan king Leonidas. Every corner of this amazing mythical land of the island reminds of incredible myths Ancient Greece.

The Peloponnese peninsula is divided into 7 regions. 5 of them - Corinthia (Κορινθία), Messinia (Μεσσηνία), Laconia (Λακωνία), Arcadia (Αρκαδία) and Argolis (Αργολίδα) - located in the administrative region of the Peloponnese, and 2 regions - Achaia (Αχαΐα) and Elis (Ήλις) - belong to Western Greece.

Capital of the Peloponnese - Tripoli (Τρίπολη) ... The area of ​​the peninsula is 15 490 sq. Km.

Geographical location and relief

The magnificent peninsula stretches in the south of the mainland of sunny Greece. The east coast of the Peloponnese is washed by Aegean Sea, and the west - by waters Ionian Sea... In the north, the region is bordered by the periphery of Western Greece, and in the northeast - with the administrative region of Attica.

The peninsula is connected to the mainland by the 6-kilometer Isthmus of Corinth. In prehistoric times, the Peloponnese was an island, however, due to tectonic changes, it was connected to the mainland of Greece by a narrow Isthmus of Corinth, which was later dug by a canal.

The peninsula is distinguished by a unique mountain landscape. Majestic mountain ranges and gorges alternate beautifully with picturesque fertile valleys lined with olive trees on the slopes of the mountains. On the charming peninsula, one can see impregnable rocks, dense pine forests, and beautiful mountain lakes, and rivers, and beautiful sandy beaches.

The highest mountain of the peninsula is Taygetus (2407 m). The mountains are crossed by fast-flowing rivers: Alfios, Evrotas and Pinlos. The magnificent valleys of Argolis and Messinia are among the most fertile in the country.

Climate

The climate along the beautiful coastline is of the Mediterranean type, while the climate in the center of the Peloponnese is of the continental type. Summers are often hot and dry here, freshened by seasonal trade winds, and winters are rather mild. The island has a large number of sunny days a year. The swimming season lasts from mid-May to mid-October. In summer, the water in the seas warms up to +22 ... + 26 ° С. The air temperature in summer is +30 .. + 37 ° С.

Population

The Peloponnese peninsula has 650 310 inhabitants. Mostly Greeks live on the peninsula.

Peloponnese beach resorts

The charming peninsula is ideal for a quiet, family holiday. At the service of vacationers there are excellent opportunities for unforgettable walking and cycling trips. The peninsula has many incredible attractions, numerous sandy and sandy-pebble picturesque beaches, most of which are Blue Flag holders. Various water sports are very popular in the Peloponnese.

Corinthia (Κορινθία)

It is the second most populous on the peninsula. County capital - city Corinth ... Not far from the capital is the famous Corinth Canal, which provides shortest way between the Aegean and Ionian seas.

Corinth has beautiful promenades and magnificent beaches. The city is famous for its many cafes, bars, restaurants and clubs. A splendid theater festival is held here in September and October.

In the suburbs of Corinth in the Bay of Corinth there is Kalamia beach , part of which is sandy, and part is pebbly. The beach is 1 km long and 10 meters wide. Kalamia is a city beach, but cars are not visible or audible here, since car traffic is prohibited in the vicinity of the beach. Kalamia Beach has a Blue Flag. The cleanest water, beautiful beach, cafes, taverns, restaurants, night discos and concerts ... This is a wonderful place for youth recreation.

Popular resort cities include Xylokastro ... The best beaches of Corinthia are concentrated here. Xylokastru has a variety of activities aquatic species sports. Aristonouton and Pefkias, two well-maintained urban beaches, are Blue Flag holders.

The resort town is located at the foot of Mount Gerania Loutraki ... The city is known for its stunning hot springs and Roman baths. The magnificent city beach stretches along the picturesque coastline for 2 km, the width of which is 20 meters. The most beautiful cypress and lemon groves surround the wonderful pebble beach. On the beach, you can rent pedal boats, boats and canoes.

Argolis (Αργολίδα)

The region is located in the northeast of the peninsula. The capital of the nome is a city Nafplio ... One of the most romantic cities in Greece is set against the backdrop of a beautiful landscape at the foot of a rocky peninsula, towering over the vastness of the picturesque Argolic Gulf.

Opposite the ancient fortress Akronafplia there is a cozy small pebble beach, Arvantia ... 2 kilometers from the center, near the fortress of Palamidi, there is a beautiful sand beach Carathon .

There is a popular sandy beach 11 km from Nafplio Tolo famous for the cleanest water in Argolis. Along the entire beach there are apartments, shops, cafes, taverns.

