The mountain villages of Arcadia, most of them built on the slopes of Mount Mainalo, are among the country’s most popular winter destinations and were some of the first to develop as such. Their close distance to the Athens metropolitan area played a role, but ease of access alone would not have been enough without the elegant traditional settlements, well-maintained hospitality infrastructure, and a wealth of activities related to nature, culture, and gastronomy.

All this is found in a region that, by the standards of mountainous Greece, has an extensive road network of relatively low difficulty. Winter weekends are ideal for planning a short or longer getaway to Arcadia. Below are four different excursion ideas, each based in an Arcadian village.

Dimitsana: Exploration Through Hiking Trails

Dimitsana, built at an altitude of 946 meters, combines rich history with unparalleled natural beauty. In antiquity, the area was known as Teuthis, and later it developed into an important administrative center of Arcadia. The settlement played a leading role in the Greek War of Independence of 1821, serving as a center for the production and storage of gunpowder used to supply Greek fighters.

Today, it is a designated Traditional Settlement (since 1978), with impressive stone mansions offering breathtaking views of the Megalopolis plain and Mount Taygetos. Highlights include the house of Patriarch Gregory V and the mansion of Kanellos Deligiannis, both carrying centuries of heritage.

Dimitsana is an ideal base for hiking. Located in the heart of mountainous Arcadia, it is surrounded by numerous trails that combine natural beauty with cultural heritage.

Start your hike on the famous Menalon Trail, one of the most beautiful certified trails in Europe. The section connecting Dimitsana with Stemnitsa is excellent for both beginners and experienced hikers. Along the way, you will pass through the Lousios Gorge, where the natural landscape and small Byzantine churches are truly impressive.

Also visit the Open-Air Water Power Museum, where you can see how the power of water was used in traditional crafts and industry. Don’t miss a stop at the Monastery of Philosophou, built into a rock face and offering magnificent views.

If you have time, explore nearby villages such as Stemnitsa and Elliniko. You will discover small, hidden villages that seem to come from another era. End your day with a traditional meal in one of Dimitsana’s taverns, tasting local products such as Arcadian cheese and handmade bread. An excellent dining suggestion is Drymonas, known for its delicious goat or rabbit with olive oil and oregano, and its famous cheese pie.

Vytina: Cycling and Nature Routes

Vytina, built on the slopes of Mount Mainalo at an altitude of 1,033 meters, is known for its healthy climate and excellent tourist infrastructure. The Church of Saint Tryphon, built in 1846 from the region’s famous marble, dominates the central square and is a landmark for visitors. In the same square, the statue of Mathios Potagas honors the memory of the local hero executed by the Nazis.

Vytina is also famous for its gastronomy and local products, while its narrow streets host traditional bakeries and charming cafés. Each season highlights different aspects of its beauty, making it an ideal year-round destination. It is especially well suited for cycling excursions. Surrounded by forests of black pine and fir trees, it is a paradise for cycling and nature lovers.

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Follow the route toward the Mainalo Forest, where you will find marked cycling paths running through lush landscapes. A popular option is the route from Vytina to the village of Elati, an easy yet impressive ride offering panoramic views of mountain peaks.

Vytina is also perfect for leisurely strolls through its alleys. Love Street (Odos tis Agapis), a tree-covered path, is ideal for romantic walks.

If you are a food lover, stop by local bakeries to taste the famous Arcadian hilopites (traditional pasta). You can also visit nearby vineyards and enjoy wine tasting featuring local grape varieties.

Stemnitsa: Experiences in Traditional Craftsmanship

Stemnitsa is inextricably linked with the art of silversmithing and goldsmithing, whose roots go back centuries. Its reputation began during the Ottoman period, when residents developed exceptional skill in creating jewelry and ecclesiastical objects. Thanks to the region’s rich metal resources and the need to produce small, valuable items that were easy to transport, this craft flourished.

After the Greek Revolution, silversmithing developed further and became a central element of the local economy and identity. Today, the Silversmithing School of Stemnitsa, operating since 1976, keeps the tradition alive by training new craftsmen and promoting local artistry internationally. In the village’s narrow streets, visitors can find workshops displaying and selling unique creations, maintaining Stemnitsa as an important center of handicraft. It is also worth visiting the Folk Art Museum to learn about the history and techniques of traditional craftsmanship.

Stemnitsa is also a starting point for adventures in the Lousios Gorge. A short hike will lead you to waterfalls and small chapels hidden in nature. If you are looking for more action, you can try rafting on the Lousios River, an exciting activity that combines adventure with stunning scenery.

At the end of the day, enjoy local cuisine in one of the village’s traditional taverns. Try pork with orange and warm pies made from local recipes.

A Journey Through Time in Karytaina

Karytaina enchants visitors with its medieval atmosphere and impressive castle, which towers above the village. The castle was built in the 13th century by Geoffrey de Briel and served as a key stronghold during both the Frankish and Ottoman periods due to its strategic location.

It provided security to western Arcadia and functioned as a regional control center. Today, although not fully accessible due to restoration work, the ascent to the Church of Panagia of the Castle offers unique views and a deep sense of the area’s history.

Discover the beauty of the surrounding region through horseback riding. Organized equestrian centers offer routes for all levels of experience. Riding through forests and along the river, you will enjoy an experience that brings you into complete contact with nature.

In Karytaina, wander through the settlement and admire its architecture. Walk to the old Karytaina Bridge, an impressive work of medieval engineering, and hear the stories that connect it to the Greek War of Independence of 1821. This structure was once depicted on the 5,000-drachma banknote.

Complete your experience with a visit to the nearby Temple of Apollo Epicurius, one of Greece’s most important archaeological monuments, located about one hour from Karytaina. To reach it, you will drive along the road connecting Karytaina with Andritsaina—one of the most beautiful routes in Greece.

The Temple of Apollo Epicurius is among the most impressive ancient temples in Greece, designed by Ictinus, the architect of the Parthenon. It harmoniously combines Doric, Ionic, and Corinthian architectural styles and is dedicated to Apollo as the god of healing. Recognized by UNESCO as a World Heritage Monument, it is a landmark for those who love archaeology and history.