A mountainous interior and stunning coastlines await those who visit this peninsula. The Peloponnese in Greece is separated from the main island by the Gulf of Corinth. Although it may be considered as an island, it’s still connected to Greece by the isthmus of Corinth and the Charilaos Trikoupis Bridge, connecting Rio on the Peloponnese peninsula and Antirrio on the mainland. Not only are the spectacular beaches a draw, but also the rich mythical history and archaeological interests.
Photo by: Nikolai Sorokin/Adobe Stock
Bassae is located on the peninsula, Greece’s first ever UNESCO World Heritage Site. Also locate where Hercules fought the Nemean lion, visit where Paris of Troy eloped with Helen, and set foot where the Argonauts took to the sea in their hunt for the golden fleece. Many more highlights can be found, including the birthplace of the Olympic Games. We discuss below some of the best places you need to include on your Peloponnese itinerary.
Corinth
Collecting your hire car in Athens handily places you ready to cross over the piece of natural land that connects mainland Greece to this peninsula. The seaside location of Corinth and its archaeological sites are well-nestled among pine and olive trees just on the other side. It allows some great views of the Corinthian Gulf, the Isthmus of Corinth and the Oneia Mountains. Much of the original settlement here has been destroyed during past earthquakes. Worth a visit however is the monolithic rock, Acrocorinth, and the Temple of Apollo. Initially made with 21 columns, only 7 remain. Also explore the Temple of Octavia, a theatre, odeion and stoas.
Exit on the E65 further inland, then take the junction for Nemea.
Nemea
Here is where Hercules is said to have slain the lion for King Eurystheus for the first of his twelve labours. You won’t find lions here now, but there are some fantastic vineyards. The Nemean Wine Route is a must for connoisseurs of fine wines. There’s a reason why Homer called the Peloponnese Ampebessa; the land full of vines. Here, vineyards are diverse and complex. Although Greek wine isn’t as recognised or as appreciated as Italian or French competition, they’ve been producing varieties for centuries, and even have a dedicated god for the beverage; Dionysus. Around 40 wineries are in operation in the Nemea area and many offer tours and tastings. Be sure to visit the Palivou Estate for friendly hosts and delicious wines made from the local grape, agiorgitiko.
Backtrack a little and head south.
The Lion Gate at Mycenae. Photo by: Lefteris Papaulakis/Adobe Stock
Mycenae
Take Route 7 to the home of Agamemnon, once a military stronghold, who led the Greek soldiers during the Trojan war. Locate Agamemnon’s Palace which is built across different levels of ground. You’ll find many examples of bee hived-shaped tombs, known as tholos, including the Treasury of Atreus. Discover the Lion Gate, featuring two fantastic lions carved in the stone archway, emblems of the Mycenaean kings, representing their power and dominance.
Further south still sits Nafplion.
Nafplion
Sitting on the 216m high hill in this pretty seaside town, is the Venetian fortress, Palamidi. Climb over 900 steps to reach the top, or just drive your hire car up there. You’ll be rewarded with some unhindered views of the Argolic Gulf, the town and the surrounding country. The 18th century fortress itself is a military and architectural masterpiece, cleverly designed with 8 self-sufficient bastions that could remain defendable even if one fell.
From here, cut east to Tripoli and then down to Sparta. Some of you probably have that iconic film line in your head, “This is Sparta!” (well this is it, kind of).
Sparta
Modern day Sparta is built on the site of Ancient Sparta. In the centre, you can visit the Archaeological Museum and to the north-west lies the Tomb of Leonidas, the warrior-king which film buffs will recognise from 300. Every year the town hosts the ultramarathon, Spartathlon. Participants must navigate the 153-mile course within 36 hours, first designed by British RAF servicemen in 1983.
Monemvasia. Photo by: megastocker/Adobe Stock
Laconia
The fortified town of Mystras and the fortress city of Monemvasia are worth visiting to see some great medieval architecture.
Once a Byzantine Empire stronghold, spend a while in Mystras to explore the ruined palaces and intact churches. Hike to the mountain top fortress and visit the working convent.
Monemvasia is located on an island which is now connected by a bridge from the GR-86. Many medieval buildings here have been restored following a surge in tourism.
Mani Peninsula
At the very most southernmost point on the Peloponnese, you’ll find Cape Tenaro (also known as Cape Metapan). This is a great area for swimming or hiking along the coastline. Rest up at the Taverna Akron Tainaro with some refreshments before taking the path further than your hire car can go to the beautiful Lighthouse Tenaro. You’ll discover many archaeological delights along the way, all very untouched by tourism, including a cave, once said to be home to Hades, and the remains of a temple dedicated to Poseidon.
While driving along the Mani Peninsula, you’ll find many examples of tower houses, used as a symbol of power and to help defend land. You can even stay in one.
Along the west coast, locate the Diros Caves.
Track along the east coast of the Peloponnese until you hit our next highlight.
The abandoned village of Vathia in the Mani Peninsula. Photo by: Christian Delbert/Adobe Stock
Olympia
Place your feet along the original starting line for the Olympic Games. The flame still starts here every 4 years in honour, lit in an official ceremony when the rays of the sun pass through a parabolic mirror. The area is not considered a town, but more a sanctuary for the games which first started in the 8th century BC. It’s also a place for worshipping of the Greek gods. Visit the Temple of Hera and the Temple of Zeus which make up this national shrine that once held many treasures of Greek art. Nearby, wander around the Archaeological Museum of Olympia which is very famous for its impressive collection of sculptures, bronzes (the richest in the world), and terracotta pieces.
Take a detour inland if you seek some incredible hiking views.
Demitsana
This is a great village to base yourself for hiking. It sits along the Menalon Trail, a 75km hike through the countryside. Trek towards either Stemnitsa, checking out the old and new Philosophou Monasteries, the Louisios Gorge, and the Prodromos Monastery. Alternatively, hike to Zygovisti. The Trail is clearly signposted.
When you’ve stretched your legs, head the northern point of the island.
ruins at Ancient Olympia. Photo by: elgreko/Adobe Stock
Patras
The third-largest city in Greece and the largest in the Peloponnese, the port here serves to ferry travellers to the Ionian Islands and to Italy. Head to the beach promenade for a stroll or to sip a coffee overlooking the sea; hang around for a stunning sunset. The city hosts Greece’s largest carnival, usually starting on January 17th each year and consists of a variety of events from parades, to balls, and treasure hunts. Key archaeological delights here include the Roman Odeon, the Fortress of Rio, and Patras Castle.
Explore the Peloponnese unhindered
Be sure to book a hire car to make access to these locations as easy as possible. We’d love to know if you’re planning a trip there soon, and where you’re most excited about visiting. Let us know in the comments below.
Written by Jessica Juby.
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