On the southeastern side of the peninsula, near the town of Ermioni, there is an excellent rocky Ermioni beach washed by incredibly clear clear water. This is one of the most beautiful coastal areas.

Messinia (Μεσσηνία)

This is the southwestern tip of the Peloponnese. This is the most delightful corner of Greece - a charming quiet province surrounded by beautiful olive groves and magnificent flowering gardens. The eastern part of Messinia is rocky, while the western is more gentle, enchanting with wonderful sandy beaches and quaint small fishermen villages along the picturesque coast of the Ionian Sea and the Gulf of Messinia. The capital of Messinia - Kalamata - is located in a deep bay of the Messinian Gulf. The town of Kalamata has a large pier and charming long sandy beaches.

Laconia (Λακωνία)

The southernmost part of mainland Greece with incredible rich history and amazing landscapes. The capital of Laconia is the famous Sparta. On the territory of Laconia there are 2 large mountain ranges: Taygetus and Parnon, between which flows the main river of the region - Evrot.

On the island of Elafonissos there is one of the best beaches in Greece - Simos Beach, which is about a kilometer long. This is a gorgeous crowded beach with amazing sand dunes and clear waters. The beach has a well-equipped camping site, a beach bar and a restaurant.

Arcadia (Αρκαδία)

The central region of the Peloponnese is the "heart" of the Peloponnese, this is its most central region. The inhabitants of Arcadia are considered the most ancient inhabitants of the peninsula. The capital of the most beautiful region of Arcadia - Tripoli ... High cliffs covered with forests, unusual villages, amazing monasteries, a small stretch of the sea with beautiful sandy beaches of Paralio Astros, Livadi, Tiro and Sampatika ... Unique Arcadia has a rich range of interesting sights and unforgettable impressions.

Near port city Astros is a resort town Paralio Astros ... The city's sandy beach is surrounded by magnificent shady gardens and taverns. A sailing school has been opened here.

On the northern coast of the peninsula, there are resorts focused on family vacations with children. On south coast The Peloponnese is home to picturesque semi-desert beaches. In the southeast of the peninsula, which is especially appreciated by connoisseurs, there are also beautiful lakes. The central highland regions of the Peloponnese are located romantic getaway in tents.

sights

The Peloponnese is the birthplace and development of the civilization of Ancient Greece. The amazing peninsula has many historical sights that have preserved traces of many civilizations. On this land were built majestic Roman and Greek temples and churches, unique Byzantine fortresses, delightful Venetian palaces and chapels, excellent theaters and Turkic settlements, Turkish mosques and baths ...

One of the most significant archaeological sites in Greece - Epidavros (VI century BC) - an ancient Greek port and resort town with legendary history... The Ancient Theater (4th century BC) is one of the most delightful attractions in Greece. The unique theater is a two-story stage with an amphitheater-like auditorium, almost untouched by time. The theater is famous for its amazing acoustics. Until now, every summer in the Antique Theater there are magnificent festivals of ancient drama, in the repertoire of which there are wonderful comedies by Aristophanes and the tragedies of Aeschylus, Sophocles, Euripides.

The most important historical monument on the island - ancient city-fortress Mycenae (Μυκήνες) ... Settlements on the Mycenaean Hill appeared from the beginning of the III millennium. The ancient ruins are located 32 kilometers from the Gulf of Argolicos, near the small modern village of Mycenae. Among the ruins of ancient Mycenae are the Lion's Gate, which borders the entrance to the tomb - the unique treasury of King Agamemnon (1250 BC). This is an extraordinary underground domed room that was built without the use of masonry mortar. Many interesting myths of Ancient Greece are associated with Mycenae.

Amazing Corinth canal - one of the famous sights of Greece. A narrow canal gorge was dug in a 6-kilometer isthmus virtually without the help of technical means, and the canal was opened in July 1893. This channel enables ships to pass from Italy to the Aegean Sea without skirting the Peloponnese. Initially, the idea to dig the canal belonged to the emperor Nero, but the construction started was not completed. Only in 1893 was the famous Corinth Canal discovered (length 6434 m, width 23 m, depth 8 m), thanks to which ships could arrive directly to Piraeus. This canal is still used today, but not as often as before, since large-tonnage vessels cannot pass through the canal.

In the south of the Peloponnese, in the valley of the Evrotas River, there was one of the main Greek city-states. Sparta (Σπάρτη) glorified by his warriors. In 1834 the modern city of Sparta was founded. The main attractions in the vicinity of modern Sparta include the ruins of Ancient Sparta. Some fragments of ancient buildings (VII century BC - II century AD) have survived to this day: the majestic Acropolis with the Temple of Athena (VI century BC), magnificent temples (VII-V centuries BC), theater (I-II centuries AD).

