THE VILLAGE
ODONTOTOS
The trademark of Kalavryta is its small train, the “Odontotos” , a rare example of a fully functional cog railway. Its 22 km journey from Kalavryta to Diakofto is one of the most spectacular rack & pinion rail trips! The narrow gauge tracks follow the Vouraikos River through tunnels, over water-falls, along cliffs and through forests of pine and oleander.
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One of the most beautiful natural sights in Greece and among the most beautiful train trips in Balkans.
The historic town of Kalavryta is one of the most exciting destination of Peloponnese, built on the slopes of Mt. Helmos! A dreamy setting with picturesque squares, stone-paved streets and cute little houses welcomes the romantic souls!
Event though small, the village of Kalavrita is full of life : traditional tavernas, modern bars & restaurants, as well as the local market and shops with traditional & local products are there to welcome you 7/7.
THE REGION
SIGHT-SEEING
NATURE
SPORTS
History Lover's beware as the region's history will impress you!
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The history of the region dates back in ancient Greece. Known initially as Kynaetha, Kalavryta was recorded in history for the first time in 776 B.C with the name Kynaetha, showing the love of the inhabitants for hunting. Today you can various archeological sites with the remain of the ancient "polis".
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Kalavrita is also one of the most significant places in modern Greek history, directly associated with the notions of Revolution, Freedom and Nation. It is in Kalavrita, in the famous Monastery of Agia Lavra where the Greek revolution against the Ottoman Empire was launched in 1821. It’s here that Germanos, archbishop of Patras, raised the standard of revolt. It's here that The Flag of the War of Independence was first held and is still exhibited, unquestionably the most important relic that Greek nation has.
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Kalavrita is also one of the most important places of the Greek resistance against teh Nazis and a place where one of the cruelest atrocities of the World War II in Europe took Place. In 1943 German occupying troops murdered all male popylation over the age of 14 and burned the town. Visit the memorial built to honor the dead as well as the Municipal Museum od the Holocaust of Kalavrita where you can see exhibits related to the history and traditions of the town.​
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Don’t miss the awe-inspiring Monastery of Mega Spileon (Monastery of the Great Cavern) built in a giant cave and admire its wonderful frescoes and mosaic floors;
The nature of the region is impressive all year long and is an absolute diamond collection for nature lovers.
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Mountain Chelmos and the Gorge of Vouraikos have been declared as National Parks, after a decision of the Greek Minister of Spatial Planning and Environment. The decision has already been signed and it was based on the rare flora and fauna of this area that surrrounds the lovely town of Kalavryta Peloponnese. The National Park Chelmos-Vouraikos extends for 544,000 sq. m. and it distinguishes for its unique biodiversity. In fact, 17 of the animal species living there are included in the Red Book with the endangered species in Greece. Moreover, 21 species of raptors have been detected in this vast area, which is crossed by frequent trekking trails and constitutes a shore for nature lovers. This area also has a mythological background as the famous waterfall of Chelmos was dedicated to goddess Stynx in the ancient times and it was believed that the waters of this fall were reaching Hades, the kingdom of the dead.
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​Explore the Cave of the Lakes, a true wonder of nature whose walls are ornamented with colourful stalagmite and stalactite formations. It is a rare creation of Nature that creates awe, rapture and admiration to its visitors. Apart from its labyrinth of corridors, its mysterious galleries and its strange stalactite formations, the “Cave of the Lakes” has something exclusively unique that does not exist in other well known caves. Inside the cave there is a string of cascading lakes forming three different levels that establish its uniqueness in the world
Winter sport enthusiasts should definitely go to the Kalavryta Ski Center, one of the most renowned in Greece thanks to its modern facilities: 7 lifts, 12 slaloms, a snowboard park, a special slalom mogul and a snow tubing park! On its premises there are fancy cafeterias and restaurants where occasionally fun parties take place!
Need more adrenaline rush? In the vicinity of Kalavryta you can follow hiking trails, hike down the Vouraikos gorge, go mountaineering, climbing, off-road driving, mountain biking, horse riding and parachuting!
SPA
In Collaboration wih our partners you can now enjoy full spa prices downtown with incredible price offers. An indoor pool in the perfect temperature all year long , a private sauna and a gym awaits for you to relax or stay fit.