A treasure of the Peloponnese

A treasure of the Peloponnese

The village glistened in the shining afternoon sun – its’ ancient buildings stood quaintly along paved streets, upstairs balconies shone with the colours of flower-filled pots, national flags flew in the slight breeze and mysterious smells wafted past my nostrils.

I had arrived at my destination following a long, sometime nerve-wrecking but much anticipated journey. This was the beginning of my Big Adventure, a Journey in an unknown culture! It began in Athens days before, but having taken on the tourist sites of this hot, dry, massive historic city I decided to get out. Boarding an antique bus, surrounded by non-English speakers, I headed southwest for the area known as the Peloponnese.

Constituting the southernmost part of mainland Greece, I had not heard much about the area, other than it being a weekend escape for Athenians and home of Olympias’ ancient ruins. With time and an adventurous spirit, I was bound to experience it for myself.

The bus travelled through hilly country, its valleys filled with citrus orchards and olive groves. It astounded me how dry yet how productive. After a few hours, I arrived at my first overnight destination - Nafplio.

The first capital of Greece after Independence, the village struck me as an oasis in a dry land. The village had a magical feel – of history and warmth, charm and yearning to be explored. I was struck by the sight of a high mountain behind town, adorned with a medieval fortress I was determined to explore.

Grabbing my initiative by the horns, I wandered the historic, paved streets, breathing in the atmosphere and capturing memories. The “old town” was most appealing – the main square paved in marble, surrounded by shops and full of grandeur.

A short walk to the town beach found it lined with smooth pebbles, waves crashing on sheer cliffs at one end and views across Argolikos Bay. White sun lounges with blue sun umbrellas lined the beach, families revelled in the clear water.

I found a spectacular area of cafes and restaurants on the waters’ edge. Small boats lined calm waters - they seemed to be placed there for the benefit of my photos! I watched the sun set over the water from the jetty, wondering if there was a better way to end a day.

Starting early the next sunny morning, I made the 999 step trek to the Palamidi fortress behind town – longing to take in the spectacle that was the view from the top. The upward journey was worthwhile, for when I reached the ancient site I was witness to one of the most beautiful views I had ever seen. Across the deep blue waters of the bay were hills behind coastlines dotted with white buildings. The sun was shining, the air clear and I was rewarded with the satisfaction of reaching this historic site.

No visit to Greece should be without a visit to this town – a treasure of the Peloponnese.