Byzantine ghost town Mystras located a few kilometers from the legendary Sparta, on the slope of the mysterious Taygetus. The city of Mystras has preserved a medieval castle and seven Byzantine churches with amazing frescoes.

In the northeast of the Peloponnese, 1.5 km from the Gulf of Argolic, on a low rocky hill stands a prehistoric fortified city in Greece - Tiryns ... The city is halfway between Greek cities Nafplio and Argos. First of all, the grandiose fortifications and the preserved remains of the magnificent palace of the Crete-Mycenaean era are of interest.

The Peloponnese is not only a commitment to tradition, an incredible concentration of cultural attractions, but also a place of varied entertainment for every taste. The necessary conditions for an unforgettable vacation have been created on the picturesque Greek peninsula.

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The Peloponnese is well known as one of the greenest and most unspoilt regions in Greece. This peninsula is ideal for enjoying a carefree holiday on immaculate beaches. Local resorts, although they cannot boast of a wide hotel base, for which, for example, Crete is famous, but the possibilities of the Peloponnese do not diminish from this.

Porto Heli

The coast of the Porto Heli resort is literally divided into bays - windless and safe places for a relaxing stay. The beaches are sandy, which can also be reached by sea. The most picturesque beaches are to be found outside the main harbor of the resort. Here, clear water attracts both swimmers and those who prefer to spend time scuba diving.

Porto Heli hotels try to offer all the variety of entertainment: medical services, baths, sport equipment... In Greece, Porto Heli is known as the best yachting resort. One has only to go out to sea, and the calm waters of the harbor give way to raging waves.

Costa Navarino

Renowned as a resort for relaxation and comfort, Costa Navarino is nestled amidst unspoiled landscapes. This is where to go for spa therapy in luxury hotels that offer dozens of activities and quality service.

Several years ago, Navarino did not exist yet; now there are high-class hotels here. What makes tourists pay a lot of money? First of all, the beaches - they became the main wealth of the resort, thanks to which the tourist potential of this area was finally noticed.

The entire coast of Navarino is ideal without exaggeration, so it seems that there is nothing in the world besides this magnificent nature, the azure sea and the coast. However, it is worth going outside the Costa Navarino. After all, the main magnet for tourists throughout the Peloponnese, the Voidokilia Bay, is located nearby. Its shape, which is associated with the letter "omega", has already become recognizable, and the purest water and soft sand are the reason for the extraordinary popularity of Voidokilia.

Kyllini

The more popular and accessible is Kyllini - a resort known for unique nature and a long beach. The village is characterized by a leisurely life, and the surrounding pastures and stone houses give the feeling of authentic Greece. Kyllini is famous for its mud and hot springs. The latter are located in a eucalyptus grove, and tourists can combine procedures with viewing the ancient baths and the amphitheater. As for the Kyllini beach, it successfully adjoins the port - from it you can go to Zakynthos or Kefalonia. But for a holiday in Kyllini itself, this well-groomed coastline will be more than a good choice. There are numerous taverns nearby with a traditional menu.

Skafidya

The small village of Skafidia is surrounded by low mountains and fertile valleys, which is why you can enjoy inexpensive locally produced fruits and olives here. Families with children and those who are tired of noise will surely enjoy Skafidia: its coast is washed by clean waters, and the beach is well-groomed. Despite the obvious beauty of these places, in the village and its surroundings there are not only expensive hotel complexes, but also quite budget mini-hotels.

Loutraki

The desire to improve health in Loutraki is the reason why many travel to the Peloponnese. The resort is famous for its healing waters, which still provide the city with a steady flow of tourists, and rest surrounded by forests and healthy air will consolidate the effect of hydrotherapy. The city beach is covered with large pebbles, but Loutraki is often awarded international awards for the purity of its waters. Loutraki does not lose popularity until the velvet autumn, being considered the main Greek health resort. However, in winter, those who want to undergo treatment in his resort complexes and visiting the ancient sights, located very close, does not diminish.

Peloponnesian Peninsula: attractions (photos)

This picturesque peninsula is located in the south of Greece. It attracts travelers from all over the world not only with a magnificent beach holiday surrounded by unusually beautiful nature, but also with a unique opportunity to see with their own eyes Amazing places where ancient Greek civilization was born. The legendary Sparta was located here. The Peloponnesian peninsula carefully preserves one of the centers of the Mycenaean culture, which is known throughout the world for the tombs of the kings.

From the history of the peninsula

The name of the peninsula was first mentioned in Greek literature in the 7th century BC. In those days, the Peloponnesian peninsula belonged to the royal family of the Atrids. The name was given to him in honor of the founder of the dynasty - Pelop. The history of the peninsula is inextricably linked with the history of the country.

