A Journey through Time and Tradition in Greece

Explore the history of Mani, a rugged section of the southern Peloponnese peninsula, on this scenic hike through ancient trails. Starting from the coastline, you’ll gradually ascend into the rugged slopes of the Taygetos Mountains, trekking to the village of Exochori, whose earliest reference dates back to the 13th century. Its highland fortress was once the strategic heart of Kardamyli, and its powerful history still echoes through the ages. Timeworn hamlets and silvered olive groves accentuate the weathered character of the land, opening up into dramatic views over Viros Gorge.

This gentle cycling adventure takes you deep into the age-old hills of western Mani, where stone hamlets and ancient olive groves signify a land still steeped in tradition. Slow down and reconnect with nature, taking the time to observe and absorb the quiet stillness of each passing landscape. You’ll pass through communities where traditions thrive and the fruits of the land are enjoyed in family-run tavernas. Your guide can time the ride with sunset, allowing you to enjoy the scenic landscapes basked in a golden glow.

Rugged Cape Tainaron, also known as Cape Matapan, is a place steeped in myths and legends, where ancient history echoes on the salty winds. The southernmost point of mainland Europe, it was known in Greek legend as one of the main gateways to the underworld, and it was here that Hercules confronted Cerberus, the hound of Hades. Beyond its spiritual and mythological importance, it was also a large Roman settlement, though today you’ll find it peacefully desolate. The five kilometre trail gives you the chance to follow in the footsteps of Ancient Greece’s enduring legends and rewards you with stirring views over the Libyan sea.

Enter inside Monemvasia’s imposing stone walls to walk its cobbled streets and absorb the legends that lie within. Your knowledgeable local guide will take you on a tour of the old town, navigating the upper and lower quarters filled with stone alleys, arched passageways and Byzantine chapels. With each step, you’ll learn about the merchants, seafearers, poets and empires that shaped this medieval port. Complement the exploration by sampling regional flavours such as gydotyri (local goats cheese) in a sea-view taverna as you reflect on the history and stories you’ve heard.

Today, close to Monemvasia, you’ll visit an imposing stone mansion for a Laconian  enogastronomy experience. Learn about different facets of Laconian culture and history through a hands-on cooking experience, wine tasting and a guided tour of the private olive oil museum. Taste your way through the region’s culinary heritage with time-honoured recipes and discover the importance of feasting in harmony with nature by using fresh, seasonal ingredients.

Today you’ll experience the rewarding process of cooking your own lunch from scratch, something still practised daily by some of the families in this region. Fire up the wood oven as you learn the art of making and kneading dough, before strolling through the vegetable garden to handpick your ingredients. You’ll be preparing a classic briam, Greece’s version of ratatouille, which showcases the rainbow of produce from the land. Enjoy it family style with your hosts in keeping with traditional Greek life.

Time to switch gears and prepare yourself for a thrill with a half day of exhilarating adventure on the Lousios river rapids. The crystal clear waters will rush past your raft, carrying you past craggy cliffs and glimpses of historical ruins among the greenery as you deftly steer your way through the surge. This is the perfect way to break from the tranquil pace of life here and feel the thrill of excitement that comes from being at one with the natural forces of the river.

Experience the Lousios Gorge from a different perspective today with a visit to the Monastery of Prodromos, which clings dramatically to the sheer rock face of the gorge. Your scenic trail here is rewarded with traditional coffee and handmade loukoumia (Turkish delight), given out by the monks who live here. Continue down to the Lousios river to visit the archeological site of Ancient Gortys, an important Arcadian settlement, which featured a healing centre including a temple and baths, before cooling off with a swim in the river.

You’ll also have the option to extend your hike to the picturesque village of Dimitsana or the Philosophou Monastery.

Toast to Greek winemaking heritage with an evening at the renowned Katogi Averoff Winery, which has been innovating wine production from its mountain setting since 1973. Your private guided tour will be led by the grandson of the estate’s founder, who’ll bring his family’s winemaking passion to life as you explore. Conclude with a curated dinner experience, with each course carefully paired with one of the estate’s signature wines for an authentic taste of Epirus.

Venture on foot into the crisp quiet of Meteora’s forests in search of the buried treasure within. The delicious truffles found here are made all the more delicious by being involved in the thrill of searching for them, which you’ll do accompanied by skilled truffle hunters and their highly trained dogs. Once your hunt is successful, a professional chef will prepare a fresh truffle pasta using the very truffles you helped to find, for the ultimate plant to plate meal in the middle of nature. Explore the bounties of the land further with a guided tour of the Museum of Natural History of Meteora and the Mushroom Museum, before enjoying a tasting session of some of the mushrooms found in the region.

Float through the Vikos-Aoos National Park on this relaxing river rafting experience on the Voidomatis river. Its clear, cold waters are some of the cleanest in Europe, ideal for first-time rafters who want to get stuck in while being able to appreciate the vast natural beauty around you. Starting at Aristi Bridge, you’ll flow through forested canyons lined with time-worn trees, taking in the inspiring views with your certified guide at the helm.

You’ll also have the option to add some hiking, allowing you to venture closer to the landscapes you admired from the water.

Vikos Gorge is one of the defining geological features of the region, and today’s excursion allows you to see why. Stretching around 20 kilometres in length, Vikos Gorge is the deepest canyon in the world in proportion to its width, formed over millions of years by the Voidomatis River. The ancient trail will reconnect you with nature through a series of staggering contrasting landscapes – lush forested slopes, soaring limestone cliffs and the deep scar of the canyon each reinforce the power and majesty of the earth. There are a number of starting points and route variations to choose from, but all are sure to provide an awe-inspiring experience for adventurers and nature lovers alike.

Connect with the region of East Zagori on foot, with this active exploration of its centuries-old stone paths and arching stone bridges. Starting at Kapetan Arkoudas Bridge, your guide will lead you on a scenic route through forest, rivers and traditional villages towards the three-arched Millon Bridge. This is a great way to introduce yourself to the region’s heritage while still enjoying the slow-pace of nature.