A guided half day hike in the cobble paths around Kardamyli discovering the cultural heritage of Mani.
The place
Land of stone and light, villages perched on the outskirts of Mount Taygetos with tower houses and countless chapels. Settlements bordering the sea, steep canyons and caves, and beaches entangled with olive groves. The charm of Mani is these contrasts. Here, every stone has its history. Here, the magnificence of the mountainous nature is harmoniously combined with the allure of the sea as Mount Taygetos is so close to the embrace of the Mediterranean. Hiking Kardamyli is the way to explore this wild and beautiful area.
The activity
Starting our hike from the fort of old Kardamyli we follow the trail of the ancient so-called ‘’royal street’’ connecting Kardamyli with Sparta during ancient years. We walk on a pathway immersed in olive trees, pines, and cypress trees. We visit some of the traditional villages of the region, we walk through their narrow streets and alleys learning about their history. Byzantine churches, stone-built watchtowers, old fountains, and olive and grain mills reveal the life of locals in the past. A blast of colors and aromas from wildflowers and herbs overwhelm us and bring us even closer to the natural environment. Just a breath away, mount Taygetos with its imposing peaks. A small break for a healthy picnic with traditional local delicacies gives us additional energy.
Meeting time: 9:30 a.m.
Meeting point: Kardamyli square.
Duration: 5 hours including breaks
Difficulty: Easy, a few challenging parts
Suitability: Family friendly, Group friendly, Couples, Youth, Kids over 10 years old
Know before you book for Hiking Kardamyli
Activity requirements:
– A minimum number of 4 participants is required for this activity to take place.
– No previous experience is required
– Good physical and mental condition
– Parental accompaniment is required for minors to take part in this activity.
– A written waiver form is compulsory to be filled in before taking part in this activity.
Includes:
– Local mountain guide
– Tour planning
– Picnic with local products
– Photographs from the tour
– Liability insurance
– All taxes
Excludes:
– Transfer to meeting point
– Tip or gratuity
Upgrades and discounts:
Private trips available.
Discounts available for families and kids.
Hotel pick up / drop off upon request.
Cancelations:
We reserve the right to modify or cancel any outdoor activity due to bad weather or any other reason beyond our control.
See our terms and conditions
Know before you go
What to bring with you:
– Bottle of water
– Hat
– Sun screen
– Hiking shoes or trainers (Open shoes, sandals or flip-flops are unsuitable)
– Hiking backpack (if available)
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need previous experience?
No, many of our customers are first-timers. The Hiking Kardamyli trip is easy to catch up and beginners can complete a decent journey on their first-time hiking trip. All of our trips are about journeying. We walk at a relaxed pace; we learn on the move and enjoy the natural environment. If you are a group of experienced hikers wanting to complete a demanding journey then a private trip would be the best option.
Is this hiking trip suitable for families with kids?
Absolutely Yes! A hiking trip is a wonderful way for your child to explore the outdoors. There are so many reasons to love a hiking trip with kids. Watching them gain confidence when outdoors, gives them the chance to see places from a different perspective, teaching them about the natural environment.
What is the minimum age for a kid to join this hiking trip?
Kids from 10 may join a standard group trip or a private trip. We always walk with kids at a relaxed pace allowing them to learn and have fun.
What kind of fitness level do I need to take part?
Relatively good physical condition is required. Keep in mind that the most important thing is to have fun and enjoy the journey. We’ll take plenty of breaks and walk at an achievable pace.
What is the size of a group?
From 4 participants up to 12 people on our standard group trips. Most of our groups consist of couples, families, and individuals. We can also cater smaller groups on private trips.
What is the trip best suited for me, how do I choose?
All of our trips are designed to be suitable for everybody. Each one has its own unique characteristics. The best way to choose a trip among others is to check which one departs closer to the place you are staying.
Do you offer private trips?
Yes, we can organize a private tour, standard or tailor-made, just for you, your family or your friends.
Should I book a standard trip or a private trip?
If you are happy to hike with a mixed group or don’t want to spend as much money then booking a standard group trip is the best way to go. Private trips really work best with groups of experienced hikers or groups of friends who want to do something a bit different, would like to do a more advanced journey or just want to have privacy and enjoy the trip just themselves.
Is lunch provided?
Yes, simple, nutritious and flavorsome, the food is one of the pleasures during our trips. Halfway we make a relaxing stop at a nice place to taste a picnic with freshly baked bread, organic garden-grown fruits and vegetables, homemade olive oil, and cheese.
What route will we take?
We usually perform our tours within a certain route aiming to visit the most beautiful spots each trip has to offer however; your guide is likely to choose an alternative route that suits the conditions on the day and the experience and needs of the group. This is the safest and best way to operate hiking trips.
Where do I park my car?
You can park your vehicle safely and for free near our meeting point. Feel free to ask us about parking conditions for a specific trip.
What happens if the weather is unsuitable?
A hiking trip is either canceled and we return your money or arranged for another day.
How can I book a trip?
You can fill up the online booking form for Hiking Kardamyli or the trip you wish to participate.