This land is covered with numerous legends and myths. Locals we are sure that it was here that the son of Zeus, Hercules, saw the light. King Agamemnon ruled on these lands, who led the troops of the Achaeans to the Trojan War.

The Peloponnesian Peninsula is the birthplace of the king of Sparta, Leonidas, who in 480 BC. NS. accomplished a feat. Leading 300 Spartans, he was able to delay the huge army of the Persians. The more ancient history of the Peloponnese is associated with Mount Lyceum. According to existing myths, here the black earth created the godlike man Pelazg, here for the first time a sacrifice was made to Zeus.

Human activity in this area was noted during the Mycenaean period. V-IV centuries BC NS. characterized by constant rivalry between two powerful cities - Sparta and Athens.

It ended only after the Peloponnesian Wars, which bled and drained these cultural centers ancient power.

At the end of the 4th century BC. BC, when Alexander the Great came to power, the Peloponnesian peninsula lost its independence and became part of the empire of the legendary Macedonian. In the II century BC. NS. The Peloponnese was captured by Roman legionaries.

After the Roman Empire was divided into Eastern and Western, the peninsula for a long time passed to the Byzantine Empire. Then it was captured by the Franks, and a little later (in 1453) by the Turks.

An active struggle for the independence of this geographical site began in 1821. During this period, the Peloponnese was able to free itself from the Turks. The decisive Battle of Navarino took place near its shores, during which the Turkish fleet was defeated by Russian sailors.

Where is the Peloponnesian Peninsula?

Peloponnese is the southern tip Balkan Peninsula, connected to it by the Isthmus of Corinth. The total area of ​​the peninsula is 22,200 square kilometers, washed by two seas: the Ionian and the Aegean.

The Peloponnesian peninsula (you see the photo in our article) is distinguished by a mountainous landscape. The highest mountain is Taygetus (2407 m).

Climatic features

It should be noted that the climate on the peninsula is milder than on the territory of mainland Greece. The climate along the coast is considered to be Mediterranean, while in the center of this area it is continental. In summer, the air temperature warms up to +30 degrees on average, in winter it does not drop below +15 degrees.

Peloponnesian Peninsula: attractions. Corinth

Today it is a world famous Archaeological complex located on a narrow isthmus that connects the Corinthian and Saronic gulfs. In ancient times, the city was a busy port of two seas. All trade between east and west of Greece passed through it. It was a thriving city. From the beginning of the VIII century BC. NS. he already had his own military and merchant fleet. But he could not stand the rivalry with Athens and gradually lost his power.
In 44 BC. NS. Caesar re-established Corinth as a Roman colony. Archaeological excavations carried out on this land make it possible to estimate the enormous size of the ancient city. Most of the surviving buildings date back to Roman times, but some elements of more ancient structures have survived.

The Lecheyon road, paved with marble, connected the port of the same name with the city and ended with a staircase with magnificent propylaea, which miraculously survived to this day.

Argos

In the northwest of the peninsula there is another ancient city - Argos. He was famous for his military power. Today, it is the starting point for those heading to Nafplio, a city honored to become the first capital of the free state of Greece. Nearby is Epidaurus, which hosts the annual Epidaurus Festival in summer. Here tourists can appreciate the incredibly powerful acoustics of this ancient theater.

Ancient Olympia

This legendary city is located in the northwest of the peninsula, where the rivers Alfios and Kladeos meet, at the Kronos hill. For several millennia, this place was the sanctuary of Zeus, as well as the Olympic stadium. Today, ancient Olympia is the most valuable archaeological complex, an open-air monument, which is under the protection of UNESCO. Here tourists have a unique opportunity to study the history of the formation of the Olympic movement from the moment of its foundation, to see the ancient stadium and the foundations of the olympionic sculptures, lost, unfortunately, on which the names of the heroes of the Games are inscribed. Anyone can visit the pritaneion, the ruins of the palaestra, the Roman baths and gymnasiums.

Now in the center of the complex is being restored the Doric temple of Zeus, erected around 456 BC. NS.

Temple of Hera

Olympia is a must-see for the oldest of all Dorian Greek temples. We are talking about the Temple of Hera. Its construction dates back to 600 BC. NS. There is a version that the inhabitants of Elis gave it to the Olympians. Only the base of the building and the elements of the lower part of the columns have survived to this day.

In ancient times, the Temple of Hera was decorated with a statue of Hermes Praxiteles, which can now be seen in the archaeological museum of Olympia. Opposite the structure was an altar for sacrifices dedicated to Zeus. Today, this place is famous primarily for the fact that the Olympic flame is lit here. At the beginning of the 4th century, the Temple of Hera was destroyed by a powerful earthquake.

