Taygetos

HIGHLIGHTS

Hike Majestic Trails: Trek through the breathtaking landscapes of Mt. Taygetos, navigating lush gorges, ancient forests, and rugged peaks, while uncovering hidden springs and stunning panoramas.
Explore Historic Sites: Walk in the footsteps of history as you visit the nearby ancient city of Sparta, where King Leonidas and his legendary 300 Spartans made their stand against the Persian army at the Battle of Thermopylae, a tale of valor and sacrifice that echoes through the ages.
Discover Enchanting Landmarks: Marvel the stunning views from Prophet Elias Peak, offering a glimpse into the rich heritage of this iconic area.
Savor Traditional Delights: Delight in authentic Peloponnesian cuisine, sampling hearty dishes prepared with locally sourced ingredients, including succulent lamb and fresh vegetables that reflect the region's culinary traditions.
Stay in Cozy Accommodations: Rest in charming lodges.

OVERVIEW

Start / Finish

Athens or Sparta

Difficulty

Info

3-5 (winter)

Total Distance

8-14Km

Daily Ascent

850-1400m

Total Ascent

850-1400m

Duration

2 days

Reservation

Day 1: Journey from Athens, Kalamata or Sparta to Taygetos

Your adventure begins with a scenic drive from Athens, Kalamata or Sparta to the breathtaking region of Taygetos, renowned for its dramatic landscapes and towering peaks. As you traverse the winding roads, you’ll pass through charming villages and fertile plains, with the majestic Taygetos mountain range coming into view. Upon arrival near Sparta, you have the option to check into a cozy hotel or a rustic mountain hut, where you can unwind and prepare for the following day's ascent.

The evening offers a chance to explore the local area, perhaps taking a leisurely stroll through the nearby village to soak in the tranquil atmosphere of the Peloponnese. As the sun sets, enjoy a delightful dinner at a traditional tavern, where you can savor authentic Greek dishes made from locally sourced ingredients. This culinary experience will fuel your excitement for the trek ahead as you rest for the night, surrounded by the beauty of the mountains.

Day 2: Ascent to Prophet Elias Peak

Estimated cost per person	Minimum Cost (for 1person)
Eur 350	Eur 700

WHAT IS INCLUDED: PRIVATE GUIDED TOUR
- Guided hikes
- Accommodation in local traditional hotels rooms.
- Breakfast
- Transfer from and to Sparta and to the various daily starting and ending locations (special arrangements could be made for Athens or Thessaloniki)
- Transport of luggage between hotels when necessary.
- Local English-speaking mountain guide
WHAT IS NOT INCLUDED
- Travel insurance
- Dinner
- Lunches
OPTIONAL EXTRAS
- Private rooms can be reserved in advance
- Airport transfer from Athens or Thessaloniki is available on request
COMPLIMENTARY SERVICES
- Self-guided trip: electronic maps with satellite navigation for your phone (Android or Apple phone required)
  gation for your phone (Android or Apple phone required)

TRAVEL TO TAYGETOS MOUNTAIN RANGE

The trip begins from Athens, Sparta or Kalamata, depending on your preferred travel option. Mount Taygetos is located approximately 245 km from Athens and 110 km from Kalamata Airport. You can easily reach the hiking starting points by car or taxi from either city. The trek typically starts at Mangaiari Springs or the nearby mountain hut, both of which are easily accessible. There are local bus connections available, and we can assist you in planning your route from the airport, providing bus schedules, or arranging a car/minivan transfer. Please contact us before purchasing plane tickets.

CLOTHING AND GEAR

Proper hiking boots are essential for Taygetos mountain range. We recommend sturdy, worn-in trekking shoes or boots that provide good ankle support and stability on rocky terrain. Even in summer, it’s wise to bring some warm clothing. Recommended gear includes:

Waterproof/windproof jacket
Fleece or mid-layer tops
Long hiking pants
Moisture-wicking t-shirts (synthetic or merino wool)
Sunglasses and a cap
A raincoat or poncho
Toiletries and light footwear for village use
At least one one-liter bottle for water

ACCOMMODATION

Depending on your arrival time, the first and last nights of your trip may be spent in one of the hotels near Taygetos mountain range. While hiking, you will stay overnight in traditional guesthouses or hotels in the villages. Services typically include:

A bed in a shared or private room (must be booked in advance)
Shower with hot water and toilets

We will inform you in advance about the availability of local shops for medicines or snacks, which can be found in the larger villages or Sparta. For detailed information on accommodations or special preferences, please contact us.

