We escape... to the mountains of the Peloponnese to unwind in traditional villages away from the crowds.
Wrapped in greenery, with traditional houses, lovely mansions and stone-paved alleys, the mountain villages of the Peloponnese are ideal for relaxing escapes filled with scenes of nature and tradition. From Corinthia to Laconia, we’ve handpicked six picturesque, low-key villages for a tranquil weekend in the mountains.
Elliniko, Arcadia
A lesser-known village between Stemnitsa and Karytaina, Elliniko, built over three hills at 700 m. elevation on the southwestern slopes of Mainalo, is an ideal destination for peaceful escapes. The houses retain their traditional form and strolling the lanes carries you to another era. In the central square of Agia Triada, the imposing two-storey school building that once housed the village’s primary school will impress you. Enjoy a Greek coffee or a glass of tsipouro at the traditional kafeneia on the square and visit the village’s Ecclesiastical Museum with its two impressive chandeliers.
With charming guesthouses and two small tavernas, Elliniko has everything you need for a calm weekend in the mountains,while it also makes a great base for discovering some of the loveliest sights in the area. Nature lovers will find their paradise in the enchanting Lousios Gorge, enjoying activities such as cycling, hiking and even rafting on the river. It’s worth visiting Ancient Gortyna too, the sanctuary of Asclepius famed in antiquity. Its ruins lie beside the Lousios River, at an elevation of about 350 m.
Kosmas, Arcadia
Kosmas, known as the “balcony of Kynouria”, is a quiet traditional settlement hidden on the southeastern skirts of Parnon at 1,150 m. elevation, amidst a verdant landscape with abundant waters and magnificent fir forests. The village is approached either via Leonidio or via Sparta. It has stone-built houses and a beautiful square with enormous plane trees, at the center of which stands the imposing church of Saints Anargyroi.
The setting is ideal for unwinding over coffee, meze, and traditional galaktoboureko. At the village’s feet, the wonderful chestnut forest offers opportunities for exploration year-round. Using Kosmas as your base, you can take mini excursions to Leonidio and to Geraki with its Byzantine castle town, as well as day trips to Mystras, Gythio, Monemvasia and more. Don’t miss the impressive Monastery of Elona, wedged into a towering sheer rock between Kosmas and Leonidio.
Tsinzina, Laconia
Hidden among firs in the heart of Parnon, with traditional stone houses amphitheatrically built on three slopes, the village of Tsinzina (also known as Polydroso) feels like a sanctuary and is perfect for escapes in every season. The settlement is ideal for those seeking relaxation and serenity, while thanks to nine waymarked trails of varying difficulty it’s an extremely popular base for hikes on Parnon and nature outings in general. If you’re in the mood to explore, around Tsinzina you’ll discover caves, springs and picturesque little chapels. Among the village’s most important sights are the monastery of Saints Anargyroi and the church of Saint Vlasis with frescoes by Photis Kontoglou.