Holidays on the peninsula

The Greeks themselves are very fond of the picturesque Peloponnesian Peninsula. Rest here helps residents of noisy cities to relax. By railroad from bustling Athens, you can get here in a few hours.

On the peninsula, each house is a small ethnographic museum, and the village tavern will help satisfy hunger and delight the true gourmet. Golden beaches, crystal clear air, bright turquoise sea and, of course, real Greek hospitality!

In the Peloponnese, almost all beaches are either sandy or have small interspersed with small pebbles. Tourists traveling with children are advised to pay attention to the northern coast of the regions of Corinthia and Achaea. There are resorts that are perfect for families. People who prefer picturesque deserted beaches will be able to relax on the southern coast.

In Corinthia, tourists enjoy spending time on the city beaches of Xylokastro or Loutraki. Lovers of pebble recreation areas head to Sikew. Local beaches have received the Blue Flag for the cleanliness of the waters and coastal areas. And I must say, quite deservedly. In Argolis, the beaches of Plepi, Tolo and Porto Heli, which have a sandy cover, are very popular. Archangelos in Laconia is also the owner of the Blue Flag. It is generally recognized as the second most popular on the peninsula.

One of the most picturesque areas of the Peloponnese is Messinia. The beaches on the Costa Navarino impress with the beauty of the Voidokoilia bay. And the city beach of Kalamata, the capital of this region, is very close to the city center. Nevertheless, you will not feel the proximity of the settlement - the nature is so magnificent here.

Where to stay?

The number of hotels in the Peloponnese is less than in many other resorts in Greece. Nevertheless, their choice is huge, so it will not be difficult for you to find exactly the hotel in which you dreamed of spending your vacation.

If you decide to visit the Peloponnesian Peninsula, you can choose hotels of different levels of comfort and, of course, at different prices - from modest rooms in a 1 * hotel to luxury apartments in a 5-star hotel. Below we will briefly dwell on the most popular establishments.

Kasimis hotel 1 *

Located in the city of Kyparisia. Suitable for both business and leisure travelers. There are single and double rooms equipped with air conditioning, TV, Internet access. For guests there is free parking, laundry.

Ionion hotel 2 *

Another hotel located in the city of Kyparisia. Double rooms are served 24 hours a day. There is a minibar, air conditioning, and wireless Internet access. Breakfast is served in your room.

Inomaos hotel 3 *

This comfortable hotel is in the center of ancient Olympia, 700 meters from the museum and archaeological sites. The hotel offers 25 rooms (single, double, triple and twin rooms).

Nafplia Palace 5 hotel *

Exclusive hotel located in the ancient fortress Akronafplia, 140 kilometers from Athens. Guests are offered spacious rooms in the main hotel building and magnificent bungalows (some of which have their own pools). The rooms are decorated with natural stone and wood-paneled ceilings. The windows offer stunning views of the sea and the islet-fortress Burtzi. Nafplia Palace is a gourmet destination. The hotel's restaurants will surprise you with exquisite dishes of national, Polynesian, Mediterranean and Japanese cuisine.

How to get there?

So, you have decided to visit the Peloponnesian Peninsula while on vacation. How to get here? This is not difficult to do. You should take a flight via Athens. V holiday season the airports of Tripoli, Araxos and Kalamata accept numerous charters from all over Europe. In addition, the peninsula is connected with the mainland by magnificent modern routes, sea communication with various ports of Greece is developed.

Rest on the Peloponnesian Peninsula is a great opportunity not only to lie on the well-groomed beaches, but also to learn a lot from the history of this hospitable country.

Source: fb.ru

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Description of resorts, hotels and impressions of the Peloponnese in Greece.

Peloponnese Island, Southern Greece

Southern greece

Also, see hotels in the Peloponnese and other hotels in Greece.

In the Peloponnese, you can actually study the entire history of ancient Greece.

Mycenae is the center of one of the most ancient civilizations on the planet. The ruins of the palace with the famous Lion Gate are visited by millions of tourists every year.

Sparta, the oldest city-state, was known for its harsh laws and was a symbol of fortitude. The feat of 300 Spartans, who held the onslaught of the armies of many thousands of Persians in the 5th century, is known. BC NS.

Olympia is the birthplace of the Olympic Games. The ancient stadium is still a place for lighting the Olympic flame and a pilgrimage for tourists.

Corinth is an important ancient city. One of the three classical orders in Greece that adorned the columns of many monuments is the Corinthian one.

Epivdavr is the oldest theater in the city, operating to this day, has a unique acoustics: the ringing of a coin thrown in the center of the theater is clearly audible in the last rows, which is no less than 60 meters.

