Things to do in

Kalavryta

Kalavryta town is one of the hot winter destinations in the Peloponnese. A beautiful town with stone-built houses, squares, charming alleys, picturesque cafés and restaurants right next to shady plane trees, is a destination ideal for those aiming to combine their love for nature with their romantic mood. Kalavryta town lies at the foot of Mt. Chelmos and it is a must-visit place during the colder months of the year on account of its ski center, Odontotos, the rack railway service (inaugurated in 1896) which covers the 22 km Kalavryta – Diakofto route.Driving to Kalavryta, we will have a short stop at the Corinth Canal and then go to Diakofto to take the Odontotos Rack Railway to Kalavrita. The cogwheel route from Diakopto to the town of Kalavryta is one of the most beautiful routes in the country and one of the most picturesque things you can organize in the wider region of Western Greece. And this is where the really good things start for your one-day trip. From Diakofto to Kalavryta you will see aspects of Greece that you might not imagine are hidden so close to Athens. Is it the most beautiful train ride? Possibly. Relax and enjoy! During the route and while crossing the Vouraikos river gorge with Odontotos, you can keep in mind some information about the history of your means of transport. In 1886, the contract for the construction of the line was signed and in 1896, the first route took place and it is one of the narrowest lines in the world. Next stop is the mythical Cave of the Lakes. Were there hippopotamuses living? With the labyrinthine corridors, mysterious galleries and strange stalactites, the famous Lakes Cave is a rare creation of nature. Fossilized bones of humans and animals have been found among which hippopotamus, which testifies that the cave was inhabited since the 6th millennium B.C., and it is also mentioned in many ancient myths.Planitero is a picturesque village, which is located 25 km from Kalavrita, at an altitude of 697 meters. The most enchanting sycamore forest in Greece is below an amphitheatrical village of incomparable beauty. The fairy forest of the springs of the Aroani River, is known for its many water mills and fish farms. The incredible forest with the over-Aenovian plane trees, the watermills, one of which is still working, and the springs of the Aroani river with the water gushing through the rocks make Planitero a favorite and popular destination. The area of Planitero is located within the Natura 2000 area “Mount Helmos and Stygos waters”. The area is suitable for trekking and climbing.

Spend a day on a private tour exploring the natural and man-made wonders surrounding Athens, including the ancient city of Corinth, the Lakes Cave, and a cogwheel railway. Your guide will provide insights into the sites you visit, and you can choose to have a guide in Corinth. After being picked up from your accommodation in Athens, drive along the mainland coast towards the Peloponnese, stopping first at the Corinth Canal. Marvel at the Canal of Corinth, a stunning feat of engineering that stands 80 meters high. While Paul didn’t see this canal, it highlights Corinth's historical significance as a trade hub, integral to his missionary journeys. Next stop will be at Ancient Corinth, where Paul established a Christian community. Key sites include the Bema, where he stood trial, and the Ancient Market, vital for understanding early Christian interactions within a diverse cultural landscape. Then, arrive in Diakofto to board the cogwheel train that traverses the Vouraikos Gorge, one of Greece’s most beautiful natural attractions. The train ride ends in Kalavryta, where your guide will meet you to take you to the mysterious and enchanting Lakes Cave. Discover this rare natural formation featuring 13 small and large lakes, each with different colors, formed within a cave that you can now explore. See the "hanging bridge," "waterfalls," and unique stalactite formations, feeling as if you’re walking in a suspended corridor. Proceed through an artificial tunnel leading directly to the second floor for some awe-inspiring sights. Finally, stop for lunch (paid by you) in the picturesque village of Kalavryta before returning to Athens.

Day 1: Corinth - Gog Railway - Kalavryta - Nafplio: After pickup from your hotel in Athens, start the tour with a visit to the Canal of Corinth and the town of Ancient Corinth. Hop on the Cog Railway which links Kalavrita via Vouraikos Canyon, continue the trip to magnificent "Cave of Lakes. Stay overnight in Nafplio. Day 2: Nafplio - Mycenae - Epidaurus: After your breakfast, stroll through the narrow streets of Nafplio full of old mansions. Visit Palamidi castle with its panoramic view, the Theatre of Epidaurus, famous for the breathtaking acoustics, and the ancient town of Mycenae. Stay in the town of Olympia overnight. Day 3: Olympia - Delphi: Visit Ancient the local museum and the site where the first Olympic Games took place in 776 BC. See the ruins of the temple of Zeus, the temple of Hera, the Treasury houses, the Gymnasium, and Palestra. Leaving Ancient Olympia, pass by the bridge of Rion-Antirion and reach Delphi where you will stay overnight. Day 4: Delphi - Meteora: Explore the town of Delphi, the Ancient Oracle, Stadium, Ancient Theatre, and the Museum of Delphi. Delphi is perhaps best known for the oracle at the sanctuary that was dedicated to Apollo during the classical period. Stop at the village of Arachova and then Meteora for an overnight stay. Day 5: Meteora - Athens Explore Meteora and its fantastic scenery of historic monasteries containing priceless historical and religious treasures, standing between earth and sky atop huge rocks. Visit the monastery of Varlaam, Grand Meteoro, or the monastery of St. Stephan depending on the day day of the tour. Stop at Thermopiles before heading to Athens. Day 6: Private Tour of Athens Explore Athens on a private tour. See Panathinaiko Stadium, Zappeion, Temple of Olympian Zeus, Hadrian’s Arch, and the Parliament. Visit Mount Lycabettus, the highest point in the city. Visit the Acropolis and Parthenon built during the Golden Age of Pericles and the new Museum of Acropolis. Stroll through the streets of Plaka and taste the famous "Greek Souvlaki." Stay overnight in Athens. Day 7: Athens - Santorini: Transfer in the morning to the port of Piraeus to board the ferry to Santorini. Upon arrival on Santorini, be dropped off at your hotel. Enjoy free time to explore your location. Day 8: Santorini: Sunset Cruise to Volcano with Buffet Enjoy a free morning, with pickup in the afternoon for a sunset cruise to the volcano. Walk to the volcano’s ridge and learn all about its history. Sail to the island of Palea Kameni to enjoy your dinner, followed by a trip to the village of Oia where you can admire the sunset. Then, be dropped off at your hotel. Day 9: Free Day on Santorini Spend a day relaxing at your hotel or spend some time exploring your surroundings at your own leisure. Day 10: Departure from Santorini Airport Transfer from your hotel to Santorini Airport for your flight.