Travel Guides: All Countries / Europe / Greece / Mainland / Peloponnese
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| | | Natural beauty |  | Why go on holiday to the Peloponnese?
The southern tip of the Balkan peninsula is an area of great natural beauty. The diverse landscape consists of mountains, citrus groves and splendid beaches. Ancient Greek and Byzantine ruins pepper the region, next to Frankish and Venetian fortresses.
How much does it cost?
Depending where and when you go, £200 to £400 for a seven to 14-night package. Flight-only deals to the Greek mainland start at around £150. There are regular trains and buses from Athens to Corinth (bus £3, train £2-3) and Kalamata (bus £8, train £5-7) at time of writing.
When should I go?
The Mediterranean climate means summers are hot and good for sun worshippers, with temperatures rising to around 35C/95F. Winters are mild, though to the west it can get windy and wet.
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| | | Caves and waterfalls |  | What should I do when I'm there?
It is not the modern towns of the Peloponnese that make the area worth visiting, but its remnants of the ancient past.
The sprawling ruins of Corinth and Acrocorinth are the biggest attraction; the coast has good beaches; and there are excellent museums at Isthmia and Nemea.
Arcadia, the lush and beautiful central region, is relatively untouched by tourism and has a marvellous coastline. The medieval villages of Karitena, Stemnitsa and Andritsena have interesting buildings and gorgeous views.
Sparta, in contrast with its harsh, militaristic ancient past, is a modern and pleasant town with a fine museum and art gallery.
Where did they hold the Olympics?
The western prefecture of Elia is one of Greece's richest farming areas but is most famous for the town of Olympia, site of the ancient Olympic games.
It's always busy, but fascinating nonetheless, with absorbing architecture and a superb museum. The 13th-century Hlemoutsi castle is one of Greece's most impressive medieval structures.
What's up north?
The northern section of the Peloponnese, Achaia, is a popular holiday destination for Greeks.
Highlights include the city of Patras, picturesque Zahlorou with its monastery, and the mountain resort of Kalavryta, which has caves, lakes and the Mavroneri Waterfall.
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| | | Hidden beach treasures | | Where's good for nightlife?
The pretty town of Nafplio (Argolis) is a lively place at night with plenty of bars, restaurants and nightclubs. As Patras is the third-largest city in Greece, there's no shortage of entertainment there, either.
For a unique experience, check out the Air Music Club about one kilometre north of Kalavryta (Achaia) - it's housed in one of the original Boeing 720-68 planes bought by Aristotle Onassis for the launch of Olympic Airways in the 1960s!
What's the food like?
Poultry and rabbit are specialities of the Peloponnese. Kalamata is known for its figs and olives.
Other Greek favourites include tzatziki, a cucumber and yoghurt dip; Greek salad, consisting of feta cheese, olives, peppers, onions and tomatoes with oregano and olive oil; and dolmades - stuffed vine leaves.
What should I buy?
There are no handicrafts especially associated with the Peloponnese, but Greece in general is good for leather, jewellery and ceramics.
What is there for children to do?
A well-kept secret is that the beaches of the Messinian Mani, south of Kalamata, are some of the finest in Greece.
Patras is famous for its carnival, which normally takes place in January-March of every year. The children get their own 'little carnival' - known as The Baby Rally - when they get to dance in the street wearing colourful clothes.
Tourist office
Hellenic Tourism Organisation, 4 Conduit Street, London W1S 2DJ. Tel 020 7495 9300.
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| | Available rental properties in Peloponnese |
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