Hotels in Olympus Riviera

Sitting pretty on the southern tip of Greece, within the beautiful Peloponnese region, you’ll discover the bustling seaside city of Kalamata. This place is an absolute haven for foodies; it’s Greece’s culinary heart and the land of olive oil, you’ll find lush groves galore lining the roads.

Built on top of the ancient city of Pharai, Holidays to Kalamata are a favourite destination among culture lovers; as well as the charming Old Town, you’ll find museum-lined streets to pique your interest. On top of all that, you’ll find little beach resorts along the Ionian coast, serving up relaxation and a wealth of watersports.

Things to do

When it comes to things to do in Kalamata, you’ve got masses to choose from. You’ll get a real feel for traditional life too, as it still feels authentically Greek, with its maze of white buildings and terracotta-topped roofs running down to the city’s marina. Whether you’re a foodie, a history buff or a beach lover, there’s plenty to keep you occupied throughout your holidays to Kalamata.

You can spend your time dining in traditional tavernas (don’t forget to try the olives!), exploring museums and ancient sights, or soak up the glorious sunshine down on the beach. And if you feel like heading out beyond the city, you can hire a car and venture out into the region’s mountain range and the foothills of Mount Taygetos.

Steeped in history

The Greeks are full of pride when it comes to their history and the people of Kalamata are no exception. From preserved cities to historical displays, if you’re a culture vulture looking for a holiday with plenty of discovery, Kalamata could be the destination for you. Wander around the museum-lined streets and soak up its charms before arriving at your chosen museum for your chance to delve into history. Pretty paintings, ancient artefacts and military memoirs are just some of what awaits you. Plan a day trip to uncover some of the nearby archaeological sites if you wish to take a look at the ruins.

Typically Greek experiences

Whitewashed buildings with terracotta roof tops, narrow cobbled streets, tavernas serving traditional foods and bustling markets: Kalamata is perfect for those looking for an authentically Greek experience. Whilst you’re in Kalamata, you have to try the olives; you’ll find that they’re served in most of the tavernas and bars as the people of Kalamata are proud of their most famous export. Olive oil is also a Kalamata delicacy and you can pick up a bottle from street markets or at an olive mill.

More Travel Guides

We also have travel guides available for destinations including: Stoupa

Travel to a charming old fishing village perched on Greece’s southern tip, within the Mani peninsula of the Peloponnese for an amazing Stoupa holiday. The lifestyle here is traditional and easy-going, so it’s the perfect place to relax. You’ll find yourself surrounded by stunning natural beauty that’s ready waiting for you to discover, with the beautiful Taygetos Mountains right on your doorstep.

You won’t want to miss out on the beach either; it’s one of the prettiest for miles around. And don’t forget to pay a visit to the historic Byzantine capital of Mystras and the mysterious Diros Caves when you’re ready for an adventure.

Things to do

The peaceful village of Stoupa really comes alive in the summer, when holidays to Stoupa bring in visitors from all over Europe and beyond. You can take your time adjusting to the warm Greek climate down on the unspoilt Stoupa Beach; it’s one of the finest shores in the region, with its gentle curve of sand and crystal-clear waters.

Not only is this a superb place to relax, but it’s also a dream destination for water sports lovers too, with diving and snorkelling just some of the highlights. When you’re feeling up to an adventure, it’s well worth taking a hike through the rolling hills of the Mani peninsula. Or you could plan a daytrip to the UNESCO-protected Mystras, the former Byzantine capital. When you get back here, balmy evenings call for mingling with the locals at welcoming tavernas and restaurants.

The Diros Caves

Stoupa has an air of mystery about it thanks to the magical Diros Caves. These caves can only be reached by boat, which gives you the chance to see the spectacular rock formations that were formed thousands of years ago. Once you arrive inside the caves you’ll be able to read all about the history and even see the perfectly preserved skeletons of the people who once called these caves home.

Traditional Greece

You’ll find great views all over Stoupa, with many areas being completely unspoilt by modern buildings. No matter where you go around the area, you’ll stumble upon quaint villages that still retain all of their rustic charm. Also make sure that you visit a local taverna while you are there to try the world-renowned Kalamata olives that are grown locally in the region.

Fun for all the children

With plenty of fun and excitement all around, Stoupa is a resort perfect for keeping the children occupied. The open-air railway museum at Kalamata gives children a chance to experience what remains of the local history. There are lots of beaches with fun activities for the whole family, such as scuba diving and snorkelling in the calm, blue waters.

More Travel Guides

We also have travel guides available for destinations, including Athens | Corfu | Crete | Halkidiki | Kalamata | Kefalonia | Kos | Lefkas | Lesbos | Mykonos | Olympius Riviera | Parga | Rhodes | Santorini | Skiathos | Skopelos | Thassos | Zante 

Imagine a tumble of colourful houses set against fragrant olive groves and overlooking an idyllic bay; now see it for real! Holidays to Parga are ideal for families and couples looking to enjoy a quiet slice of Greek hospitality. Surrounded by stunning scenery, this is perfect for those who want to soak up the local sights, such as Ali Pasha Castle and the Vlachena Monastery.

However, for dedicated sun-worshippers, Parga is blessed with some Greece’s most beautiful beaches, complete with powder-soft sands and clean, clear, aquamarine waters. While Parga holidays offer a laid-back and tranquil atmosphere, the restaurants and bars along the seafront add a little sparkle as the sun goes down. With plenty to see and do, you can make your holiday to Parga as upbeat or as low-tempo as you want it to be!

Things to do

Start your holiday in Parga with a walk to Ali Pasha castle. This hilltop, Venetian castle is well worth the climb, just for the stunning views across the town. Explorers will also enjoy wandering the cobbled streets of the Old Town, where you can find a variety of shops, bars and tavernas.

If you’re visiting during the summer, you’ll find plenty of beaches on which to get some serious bronzing under your belt. Lychnos Beach offers white sand and clear, turquoise waters, while Valtos Beach is the place to go, if you’re a fan of watersports.

Inviting beaches

With a peaceful atmosphere and slow pace of life, it all starts at the beach in Parga. Wander down to the sandy stretch close to the centre, or head to the longer Valtos Beach and look for a secluded patch for a restful day. Enjoy some warm Mediterranean sunshine and go for a dip in the sparkling sea as you make the most of Parga’s pleasant charms.

Great attractions

When it’s time to explore, there are some great things to keep you occupied away from the beach. Don’t forget to take your camera when you hike to Ali Pasha Castle, which has breathtaking views back down across the region from its hilltop. Discover the area’s ancient mythology, or go on a boat trip to visit other Ionian islands and sail gently alongside leaping dolphins.

Local nightlife

Despite being a peaceful spot, there’s still plenty of life to Parga when it comes to enjoying an
evening out. There’s an array of bars with lovely views out across the town’s bay, while there are places open until the early hours if you want to stay out late. Don’t miss the fresh seafood at a traditional taverna in the harbour, or local specialities like grilled kebabs with tzatziki and sweet
baklava for dessert.

More Travel Guides

We also have travel guides available for destinations, including Athens | Corfu | Crete | Halkidiki | Kalamata | Kefalonia | Kos | Lefkas | Lesbos | Mykonos | Olympius Riviera | Rhodes | Santorini | Skiathos | Skopelos | Thassos | Zante