MEALS

On village-to-village hiking tours, breakfast is provided. Dinner is available at traditional taverns in the area. Typically, breakfast is served from 7 am to 9 am and includes:

Unlimited coffee and tea
Bread, butter, jam, eggs, honey, and chocolate spread
Some guesthouses may offer ham, cheese, and local pies

After breakfast, we recommend filling your thermos with hot water or tea, which is often provided for free.

Dinner time in the villages usually ranges from 6 pm to 11 pm. A typical dinner is hearty and includes:

A salad as a starter
Appetizers (such as tzatziki, local cheese, or fried cheese)
A main course (meat with a side dish or vegetables)
Dessert

Drinks available during dinner include water, wine, beer, local tsipouro, herbal tea, and coffee.

For lunch, you can stop at a tavern or enjoy a packed lunch on the trail.

Feel free to ask if you need more information or assistance!

SAFETY MATTERS

Our hiking tours are led by professional mountain leaders, each with years of guiding and wilderness experience and with passion for the outdoors. They usually work in the region of the hiking trip, have professional training, are trained for emergency situations, regularly upgrade their qualifications and work in accordance with Greek regulations.

In cases of self-guided hiking, you must be properly dressed, follow the safety rules and make realistic time calculations for daily crossings – preferably according to the hiking guidelines that we provide. Our self-guided hiking trips are organized so that they do not require specific abilities and skills or gear, unless it is clearly specified in the trip description. You can expect not so well maintained trails like the ones in the Alps or in N, Europe or N. America, however, equipped with direction signs. Exposed sections of the paths may not be secured on the self-guided routes. However they are considered safe provided that you follow the basic safety rules for hiking in the mountains. We will give you any necessary information.

Mountains are a natural environment with a high level of risk, so we insistently ask all guests to engage into activities according to skill and fitness level. If you have questions about the safety rules, please contact us.

INSURANCE

It is important to have an appropriate insurance that covers the hiking activity. You don't need to include the climbing activity in your insurance, unless you are planning to climb during the hike. However, it is important to mention that there is no HEMS in Greece. We mostly depend on the state operated EMAK service (Joint Rescue Coordination Service) which is not as quick and efficient as rescue operations abroad.

WEATHER ON THE TAYGETOS MOUNTAIN RANGE

Mount Taygetos, located at the south end of the Peloponnese, offers hikers a variety of weather conditions depending on the season. The most favorable hiking months are April to November. During spring (April and May) and autumn (October and November), the weather is mild, with average daytime temperatures ranging between 20°C to 25°C (68°F to 77°F), making it comfortable for trekking.

This diversity in climate ensures that the Taygetos Mountain Range provides year-round appeal, but hikers should always check local weather conditions and prepare accordingly before setting off.

Winter alpine climbs require mountaineering experience and special gear and equipment!

Embark on an exhilarating journey to the peak of Mt. Taygetos, a stunning adventure that showcases the breathtaking landscapes and rich history of the Peloponnese region in Greece. This majestic mountain, towering at 2,404 meters, offers hikers a chance to explore diverse terrains, from lush forests and rocky outcrops to panoramic viewpoints that reveal the beauty of the surrounding valleys.

As you ascend, you will follow well-marked trails that lead you through ancient pathways once traversed by the legendary 300 Spartans, led by King Leonidas during their valiant stand at the Battle of Thermopylae. The echoes of this historic event imbue the landscape with a sense of reverence and awe, making your hike a journey through both nature and history.

The trek to Prophet Elias Peak is characterized by its striking vistas, where each turn unveils spectacular views of the rugged Taygetos range and the fertile plains below. Along the way, you may encounter diverse wildlife, including eagles and various endemic species that thrive in this protected environment. Winter alpine climbs require use of technical gear such as crampons and ice-axes.

Whether you choose to start from the Mangaiari Springs or the mountain hut, the experience promises a rewarding climb filled with cultural significance and natural beauty.

GrEco Hiking