Probably the most interesting excursions in mainland Greece are held in the Peloponnese.

Peloponnese today

The peninsula resembles a sycamore leaf and is the southernmost region of mainland Greece, washed by the Ionian Sea to the west and the Saronic Gulf to the east. Once the Peloponnese was an island, but geological processes twice separated and connected it to the mainland, forming an isthmus. In the 19th century, on this strip of land, the Corinth Canal was dug - a grandiose man-made structure, for the third time (already artificially) turned the Peloponnese into an island.

In the central part of the peninsula there is an extensive mountain range from the very high point- the city of Taygetus. The mountains are crossed by fast-flowing rivers: Alfios, Evrotas and Pinlos. The valleys of Elis, Argolis, Messinia are considered the most fertile in Greece. The climate in the Peloponnese is Mediterranean. Mild winters alternate with hot summers, which are refreshing with seasonal trade winds.

A characteristic feature of the climate is a large number of sunny days a year.

The population of the Peloponnese is traditionally engaged in agriculture, animal husbandry, and fishing.

The western part of the peninsula is especially picturesque.

The most luxurious sandy beaches in the Mediterranean are washed on one side by the turquoise waters of the Ionian Sea, and on the other, bordered by greenery of olive, oak, pine groves and orange orchards. Here, in the western part of the peninsula, is the region of Elis. It owes its name to the ancient sacred city of Ilia, and the word “Ilis” (from the ancient Greek falis, meaning valley) fully corresponds to the geographical characteristics of the region: fertile plains, overgrown with gardens, extend right to the shores of the sea. According to the testimony of the ancient historian and geographer Strabo, in antiquity, as today, there were many large villages and settlements in this area.

The Peloponnese still retains its identity: the absence of industrial enterprises, secluded mountain villages, pastures, old Byzantine towns and a pastoral landscape give it a special charm. Magnificent waterfalls hidden from the eyes, boundless expanses of water, deep gorges amaze with their beauty.

The Peloponnese resorts have not yet been spoiled by mass tourism, only in recent years new luxury resorts Spa-complexes and club-type hotels have been built here. The development of this region in our time is associated with the tourism business: the construction of high-class hotels, landscaping and the creation of beaches that meet European standards, etc.

Entertainment in the Peloponnese

In the Peloponnese, many guided tours of ancient Greece are organized. The ancient theater of Epidaurus hosts a theater festival every year. The summer season program includes performances of masterpieces of ancient Greek drama performed by the best Greek and international theatrical troupes and, as it were, brings the works of Euripides, Aeschylus, Aristrophanes and Sophocles back to life.

On the Isthmus of Corinth (the 23rd km of the old highway Athens-Corinth), 150 meters from the Corinth Canal, there is a water park (several water slides - including 3 for children, a bar, a restaurant with a buffet, a doctor's office, parking, etc. etc.), where both children and adults can have a wonderful and happy rest.

There are many taverns, restaurants, bars, cafes and pastry shops on the peninsula. Delicious food, a cozy home atmosphere, a warm, friendly atmosphere prevailing here are conducive to communication and allow you to feel relaxed and free. The nightlife is fun and varied: discos where you can dance until the morning, unique Greek bouzouki, cinemas, etc.

Sport

The Peloponnese has everything, including the possibility of practicing various sports. Here you can organize rafting, jeep safari, horse riding, walks to the waterfalls, mountain tourism... At the service of lovers of active recreation, there are always water sports services (diving center in Aheya), ping-pong, tennis, beach volleyball, basketball, cycling. Kalavrita has the second largest ski center Greece. The beaches and coasts of Messinia are quite suitable for water sports, and above all windsurfing and sailing. Windsurf can be rented on the beaches of Kalamata, Kyparissia, Methoni and Finikunda, and you can learn about sailing at the Kalamata Maritime Club. For basketball and volleyball fans - the stadiums of Kalamata and Messini, swimming - the Kalamata pool.

Beaches

The beaches in the Peloponnese are sandy, or sandy with small interspersed with small pebbles, or pebble. They are found in almost all areas of the peninsula. There are usually cafes, bars, taverns and shops along the beaches. Many beaches have been awarded a blue flag, which means they are in perfect condition. Vacationers in Corinthia can choose the city beaches of Loutraki and Xylokastro, as well as the blue flag awarded pebble beach of Sykia; in Argolis - the sandy beaches of Tolo, Plepi, Porto Heli or the pebbly Palea Epidavros, Ermioni, Arvanitia; in Laconia - Archangelos (owner of the blue flag) and Simos on the small island of Elafonisos; in Elis - the sandy beaches marked with the blue flag Kuruta, Khrisi Akti, Zakharo; in Aheia - three pebble beaches of the town of Simpolitia and the sandy beach of Kalogria, all blue flag holders; in Arcadia - Lako, Pralia, Astros and Tigani.

