Hidden Gems of Greece

One of the most photogenic towns on the Greek mainland, Nafplio is tucked into a bay along the northeast coast of the Peloponnese peninsula. Despite being just a two-hour drive from Athens, many skip it, heading straight for the islands, but it offers beautiful, soft white sandy beaches that edge clear turquoise water like Karathona, hidden behind the rock of Palamidi. There’s lots of history to explore, with the charming streets lined with buildings in various architectural styles, including Venetian, Ottoman, and Byzantine. Don’t miss Palamidi Fortress; by climbing to the top you’ll enjoy a panoramic view of the gulf. Learn more about the area in the Nafplio Archaeological Museum with artifacts tracing the development of Argolis to the Mycenaean era.

Ancient Olympia is the top site in the Peloponnese, the place where the first Olympic Games were held every four years starting in 776 BC and enduring over a millennia. The flame for today’s modern Olympic Games is still lit here today using the reflection of the sunlight in a parabolic mirror. While multiple earthquakes and the call for destruction by Roman Emperor Theodosius means there aren’t many ruins that can still be seen although foundations, columns, and steps are still visible. That makes it best explored on a Croatia private tour which will bring it all to life. After exploring, don’t miss a visit to the Olympia Archaeological Museum, which displays many finds from the site, including the world’s first “laptop.”

The hooked-shape Pelion Peninsula is located between the Pagasetic Gulf and the Aegean Sea in northern Greece. Part of Thessaly, it’s just above the city of Volos and dominated by the Mount Pelion Mountains. There are many idyllic beaches, including secluded stretches and more lively spots. Fakistra has been called one of the world’s most beautiful, accessed via a 10-minute hike. Damouchari offers clear waters perfect for swimming without the crowds, while Mylopotamos is surrounded by lush cliffs, made up of three smaller beaches that are interconnected. The waters that surround the peninsula are ideal for sailing and you’ll find affordable sailboat rentals here. Seafood lovers will find plenty, including boats selling their fresh catch right off the boat.

The Zagori Villages are made up of 46 fairytale-like villages in the mountainous region of Epirus in northwestern Greece. A UNESCO World Heritage Site, these ancient settlements with their impressive stone mansions are nestled into deep forests, limestone gorges, and craggy mountains, all linked by a network of bridges and stone steps. While they were once frequently used for moving between the village until the modern road network opened, today they make for outstanding scenic hiking trails. Here the silence is only broken by the wind rustling through the trees or the flowing of a river. You’re likely to see more birds than you are humans, with 120 different species, including raptors. Brown bears, lynxes, otters, and foxes can be spotted too.

The Byzantine City of Mystras is an archeological site at the classic fortified city of Mystras. Set on the steep slopes of Mount Taygetos, it was built in amphitheatrical style during the mid-13th century and was the second most important after only Constantinople during the later years of the Byzantine era. Today it offers a trip back in time before the opulent palace was abandoned. Surrounded by orange and olive trees, there’s an imposing fortress at the highest point while seven medieval churches are connected by a descending series of arches and staircases. The Pantanassa Monastery is still occupied today, with the few nuns that remain in order to tend the garden and feed feral cats. Inside are rare frescoes.

The Mani Peninsula is the middle of the “three” fingers of the Peloponnese Peninsula, extending southward. Despite a seemingly inhospitable, barren landscape with cliffs that plunge straight into the sea, you’ll find lots of natural beauty with secluded coves and beautiful blue water. One of the top attractions is the Caves of Diros, known for their beautiful stalagmites and stalactites. Mani’s most iconic feature is its tower houses, tall stone structures that once served as fortifications to help defend the island and its residents during the Byzantine and Ottoman eras. The small traditional hilltop village of Vatheia is dominated by the typical tower houses, some of which have been restored, helping to bring the past to life.

Karpathos is the second largest island in the Dodecanese though it’s often skipped by tourists. That just makes it better for everyone else, especially those who would prefer to avoid the crowds. It has kind of an old-fashioned atmosphere, in fact, in the mountainous and remote village of Olympos, the women still wear the traditional dress. It’s fun to stroll the winding alleyways with their pastel-painted homes, inevitably leading to a breathtaking view. Near the windmills, you’ll find traditional tavernas and cafes for dining on local fare with a sea view. It’s the place to be at dusk, enjoying sunset cocktails with a dramatic end to nearly every day as brilliant hues are splashed across the sea and the sky.