Peloponnese Yacht Charter Guide

Still a secret of Greece the small peninsula of the Peloponnese is not a heavily cruised area. Escape the crowds and discover the special ambience of this enchanting sailing destination. With a yacht charter in the Peloponnese, you can moor up in historic ports, relax on some of the best sand beaches in Greece, and explore hiking trails through beautiful mountains. The region is the home of legends, filled with the stories of Hercules, Paris of Troy, and the Argonauts and tangible history in the ancient ruins of cities and Ottoman fortresses. The peninsula is a foodies heaven; being cut off by the mountains and gorges means that the region has its own autonomous gastronomic culture. Locals are so passionate about food that they hold a festival to commemorate the summer eggplant harvest. A perfect blend of the best of the good life, the Peloponnese is a truly special destination.

Best Time To Visit: May to September offers the most pleasant weather.

Key Cruising Areas: Circumnavigating the pleated coastline of the peninsula is a lovely cruising trip. Further afield, this is an ideal starting point to sail to the Aegean or Ionian Islands.

Don’t Miss: The cave networks in the Peloponnese intrigue visitors and geologists alike. Take a tour of the caves in Diros where the reflections of amazing rock formations ripple in the water or explore the stalactites and white and red rock cascades of Kastania caves.

Best Spots for Wining and Dining: The pretty port of Gerolimenas has a history built on cuisine, with an economy based on selling quails to French restaurants, and the town retains its passion for gastronomy. Sample the innovative twists on authentic cuisine at the restaurant of the hotel Kyrimai, where the chefs promise an experience like no other, which you will enjoy at sea level, where waves lap the rocks beside you.

Best Local Dish: The food in the Peloponnese is some of the best in Greece. Most of the food is locally sourced, fresh, and brimming with olive oil, lemon, honey, and seasonal vegetables. The seaside town of Kardamili is filled with charming tavernas and cafes – try the meze at Lela’s Taverna for home-cooked food with a stunning sunset view.

Local Culture: The Peloponnese is a place of legends – the home of Agamemnon and the site of Hercules’ fight with the Nemean lions, relics of history and legends can be seen throughout the region. As well as the impressive ancient stadium, Olympia is filled with temples to the gods – visit the ancient ruins of the Temple of Zeus, built in the 5th century BC.

Best Beach: The tiny island of Elafonissos is a little taste of the Caribbean in Greece. White and pink sands, sparkling clear water, and a charming village make this an excellent spot to spend an afternoon.

IYC recommends: For a beautiful afternoon, head inland and hike a section of the Menalon trail in Stemnitsa. Walk alongside streams, across wooden paths that fuse with twisting branches, past ancient stone bridges and a stunning gorge. Stop at the Katholiko Taverna for some well-earned homemade food.