Salonica View is organizing a 5-day pilgrimage tour to the Peloponnese and Nea Makri, departing on May 15th, 2025, and returning on May 19th, 2025. The tour includes visits to the Holy Monastery of Saint Ephraim of Nea Makri, the Monastery of Saint John the Baptist in Arcadia, Saint Theodora of Vasta, the Old Monastery of Philosophers in the village of Dimitsanas as well as historical and natural attractions such as Kalavryta and the Cave of the Lakes.
Day 1, Larnaca – Athens – Vytina
Depart from Larnaca by air with a flight to Athens. After arriving at the airport, we will board the bus and head to Vytina. On the way, we will visit the Holy Monastery of Saint Ephraim of Nea Makri. We will then make stops at points of interest, such as Corinth, to enjoy local flavors and beautiful landscapes. Then, after boarding the bus again, we will depart for our final destination, the Vitina House Hotel (https://www.vitinahouse.gr/). After settling into the hotel and rooms, we will have free time to rest.
Day 2, Monastery of the Saint John the Baptist - Saint Theodora Vasta - Old Monastery of the Philosopher
After having breakfast at the hotel, we will visit the Monastery of Saint John the Baptist in Arcadia and then we will go to Saint Theodora Vasta. Then we will go to the village of Dimitsana where we will visit the Old Monastery of the Philosopher. Then we will have free time in the village for lunch and rest. In the afternoon, we will return to our hotel.
Day 3, Kalavryta - Cave of the Lakes - Holy Monastery of Agia Lavra
After breakfast at the hotel, we will depart for our excursion to Kalavryta and a city tour. Then we will visit the Cave of the Lakes and the Holy Monastery of Agia Lavra. Late in the afternoon, we will return to our hotel.
Day 4, Kolokotronis' House - Tripoli - Nafplio
Breakfast at the hotel and we will depart for our visit to Limbovitsi. There we will visit the historic house of Kolokotronis. Then we will have time to tour Tripoli and walk to beautiful Nafplio for rest and food. In the afternoon we will return to our hotel where we will have free time.
Day 5, Vytina – Athens – Larnaca
After breakfast, we depart from the hotel to Athens. Along the way, we will make intermediate stops. Arrival at the airport for the return flight to Larnaca.
Points of interest - A few words:
Holy Monastery of Saint Ephraim of Nea Makri: the Holy Monastery of Saint Ephraim of Nea Makri or Evangelismos of the Virgin Mary, is a women's monastery on Mount Amomi in Attica, founded in the 10th century. It was rebuilt in 1945 by the nun Makaria Desypri, where the relic of Saint Ephraim was found in 1950. It is a great monastery built in an idyllic location, known for the miraculous relic of Saint Ephraim and its spiritual value.
Holy Monastery of Saint John the Baptist: The Holy Monastery of Saint John the Baptist in Arcadia, was built on a rock above the gorge of the Tanos River, was founded in the 8th century, and was a base during the Revolution of 1821. It has impressive architecture with arches, stone stairs, and a wooden carved iconostasis from the 18th century. The monastery celebrates on September 6 and 14 and currently hosts 4 monks.
Church of Saint Theodora of Vasta: The Church of Saint Theodora is located in the village of Vasta in Arcadia. It is built in a verdant ravine, it is known for the 17 oak trees that grow on its roof without visible roots. According to tradition, Saint Theodora was martyred at this point and her prayer to God created this miraculous phenomenon. The Byzantine-era church attracts thousands of pilgrims annually and celebrates on September 11th.
Holy Monastery of Philosopher: The Holy Monastery of Philosopher, also known as the “Hidden School” of Arcadia, is the oldest church in the region, built in 963 AD in a cave above the Lousios ravine. It was a center of education during the Ottoman period and produced important ecclesiastical figures, such as Gregory V. The iconostasis of the new monastery is wood-carved with icons in the Cretan style.
Kalavryta: Kalavryta, built at the foot of Mount Chelmos at an altitude of 735 meters, is known for its historical importance. The Greek Revolution was declared in Agia Lavra in 1821, while the city is deeply marked by the memory of the tragic massacre of 1943 by German troops. They offer unique beauty, traditional architecture, the historical Kalavryta Holocaust Museum, and the impressive Diakopto-Kalavryta cogwheel railway.
Cave of the Lakes: The Cave of the Lakes, located near the village of Kastria, is one of the rarest geological creations, with impressive stalactites and multi-level lakes.
Holy Monastery of Agia Lavra: The Holy Monastery of Agia Lavra, located near Kalavryta, was founded in 961 AD and is known as the place where the Greek Revolution of 1821 was declared.
It has important sacred relics, such as the banner of the Revolution, vestments, and holy relics. The monastery, although it suffered destruction, was restored and remains a symbol of struggle and faith.
Limovitsi: the village of Theodoros Kolokotronis, is located in Mainalo at an altitude of 1,200 meters, surrounded by fir trees and ravines. Although uninhabited today, its historical importance and natural beauty make it an ideal destination for visitors. Its location and its connection with the “The Elder of Morea” offers an authentic experience in the heart of mountainous Arcadia.
Participation fee (per person):
Accommodation in a double room: 690€
Accommodation in a single room: 880€-> (Limited number of available rooms)
Deposit: a deposit of 250€ per person is required within 4 days of your reservation.
ATTENTION!!! The payment of the deposit is made to the bank accounts below within 4 days of your reservation. Otherwise, the reservation will be canceled.
• BANK OF CYPRUS: CY95 0020 0195 0000 3570 3249 2261 or through the quick pay bank of Cyprus service at 99251074 (Beneficiary: Andreas Tsangaris)
• HELLENIC BANK LTD: CY44 0050 0347 0003 4710 F293 4801 (Beneficiary: Andreas Tsangaris)
The price includes:
1) Organization and escort from our office
2) Airfare and airport taxes
3) All transfers (from airport to hotel-hotel to airport but also all transfers during our excursion)
4) 4 nights accommodation at Vitina House Hotel in double rooms (minimum number for single and triple rooms rooms)
5) Luggage: one hand luggage of 8 kg + one personal item, and one checked luggage of 20 kg
5) Breakfast at the hotel daily
The price does not include:
1. Food in the taverns, where each participant will pay separately.
2. What is not listed in the program
Note 1. When you click to make a reservation, indicate the type of room (single, double, triple) you want and we will inform you of availability.
Note 2. For the best operation of the event and for safety reasons, participants must comply with the instructions of the attendants.
Note 3. Photographic material is shared on our page and on social media after each event. By participating in a Salonica View event, you accept the sharing of photos. Otherwise, please inform us.
Note 4. Cancellation Policy: In case of cancellation less than 48 hours before the event or a no-show, you will be required to cover the full cost of your participation. This policy applies to cover operating expenses and reservations that have already been made.
