Our journey begins in the elegant seaside town of Nafplion, known for its neoclassical charm and Venetian fortress. From there, the trip continues into the heart of Arcadia for three days of walking on the Mainalon Trail, with overnights in the picturesque mountain villages of Dimitsana, Vytina and Magouliana. Each day offers peaceful forest paths, traditional stone settlements, and the authentic flavors of rural Greece. On the final day, the group stops in Lagkadia for a relaxed coffee with a view, before concluding with a visit to the legendary site of Ancient Olympia, birthplace of the Olympic Games.
Day 1 meeting in Nafplion, visit town and overnight
Experience the charm of a traditional Greek town, where whitewashed houses, lively squares, and winding stone alleys invite relaxed exploration. Our small group will visit ancient ruins, centuries-old churches, and the iconic Palamidi Castle of Nafplion, perched high above the bay with breathtaking panoramic views. Surrounded by stunning coastal and mountain scenery, the area offers a perfect blend of culture, history, and natural beauty. Tonight we enjoy our dinner in one of the little taverns
overnight Nafplion
Day 2 transfer to Dimitsana and walk to Zigovitsi village
Today we drive to Dimitsana and will do a small hike from Dimitsana to Zigovisti. It is scenic stretch of the Menalon Trail that winds through fir forests, stone-paved paths, and open mountain views. It begins with beautiful vistas over the Lousios Gorge before climbing gently toward the high plateau near Zigovisti. Along the way, you’ll pass historic chapels, traditional fountains, and peaceful rural landscapes that capture the character of Arcadian mountain life. Transfer back to Dimitsana, where we have time to visit the village and dinner. The town itself, protected as a traditional settlement, has many historically or architecturally important buildings and monuments.rom the 18th century an important regional commercial center and benefited, for a period of two centuries, great economic prosperity thanks to the water-powered craft (flour, fulling, tanning and gunpowder mills), pulled by the abundant waters of the valley. Part of watermills and gunpowder mills have been restored in the excellent Open Air Water Power Museum of Dimitsana
Day 3 Walk from Elati – Vytina
We get transfered today to the little settlement of Elati and enjoy one of the nicest sections of the Mainalon hike. A beautiful forested route that follows the gentle flow of the Mylaon River. As we walk, you will pass through dense fir trees, cross wooden bridges and pass by three abandoned watermills. The path is well-marked and moderately easy, offering plenty of opportunities to enjoy nature and the charm of Arcadia before arriving in the welcoming village of Vytina.
Vytina is one of the most charming villages in the Menalon region, known for its cool mountain air, elegant stone architecture, and inviting central square lined with cafés and shops.
8,5km, 3 hours, +250m / +150m
Overnight Vytina
Day 4 walk from Vytina to Magouliana
The hike from Nymfasia to Magouliana is a picturesque stretch of the Menalon Trail that blends forest scenery with wide mountain views. The path leads you through tranquil fir woods and then gradually opens up to reveal the dramatic slopes beneath Magouliana, one of the highest villages in the Peloponnese. It’s a rewarding and moderately easy route, perfect for a small group looking to enjoy quiet nature and a memorable arrival at a traditional hilltop village.
14,5 km, 2 hours, -450m / +610m
Overnight Magouliana
Day 5 transfer to Lagkadia for coffee, ancient Olympia visit, departure from Pyrgos
On our last day today we stop at the beautiful village of Lagkadia, a dramatic stone-built village perched on the slopes of central Menalon, famous for its traditional craftsmanship and breathtaking mountain views. Its terraced houses, narrow lanes, and historic architecture create a striking setting that feels both authentic and full of character.
We then continue to ancient Olympia which was the birthplace of the Olympic Games over 2,700 years ago. Here, athletes from across the Greek world gathered to compete in honor of Zeus. As we walk among the ruins, we’ll see the remains of grand temples, training grounds, and the original stadium where spectators once cheered. The site still carries a quiet, inspiring atmosphere—perfect for imagining how the ancient Games brought people together in celebration, competition, and shared culture.
After Olympia we get a transfer to Pyrgos for our departures and good byes
* The program might change, depending weather
– walking pole
– comfortable hiking shoes
– light rain jacket and warm fleece
– sun hat
Remember we travel light!
Flexible dates for groups of min. 4!
It is also possible to join later or leave earlier
– transfer from Nafplion to Dimitsana and from ancient Olymp to Pyrgos
– all transfers during the week
– 4 nights in small hotels and breakfast
– hiking trips
– entrance ancient Olymp
– transfer to Nafplion and from Pyrgos – lunches – dinner