A Tranquil Escape to Nafplio's Historical Charm

A Symphony of Nature and History

Today, Elke and I embarked on a journey that intertwined the tranquility of nature with the echoes of ancient history. It was a day of contrasts, from the serene wetlands teeming with life to the formidable heights of a historic fortress. These are the days that truly enrich the soul, offering a deeper connection to the land and its stories.



Our day began with a delightful breakfast at The Corner of Kavalaris. This charming spot, nestled near Syntagma Square, was the perfect place to start our day.

The Corner of Kavalaris is known for its exquisite small plates. We savored a selection of local and Mediterranean dishes, each bursting with fresh, vibrant flavors. The atmosphere was warm and inviting, making it a wonderful start to our explorations.

After breakfast, we set out for the Naplio-Nea Kios Wetlands. It was a short drive from Nafplio, and as we approached, the landscape transformed into a haven of serene beauty. The wetlands are a vital ecosystem, providing refuge for a diverse array of bird species. I was particularly excited, as I had read that the area is known for migratory flamingos, which occasionally stop here on their journey between the Arab peninsula and Africa.


Discover the serene Naplio-Nea Kios Wetlands, a nature preserve rich in wildlife and natural beauty, just outside Nafplio, Greece.

Sometimes, the most profound experiences are found in the quiet corners of the world, where nature whispers its secrets to those who listen.

As we strolled along the paths, we were greeted by the sight of numerous bird species. I managed to capture some photographs of the local wildlife. Elke was particularly thrilled to spot a few elegant grey herons wading gracefully through the shallow waters. I was hoping to catch a glimpse of the migratory flamingos that sometimes visit the wetlands, but unfortunately, they weren't there today. However, the sheer variety of birdlife made the visit worthwhile. We spent a peaceful morning observing nature, and I even managed to sketch some of the birds in my notebook.

Leaving the wetlands, we drove back towards Nafplio, our destination now the Palamidi Path. This hiking trail leads to the Palamidi Fortress, a Venetian castle that dominates the city's skyline. The fortress was built in the 18th century and played a significant role in the Greek War of Independence. I had read about the famous 999 steps (though there are actually 857) leading to the top, and I was eager to test my stamina.


Experience the breathtaking views and serene atmosphere of Palamidi Path, Nafplio's enchanting promenade for unforgettable strolls and photography.

Before embarking on our ascent, we stopped for lunch at Savouras, a family-run restaurant with a history dating back to 1841. The restaurant is located on Boumpoulinas Street, offering a beautiful view of the marina. We sat at an outdoor table, enjoying the sea breeze and the bustling atmosphere of the waterfront. Elke and I shared a selection of seafood dishes, including grilled octopus and fresh calamari. The food was delicious, and the portions were generous. It was the perfect meal to fuel our upcoming climb.


Experience authentic Greek seafood at Savouras in Nafplio, where fresh flavors meet stunning waterfront views.

With renewed energy, we began our ascent of the Palamidi Path. The path is well-maintained but steep, winding its way up the hill. As we climbed, we were rewarded with breathtaking views of Nafplio, the Argolic Gulf, and the surrounding countryside. The wildflowers and aromatic herbs lining the trail added to the sensory experience, filling the air with their fragrant scents. We paused frequently to catch our breath and admire the scenery. The climb was challenging, but the views made every step worthwhile.

Reaching the summit, we entered the Palamidi Fortress. The fortress is an impressive structure, with walls stretching for over a mile and towers rising high into the sky. We explored the various bastions, each named after ancient heroes and saints. The fortress has a rich history, having been controlled by the Venetians, the Ottomans, and the Greeks. It served as a prison during the reign of King Othon, and Theodoros Kolokotronis, a hero of the Greek War of Independence, was imprisoned here for 11 months.

As we walked through the fortress, I imagined the soldiers who once defended these walls, the battles that were fought here, and the countless stories that unfolded within its confines. The panoramic views from the top were simply stunning. We could see the entire city of Nafplio spread out below us, the island of Bourtzi in the harbor, and the distant mountains in the Peloponnese. It was a truly awe-inspiring sight.

After spending several hours exploring the fortress, we began our descent. The walk down was much easier, and we took our time, savoring the views and the pleasant evening air. Back in Nafplio, we decided to treat ourselves to cocktails at YDRAGOGIO Cocktail-Bar. This stylish bar is known for its expertly crafted cocktails and lively atmosphere. We sat at an outdoor table, enjoying the cool evening breeze and the vibrant energy of the city. I ordered a Negroni, while Elke opted for a fruity concoction with local flavors. The drinks were delicious, and the ambiance was perfect for unwinding after a day of exploration.


Experience the vibrant nightlife at YDRAGOGIO Cocktail-Bar in Nafplio, where expertly crafted cocktails meet a lively atmosphere.

As we sipped our cocktails, we reflected on the day's adventures. We had experienced the tranquility of nature, the challenge of the Palamidi Path, and the rich history of the Palamidi Fortress. It was a day that had touched our souls and deepened our appreciation for the beauty and history of Nafplio. I am already looking forward to tomorrow's adventure to Acrocorinth and the Archaeological Museum of Ancient Corinth. We plan to start our day with breakfast at Zournal, followed by a journey into the past as we explore these ancient sites.

Before heading back to Amfitriti Palazzo, we enjoyed a delightful dinner at Il Porto. This charming restaurant is known for its authentic Italian flavors and cozy atmosphere. We shared a delicious pizza and a bottle of local wine, savoring the flavors of Italy in the heart of Greece. The perfect end to a perfect day.


Experience authentic Italian flavors at Il Porto in Nafplio – where every dish tells a story of tradition and passion.

As I sit here now, zither in hand, recounting our day, I am filled with a sense of contentment. Elke is already asleep, dreaming of tomorrow's explorations. I, however, am still savoring the memories of today, the serene wetlands, the challenging path, and the ancient fortress. These are the moments that make travel so rewarding, the chance to connect with nature, history, and each other.