Mythical Peloponnese: Castles and Legendary Sanctuaries

Day 1: Drive to Acrocorinthos, the acropolis of ancient Corinth. This is a 575 m (1,886 ft) – high rock overlooking Corinth that was continuously occupied from archaic times to the early 19th century. Prior to arriving at Acrocorinthos, we make a short stop at the Corinth Canal, which cuts through the narrow Isthmus of Corinth and separates the Peloponnese from the Greek mainland, thus effectively making the former peninsula an island. Onwards to our first base in the vicinity of Pylos.

Day 2: Visit to Niokastro, the castle of Pylos, and to the Monument of the Admirals which commemorates the sea battle of Navarino and the resulting destruction of the Turkish fleet by the joint British, French and Russian fleets in 1827, during the Greek War of Independence. Overnight in the vicinity of Pylos.

Day 3: Visit to illustrious Ancient Olympia, a UNESCO World Heritage site, and its wonderful museum and to Kyparissia castle on the way back. Short walk at Yalova lagoon and Voidikoilia cove, both beautiful scenic spots. Overnight in the vicinity of Pylos.

Day 4: Visit to impressive Methoni and Koroni castles. Overnight at Kalamata.

Day 5: Visits to Kalamata and Androussa castles and, time permitting, to the wonderful archaeological site of Ancient Messene. Overnight at Kalamata.

Day 6: Drive to the remarkable castle-town of Monemvassia via a visit to the citadel of Mystras, a UNESCO World Heritage site, and a short stop at Sparta, the birthplace of fabled Leonidas and his 300 fierce warriors. Overnight at Monemvassia.

Day 7: Exploration of Monemvassia - and of the famous Malvasia wine at a local winery. Overnight at Monemvassia.

Day 8: Drive to the picturesque sea-side town of Nafplio and visit of Palamidi fortress and the sea-fort of Bourtzi. Overnight at Nafplio.

Day 9: Full day and overnight at Nafplio.

Day 10: Return to Athens via Ancient Tiryns and illustrious Ancient Mycenae, both being UNESCO World Heritage sites.

Accommodation is at specially-selected, European standard city and country hotels. Transportation is by modern, air-conditioned coach whilst the venues for lunch and dinner have been carefully chosen, not least with the hungry explorer in mind – but also to reflect the ancient Greek tradition where eating is central to social interaction and happy bonding.