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Iconic Arcadia (Peloponnese)

On the slopes of the mountains of Arcadia was born the God Pan, who in ancient Greek religion and mythology is the god of the wild, shepherds and flocks, nature of mountain wilds, rustic music and impromptus and companion of the nymphs. Pausanias was impressed from the ancient cities of Tefthis & Gortyna, while the famous painter Poussin inspired to paint “et in Arcadia ego” from the relief of the region. Arcadias’ richness in history, architecture, traditional settlements, Byzantine monasteries, stone bridges and natural beauty is generously inviting you to discover its secrets.

Detailed Itinerary

Day : 1 - Athens - Mantineia - Dimitsana

08h30 departure to Mantineia to see the archaeological site, being renown for the battle between the kingdoms of Thebes and Sparta about acquiring the hegemony over Greece in 362 B.C. Arrival to Dimitsana, a traditional village built amphitheatrically by the gorge of Lucius River considered to be an open-air museum of traditional architecture. After check-in you visit the Library (1764) that houses rare exhibits from the War of Greek Independence against Ottomans in 1821. Dinner and overnight.

Day : 2 - Dimitsana (Waterpower Museum, Philosophos & Prodromos Monasteries, Ancient Gortys)

After breakfast, visit to the open-air Water Power Museum that highlights water’s importance to the development of the rural societies. Next, get ready to hiking by Lousios gorge (4hrs walking) to see Philosophos monastery, being “a secret” school during Ottoman occupation, and Prodromos monastery which stands on the rocks on thin wooden trusses. The course ends at ancient Gortys where you see the ruins of the temple of Asclepius. Return to Dimitsana, dinner and overnight.

Day : 3 - Dimitsana - Stemnitsa – Athens

Time at leisure. 12h00 departure to Stemnitsa, capital of Greece during the war of independence against Ottomans for just one day on May 27, 1821. In Stemnitsa, one of the most beautiful villages in Arcadia, you visit the Silver-Gold Smithery School, being place of studies and practice of many renowned craftsmen in Greece. Arrival to Athens in late evening.

Photo Gallery

What's Included

Transportation and in-depth visits as per detailed itinerary
Admission fees as per programme
2 nights accommodation with breakfast
2 traditional dinners (0,33 LT of house-wine inclusive)
Picnic on the second day of the programme
Tour escort
Geo Routes material
Liability Insurance
VAT
*** excluded: personal expenses, tips, gratuities, anything not explicitly stated above

Duration

3 days cultural journey
(Tour code: GR007)

Departures

- Daily on request
- Βookings close 7 days prior to departure
- Program does not operate on 6 January, 25 March, 1 May, Orthodox Easter, 28 October, Christmas & New Year periods