The beaches of Messinia

The amazing beaches of Messinia stretch along the Gulf of Messinia and the Ionian Sea. Most of them are marked with EU blue flags. This is, for example, the city beach of Kalamata, made of small pebbles, 2.5 km long, which is a short walk from the city center, or the Mikri Mantinia beach with excellent restaurants right next to the water. The Kardamili resort has several good beaches for every taste (sand and pebble, large pebbles, picturesque rocky beach), where you can do water sports or sunbathe alone.

On east coast Mesinia Gulf, only 38 km. from Kalamata, located a small and calm resort The stupa has three beaches. The largest and most equipped of them is a magnificent sandy beach, one of the best in Messinia, ideal for families. There are sandy and small rocky beaches nearby. To the west of Kalamata lies the city of Messinia, in the vicinity of which there are many long beaches of golden sand (some of which have also been awarded the EU blue flag).

The sandy beach of Petalidi is located in the eponymous resort town 26 km.

west of Kalamata. The beach is suitable for a relaxing holiday.

On west coast Gulf of Messinia, in the small town of Koroni, is a small calm beach, and a little further along the coast lies the beautiful fishing village of Finikunda with an amazingly clean coastline, sandy beaches and dense green trees. In recent years, it has become famous place recreation that gathers windsurfing fans. Not far from here is a magnificent, very long sandy beach, ideal for families. There are 2 beaches in Metoni: one is sandy, stretching for 4 km., The second is pebbly, with equipment for practicing water sports.

Pylos also has some excellent sandy beaches. Over the past 30 years, this city has gradually gained more and more popularity as a seaside resort... Not far from the sea resort of Kiparissia, there is a sandy beach with a length of 250 km and a width of 30-40 meters, awarded a blue flag.

Peloponnese landmarks

Archaeological sites of the ancient and Roman periods.

Argolis

Ancient Epidaurus. East of Nafplion. Mycenaean city

Ancient Tiryns. North of Nafplio. An ancient Greek city, one of the centers of the Mycenaean culture that has existed since the Bronze Age.

Ancient Mycenae. North of Nafplio. One of the centers of Greek civilization.

The ancient city of Argos. North of Nafplio. The main attraction is one of the most famous sanctuaries of the goddess Hera in Ancient Greece.

Ancient Lerna. West of Nafplion. The All-Greek Games, analogs of the Olympic Games, were held here.

Corinthia

Antique Corinth. One of the most significant ancient Greek cities in the northern part of the Peloponnese.

Messinia

Palace of Nestor. 13th century BC. Hora Trifillias 48 km. west of Kalamata. An important monument of Mycenaean culture is the palace of Tsar Nestor, the hero of the Iliad and Odyssey, a participant in the Trojan War.

In the cities and towns of Messinia (Cyparissia, ancient Messinia, Kardamila, Metoni, Petalidi, Finikunda), traces of numerous monuments of the ancient, as well as the Byzantine and medieval periods have been preserved. (see the text of the "Messinia" section)

Coroni. 50 km southwest of Kalamata. Venetian fortress 13th century with the monastery of St. John.

Filiatra. 83 km. northwest of Kalamatra. In ancient Christiani, the Byzantine Church of the Transfiguration of Christ the Savior has been preserved.

Elis

Ancient Olympia. East of Pyrgos. The Olympic Games were born here

Kyllini. This region has been inhabited since antiquity - since the Paleolithic era, during the era of Classicism, Hellenism and the Roman Empire. Here are the ruins of the ancient harbor and city, as well as Roman baths. Since ancient times, the city of Kyllini has been known as a hydropathic center with sulfur springs, where the ancient Greeks and Romans were treated. Now it is a resort in the shade of eucalyptus and pine trees, which helps with bronchitis and skin diseases.

Argolis

Fortress Palamidi. Late 17th - early 18th centuries City of Nafplio. A magnificent building from the Venetian era. It is currently a museum.

Akronafplion. city ​​of Nafplio. Byzantine fortress 12th century

Venetian castle 15th century islet of Agii Theodori at the entrance to the bay.

Laconia

Mystras. West of Sparta. One of the most important cultural and political centers, later the Byzantine Empire.

Monemvasia. South of Sparta, on the coast. Preserved magnificent monuments of Byzantine architecture, the building of the Venetian Renaissance of the 15th century, the Cathedral of Hagia Sophia, built in the 12th century.

Sparta. In the south of the Peloponnese Peninsula is an ancient city-state.

