Greece Foodie Adventure in the Peloponnese: Plus

Your adventure begins with a group transfer from Athens Airport, swapping city bustle for the mountainous heart of the Peloponnese. A two hour drive winding into the pine-covered hills of Arcadia eventually reaches Dimitsana, a postcard-perfect village perched above the Lousios Gorge. Your base for the next two nights is the Mikri Arktos Hotel, a cosy hideaway tucked into the stone-built charm of Dimitsana. With sweeping views over the valley, warm hospitality, and traditional decor, it’s the ideal place to grab some downtime after your journey here. As the sun dips behind the mountains you’ll gather for a welcome dinner at a local taverna for some classic Greek dishes and local wines – a perfect way to toast to the days of adventure ahead.

Tuck in to a traditional Greek breakfast this morning to fuel you up for a full day hiking along the Menalon Trail, one of Greece’s most celebrated long-distance hiking trails. You'll begin in Vytina, a mountain village known for its alpine vibe and fresh air. The first stretch is a 6km walk to Nymfasia, crossing over the elegant stone Tzavarenas Bridge and following the serene Mylaon River. After a short rest here you'll continue through dense fir forests and across the dramatic Mavra Litharia gorge to reach Magouliana – the highest village in the Peloponnese. With crisp air and panoramic views in every direction, it's well worth your efforts to reach this point of the hike. You'll wrap up the day back in Vytina with a well-earned late lunch at a traditional taverna, then return to Dimitsana for a free evening to wander its cobbled lanes, sip a mountain tea in a café, or just relax at your base.

Trade hiking boots for e-bikes as you set off on two wheels along a different stretch of the Mainalon Trail. You'll roll past sleepy villages, shady forests and sun-dappled hills – the perfect mix of effort and ease with the help of your electric steed. In the afternoon, dive into the world of Nemean wine, visiting a local winery to taste Greece’s most famous red, Agiorgitiko. You’ll learn how these bold wines have their roots in ancient myth and sip your way through a variety of local vintages. The day finishes in the elegant seaside town of Nafplio, your home for the next three nights at the stylish Castellano Hotel. Blending neoclassical beauty with modern comforts, it's set just steps from the old town and harbour. Dinner tonight is in one of Nafplio’s buzzing tavernas – seafood, sunsets, and chilled local wine await.

After breakfast, it’s time to swap Peloponnese's interior for the Aegean Sea as you head to the calm waters near Epidaurus. Here you’ll hop in a sea kayak to paddle your way along the coast and across glassy bays to reach the submerged ruins of a sunken city. Paddling over ancient stone walls and columns submerged beneath clear Mediterranean waters is a surreal experience, and you'll get even closer to the ancient city as you hop out of the kayaks to snorkel around this hidden wonder. In the afternoon, Ancient Greek culture takes centre stage with a visit to the Epidaurus Theatre – one of the best-preserved classical theatres in the world. You'll hear firsthand why its acoustics are considered legendary and walk in the footsteps of ancient Greek audiences. Back in Nafplio, your evening is free tonights – perhaps for a rooftop drink overlooking Palamidi Fortress or a stroll along the palm-lined promenade.

Kick off the day with a visit to a boutique olive oil producer, where you’ll taste your way through Greece’s liquid gold and learn about the ancient methods still used today. From grassy and peppery to smooth and buttery, each oil tells a story of sun, soil and tradition. Then it’s time for some well-earned downtime as your host takes you to one of Nafplio’s stunning beaches. Swim in crystal waters, relax under the Mediterranean sun, or enjoy a coffee at a beachside café. In the afternoon, you'll gather for a hands-on Greek cooking class with a local chef. Roll up your sleeves to prepare classic dishes – mezze, mains, and sweet treats – using fresh, seasonal ingredients. Sit down together to enjoy the feast you’ve prepared, ending the day with full bellies and big smiles.

After one last breakfast in beautiful Nafplio, it’s time to return to Athens. We’ll depart after breakfast for a group transfer (around two hours), so be sure to book any return flights for after 16:00. As you head home, take with you the scents of mountain herbs, the taste of sun-ripened tomatoes, and the memories of trails, coastlines and culinary delights shared in good company.