Exploring the Peaks of Mount Taygetos: An 11-Day Greek Adventure

Reaching for the Heavens in Taygetos

Today was the day! The day Greta and I tackled the highest peak of Mount Taygetos, Prophet Elias. It was a challenging but incredibly rewarding experience, filled with stunning views, natural beauty, and delicious Greek food. This adventure tested our limits and filled our hearts with awe.

Our day began with an early start at the Panorama Restaurant for breakfast. The name didn't lie; the views were breathtaking. I enjoyed a hearty Greek yogurt with honey and fresh fruit, while Greta opted for a traditional spinach pie. Fuelled up and ready, we set off towards our main goal: the summit of Prophet Elias.


Discover exquisite Greek cuisine with breathtaking views at Panorama Restaurant in Lefktro - a must-visit dining destination.

The drive to the trailhead at Manganiari Spring was scenic, winding through lush forests. As we gained altitude, the air became noticeably cooler, a welcome change from the August heat. We parked the car and took a moment to double-check our gear. I was particularly grateful for my trusty hiking boots, a definite essential from our packing list. I did, however, have a mental note to buy some insect repellent when we got back to civilization. The little critters were out in force!


Discover the tranquil beauty and hiking adventures at Manganiari Spring in Greece's Peloponnese, perfect for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts.

The trail from Manganiari Spring to the Taygetos Refuge was a steady climb. The path wound through a beautiful forest of fir and pine trees, offering shade and respite from the sun. We passed several other hikers along the way, exchanging smiles and words of encouragement. The camaraderie of fellow adventurers is always uplifting. It took us about two hours to reach the refuge, a charming spot with basic facilities and stunning views.

The mountains are calling and I must go.

After a brief rest at the refuge, we began our ascent to Prophet Elias. The trail became steeper and rockier, testing our endurance. Patches of loose gravel made the climb a bit treacherous, requiring careful footing. But the views… oh, the views! With each step, the panorama expanded, revealing the rugged beauty of the Taygetos range and the distant Messinian Gulf.

As we neared the summit, we could see the small chapel of Prophet Elias perched atop the peak. A sense of anticipation and excitement washed over us. We pushed on, our determination fueled by the promise of reaching the top. Finally, after what felt like an eternity, we arrived! Standing at 2,407 meters (7,897 feet), we were on the highest point of the Peloponnese.

The view from the summit was simply spectacular. We could see for miles in every direction, from the sparkling blue waters of the Aegean Sea to the rolling hills of the Peloponnese. The air was crisp and clean, and a gentle breeze carried the scent of pine and wildflowers. We took some time to soak it all in, snapping photos and simply enjoying the moment. I even managed to capture a panoramic shot that I know I'll be framing when we get back home.

According to local legends, Mount Taygetos is named after the nymph Taygete, a follower of Artemis. It's easy to see why this place is steeped in mythology; there's something truly magical about it. Standing on the summit, I felt a sense of accomplishment and connection to nature that I'll never forget.

The descent was challenging but manageable. We took our time, carefully navigating the rocky terrain. Back at Manganiari Spring, we refilled our water bottles and rested for a few minutes, savoring the cool, refreshing water. Before heading back, we found a better camping spot in the forest above the road, right before a small creek running across.

With the hike behind us, it was time to indulge in some well-deserved Greek cuisine. We drove to a restaurant called Frigano for lunch. I opted for the fresh seafood, while Greta chose a traditional moussaka. The food was delicious and satisfying, the perfect reward after a long day of hiking.


Discover Frigano in Stoupa - where Mediterranean flavors meet stunning views for an unforgettable dining experience.

After lunch, we decided to explore a bit of local culture. We stopped at The Olive Shop, a charming store in Kardamili. As someone interested in sustainable living, I was fascinated by the traditional methods used to produce the olive oil. We sampled a few different varieties, each with its unique flavor profile. We ended up buying a bottle of extra virgin olive oil to take back home with us, a flavorful reminder of our Greek adventure. I also picked up some locally sourced oregano, knowing it would add a touch of Taygetos to my cooking back in Heidelberg.


Experience the authentic taste of Greece with premium olive oils and natural products at The Olive Shop in Kardamili.

For dinner, we chose H Αυλή της Γιωργίτσας / Yioryitsa’s Backyard, a restaurant known for its authentic Greek dishes and charming atmosphere. The outdoor seating area was enchanting, surrounded by lush greenery and beautiful landscapes. We enjoyed a leisurely meal, savoring the flavors of Greece and reminiscing about our day on the mountain. The restaurant had a unique vibe, and the owners made us feel like we were visiting family.


Experience authentic Greek cuisine and vibrant atmosphere at Yioryitsa's Backyard in West Mani.

As the day drew to a close, we felt a deep sense of satisfaction. We had conquered Mount Taygetos, discovered hidden springs, and savored the local flavors of Greece. It was a day of adventure, beauty, and culinary delight. It’s evenings like these that make me so grateful that Greta and I decided to embark on this adventure together. I wouldn’t trade these memories for anything.

Tomorrow, we plan to explore the Gorge of Ridomo and the Lagada-Taygetos Rock-Tunnel 2, followed (hopefully) by a relaxing cocktail at Mon cheri cocktail bar [see tomorrow's itinerary]. I'm already looking forward to another day of adventure in this beautiful corner of Greece.

For now, though, it's time to rest and recharge for another day of exploring the wonders of Mount Taygetos. Goodnight from Greece!