Villages of Peloponnese
Villages are the main attraction for visitors
Master Guide: The Villages of Morea – Where time stands still
The Setting: A mosaic of stone tower-houses, cobblestone alleys, and squares with ancient plane trees.
Top Destinations: Dimitsana & Stemnitsa (Arcadia), Trikala (Corinthia), Kalavryta (Achaia), Kastanitsa (Parnon), Karyes (Laconia).
Vibe: Authentic hospitality, cozy fireplaces, traditional cafes, and crisp mountain air.
Hero Tip: Visit Kastanitsa in autumn (Chestnut Festival) or Trikala Korinthias with the first snow. Staying in a traditional guesthouse overlooking fir-covered slopes is the ultimate soul "Reset."
Discover the most beautiful villages in Peloponnese, where time seems to stand still. From the stone-built towers of Mani to the scenic mountain villages of Arcadia, explore the hidden gems of mainland Greece and experience authentic local life.
Peloponnese is a complex mosaic in terms of geography and soil morphology, combining a rich coastline with mountainous areas that impress with their natural beauty.
In summer most of the trips revolve around the seaside destinations but during the autumn and winter months the mountainous villages are the main attraction for visitors.
Either because of the excellent ski facilities, or because of their proximity to forest areas for hiking or simply for the clean mountain air they offer generously, the following villages are just some of the mountainous places that serve as the best advertisement for “Moria”, aka the Peloponnese.
The most representative example of evocative nature and mountainous villages with stone houses and reddish tiled roofs can be found in the prefecture of Arcadia. On the slopes of Mountainous Arcadia are some of the most famous villages.
Arcadia's mountainous villages like Dimitsana and Stemnitsa are perfect for slow travel enthusiasts, offering traditional architecture and breathtaking views of the Lousios Gorge.
In Dimitsana, with its trademark tower houses and cobbled streets, you can visit its library, the Offshore Hydropower Museum and make it your base for excursions to the Lousios Gorge.
In Stemnitsa, there are the dominant impressive tower houses such as that of “Roilos” and the churches of the 12th and 15th century. In medieval Karytaina, where the stone is also dominant, visit its Castle which is built on the top of the hill.
In Lagadia, home of many fighters of the Greek Revolution of 1821, you can admire the elegant houses created by the famous local stone craftsmen and relax in the main square with the century-old plane trees.
Also worth mentioning is the oldest Tsakonian village of Parnonas, Kastanitsa with its white houses springing from the rich forest and the chestnut trees.
Two more villages on Parnonas, Kosmas and Agios Petros entice the visitor thanks to the natural beauty and the peace they offer. In Caryes of Laconia, also known as Arachova, which lies at the foot of Mount Parnonas, the main attraction is the Caryatids, copies of the originals statues at the Erechtheum on the Acropolis.
The traditional settlements of Mount Parnonas are ideal for those seeking off-the-beaten-path destinations, combining history with untouched natural beauty.
Among the most famous villages of the prefecture of Corinth areTrikala and Kalavrita. Trikala, divided into three settlements, Upper, Lower and Middle Trikala, are built on the slopes of Ziria and their natural landscapes and excellent accommodation choices attract many visitors even for short getaways.
The historic Kalavrita, at the foot of Helmos, with its famous Odontotos rack railway and its modern ski center, provide a variety of options to the visitor regarding the available activities.
Winter in Peloponnese has something magical
Fire smoldering in the fireplace. Chimneys that smoke as you approach a stone village wrapped in the haze of dusk.
Traditional kafeneio that serve Greek coffee roasted on the coals. However, there are people who think that winter is not a beautiful season.
They’ve probably never seen the winter in Peloponnese
That magical part of Greece which is ideal for every type weather and for every season
Peloponnese, this magical part of Greece, is captivating in every season thanks to its rich cultural treasures, stunning nature, and ancient history. However, it seems to shine even more brightly during winter.
Seasons