Peloponnese Accommodation

Please note: Dream Travel tour operator offers its clients excellent conditions for recreation in one of the most wonderful regions of Greece - the Peloponnese!

Contact us! Call: 38 044 502-3002 (04) in Kiev or 38 0312 66-16-16 in Uzhgorod.

Tour to Greece: Peloponnese; Niforeika Beach 3 * super-price great hotel! half board few places

Transport: air from Kiev (we will organize a transfer)

Accommodation: hotel 3 * Niforeika Beach 3 *

Nutrition: HB (half board)

Departure dates: 12.06.2018, 15.06.2018, 21.06.2018, 25.06.2018, 29.06.2018, 01.07.2018, 09.07.2018, 12.07.2018, 19.07.2018, 22.07.2018, 28.07.2018, 03.08.2018 , 08/13/2018, 08/23/2018, 08/29/2018, 09/01/2018, 09/13/2018, 09/29/2018, 10/01/2018 and other departure dates

vacation at sea(tour for everyone)

Tour note: Niforeika Beach Hotel & Bungalows is a new complex, built in 1991 on the coast of the Patras current. The hotel is open from May to October and offers comfortable rooms, professional service, plenty of entertainment and a welcoming atmosphere.

Contact: in this direction: 375 29 644 94 50 (Viber), 375 33 364 94 50
Where to buy a tour: travel agency Jackfruit(Minsk)
Address: Pobediteley Avenue, 11-1121
Tel .: + 375-29-644-94-50 (Velcom) + 375-33-364-94-50, online selection: www.jackfruit.by
Working hours: Mon-Fri 10: 00-19: 00, Sat 11: 00-16: 00, Sun - day off

The word peloponnese

The word peloponnese in english letters (transliteration) - peloponnes

The word Peloponnese consists of 10 letters:

The meanings of the word peloponnese. What is the Peloponnese?

Peloponnese

Peloponnese Peloponnese Sea I, peninsula in the south of Greece. The name Peloponnes has been mentioned since the 2nd millennium BC. NS.; etymology is unclear. On a mythological basis, it is explained as "the island of Pelops" ...

Geographical encyclopedia

Peloponnese (Greek island of Pelops), since the Middle Ages it was also called Morea; a peninsula connected with the mainland by the Isthmian isthmus. In P. there are many alpine regions (mountains up to 2,400 m) and fertile valleys.

dictionary_of_ancient.academic.ru

Peloponnese. Morea - peninsula, tied up. with the mainland Isthmian isthmus. There are many alpine regions in P. (mountains up to 2400 m high) and fertile valleys. Antich. region P .: in the north - Achaia, Sikion, Corinth, in the north - east. - Argos, in the south-east - Laconic ...

drevniy_mir.academic.ru

The Peloponnese (Greek Πελοπόννησος, IPA: the medieval name of Morea) is the southern peninsula of the Balkan Peninsula, connected to it by the Isthmus of Corinth. The Peloponnese is also called the periphery (administrative region) of Greece ...

ru.wikipedia.org

Peloponnese (Peloponnesos), a peninsula in Greece, the southern part of the Balkan Peninsula. It is connected to the mainland by the Isthmus of Corinth, cut by the Corinth Canal. The area is 21.5 thousand km².

TSB. - 1969-1978

Peloponnese (Peloponnesos), now Morea, large southern. the peninsula of the Balkan Peninsula, connected to it by the Isthmus of Corinth. 22200 sq. km., coastline 1100 km.; is currently part of the cor.

Brockhaus and Efron. - 1907-1909

Peloponnese (fema)

Fema Peloponnese (Greek θέμα Πελοποννήσου) is a Byzantine fema (administrative and legal entity) located on the territory of the peninsula of the same name in southern Greece. Thema was founded around 800 with its center in Corinth.

ru.wikipedia.org

Peloponnese (Borough)

The Peloponnese (Greek Περιφέρεια Πελοποννήσου) is an administrative region (periphery) in the south of the Republic of Greece. The province occupies most of the Peloponnese peninsula, with the exception of the northwestern regions of Achaea and Elis ...

ru.wikipedia.org

Peloponnese

Peloponnese (Morea), a peninsula in Greece, the southern tip of the Balkan Peninsula; connected to Central Greece by the Isthmus of Corinth, cut through by the Corinth Canal.

Geographical encyclopedia

Peloponnesos (Peloponnesos, Middle-century name Morea), a peninsula in the south. h. Balkan Peninsula, connected to its main. h. Isthmus of Corinth (Greece). Pl. 21.5 thousand km². The coast is heavily indented, especially in the south - Messina, Laconian ...

Geographical encyclopedia