Gialova Lagoon

Gialova lagoon is located in Messinia and is one of the most important wetlands not only in Greece, but also in Europe. It probably dates to prehistoric times and owes its creation both to tectonic activity and to a rise in sea level, phenomena which created this ecological zone of unique importance.The Gialova lagoon is the first station in the Balkans that the migratory birds from Africa come across; according to the estimates, these birds are 2 billion in number. Of the 442 bird species... διαβάστε περισσότερα

The Gorge of Neda

Neda is the only “female” river in Greece. It stems from the foot of Mount Lykaion and flows into the Ionian Sea, more specifically into the Kyparissiakos Gulf. Neda is approximately 32 kilometres long and passes through a stunning fairytale-like landscape.The Valley of Neda was of particular importance to the ancient Greeks and was often mentioned in various myths, while it is surrounded by archaeological remnants. A unique temple, dedicated to God Pan, is located here, while the majestic temple... διαβάστε περισσότερα

Vassiliki Forest

The forest of Vassiliki is located at the southern part of the Taygetus mountain range, 8 km south of its summit, and has an expanse of approximately 11,000 stremmata. It is a relatively secluded forest, surrounded by summits. You can reach it from Eksochori and there is a road in the forest you can follow for 21 km. Here you will mostly come across fir trees and black pines. During the Italian Occupation a great fire destroyed large expanses of the forest, which managed, however, to resurrect... διαβάστε περισσότερα

The Gorge of Vyros

The Gorge of Vyros is one of the many gorges of the Peloponnese and is situated on the western slopes of Mount Taygetos, covering a distance of 19 kilometres and filled with firs, pines, cedars, cypresses and walnut trees. It begins from the village of Agios Panteleimon and ends up in the villages of Exohori and Tseria. Beyond its obvious natural beauty, this gorge stands out also because of its historical importance. Reportedly, the Royal Route went through this gorge, connecting ancient Sparta... διαβάστε περισσότερα

The Gorge of Rintomos

The wider area of Messinia is filled with impressive natural formations, creating a stunning landscape. Mountains, rivers and gorges compose a unique backdrop that dazzles the eye. One of the many gorges of the area is that of Rintomos, which starts from the peaks of Mount Taygetos and ends up at the shore of Santova on the Messinian Gulf. The Gorge of Rintomos is truly majestic and is characterized by lush flora, steep ravines, diversified rocks and virtually vertical slopes. Crossing the gorge... διαβάστε περισσότερα

Pylos Lagoon (Divari)

The wetland between the settlement of Gialova and the bay of Voidokilia, which has been declared as an archaeological site, spreads over 6,000 acres of land and is known as Divari (from the Latin vivarium, which means “fish hatchery”); it’s depth does not exceed 4 m. This lagoon is the southernmost stop of the migratory birds of the Balkans travelling to and from Africa. The wetland offers refuge to 254 bird species, such as herons, cormorants, kestrels, Aegean seagulls, flamingos, ospreys,... διαβάστε περισσότερα

The Monastery of Eloni and the Gorge of Leonidio

The Monastery of Eloni is a pretty old convent in the prefecture of Arcadia, built in the steep slope of Mount Parnon, at an altitude of 650 metres and about 17 kilometres from the town of Leonidio. Due to its exceptional natural beauty, the area around the monastery has been declared as a protected zone and it’s included in the European Network Natura 2000 under the code GR2520005. It has a long gorge on the east side of the mountain -the gorge of Dafnon-, which starts from the village of Kosmas,... διαβάστε περισσότερα

River Ladon, the Artificial Lake and its Dam

Ladon is a Peloponnesian river and a tributary of Alfeios. It got its name from the homonymous river in Viotia, when the locals settled in the area around 1307 BC. Ladon is surrounded by a beautiful natural landscape, something confirmed by Pausanias. It is a calm river, which makes it ideal for many activities, like canoe-kayak, rafting and swimming, even for small children. The lovely scenery is also ideal for hiking and trekking. One of the most significant attractions of the area is the river’s... διαβάστε περισσότερα

River Lousios and its Gorge

Lousios is a Peloponnesian river and a tributary of Alfeios. It is a relatively small river, approximately 25 kilometres long. However the landscape that surrounds it on its both banks is magical. The name of the river has ancient origins. It is said that it was given this name because the newborn Zeus was bathed (Louzo=bathing) in its waters by the nymphs Theisoa, Neda and Agno. Near Karytaina, River Lousios crosses a gorge of substantial environmental importance, about 26 kilometres from its mouth.... διαβάστε περισσότερα

Frachthi cave

Frachthi cave is a world famous monument situated at the wild rocky mountain opposite the village Koilada. Excavations brought to light numerous findings among which the oldest human skeleton attesting its continuous occupation for more than 20.000 years. Walk through the beach Lampagianna, climb to the cave and enjoy the view. The world famous Frachthi cave is located next to the sea, opposite Koilada village, on a rocky hill covered by shrubs. Visitors can wander in the two chambers of the cave... διαβάστε περισσότερα