Looking for a Greek escape, without the crowds sometimes seen on the Greek Islands? asks Travel Counsellor Emma Savage . Well, how about visiting the Peloponnese? Located on the southernmost part of the mainland, it is actually technically an island, separated from the mainland by the Corinth Canal. The Peloponnese is the birthplace of Greek mythology and is packed with sites of historic interest including Olympia and Mycenae; in fact, the northern part of the peninsula is home to the greatest concentration of ancient sites anywhere in Greece.
Further south, the scenery and beaches are a big draw. It’ll take several visits to fully explore it, which is partly why so many are repeaters to this area. Messinia, in the southeastern part of the peninsula remains an unspoilt part of the country.
Though not as packed with ancient sites as further north, there is much to see here including Byzantine chapels and Venetian castles and it might just be the place you’ve been searching for, on your next holiday. Its miles of sandy beaches are perfect for relaxing on and Voidokilia Beach is widely regarded as one of the best with crystal clear warm water. Messinia is popular with active types, especially walkers who enjoy the flat Stoupa to Agois Nikolaos coastal path and the more challenging 12.
5 mile Vyros Gorge trail. Other activities include cycling, ziplining and river rafting on the Louisios River (apparently Zeus took his first bath here). Bird watchers will be very happy in this.
