A kids-friendly adventure at the gorge of Polylimnio waterfalls, with splish-splash swims in the waterfalls and picnic lunch
The place
The gorge of Polylimnio waterfalls is a paradise on earth and one of the hidden gems of the Peloponnese. Polylimnio means many lakes and this is exactly what you discover. There are numerous freshwater lakes on many levels with aqua blue waters created by spectacular waterfalls. Water flows from one lake to another and the hiker can cross the gorge through a clear path, small bridges, and metal aiding handles.
The activity
We meet at the Polylimnio parking near the village of Haravgi where our hike starts towards the gorge. We walk into a magical but real natural paradise passing along lakes and spectacular waterfalls. Our hike will take up to two hours and it is suitable for kids as there is no significant altitude difference. As you hike through the gorge, you will be greeted with a breathtaking view at every turn. The aqua-blue waters of the lakes are mesmerizing, and the waterfalls echoing through the canyon are truly magical. Your guide will take you to even more lakes that a few people know about.
These hidden lakes offer a peaceful and secluded spot for swimming or taking a break from hiking. Swimming into the lakes is optional however, a swim into the lake and under the waterfall will be refreshing and the perfect reward. At the end of the hike, you will enjoy a hearty picnic with traditional local delicacies and relax by one of the lakes.
Meeting time: 9:30 a.m.
Meeting point: Haravgi village, Polylimnio parking area.
Duration: 3 hours including breaks
Difficulty: Very easy
Suitability: Family friendly, Group friendly, Couples, Youth, Kids over 8 years old.
Know before you book for Hiking Polylimnio Waterfalls
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
– Helmet
– Tour planning
– Picnic with local products
– Photographs from the tour
– 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 (please bring your full bottle of water)
– Swimwear (optional)
– Hat
– Sunscreen
– Hiking shoes or trainers (Open shoes, sandals or flip-flops are unsuitable)
– Hiking backpack (if available)
Do I need previous experience?
No, many of our customers are first-timers. This 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 8 years old 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 to smaller groups on private trips.
What is the trip best suited for me, and how do I choose?
All of our trips are designed to be suitable for everybody. Each one has its 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 Polylimnio Waterfalls or the trip you want to participate in.
SUSTAINABILITY
At Explore Messinia, we are dedicated to promoting sustainable tourism and safeguarding the natural splendour of the landscape for future generations. Our hiking tours reflect this commitment to environmental stewardship in several significant ways. By navigating on foot, we eliminate the need for fossil fuels, ensuring a minimal carbon footprint and a quiet, eco-friendly exploration of the region.
We strongly encourage all participants to bring a reusable water bottle to reduce the dependence on plastic throwaways. Staying hydrated is essential, but it doesn’t have to come at the cost of our planet’s health. Refillable bottles can be topped up before the hike to ensure you have sufficient water for the journey.
Our commitment to sustainability goes beyond equipment and personal habits. We weave environmental stewardship into our hiking tours. Guides will provide space and bags for small clean-ups during the trek, encouraging participants to help maintain and enhance the condition of the trails and natural areas we visit. We ask everyone to collect any plastic or other debris encountered along the way, ensuring that we leave the locations better than we found them.
By adhering to these sustainable practices, together we can ensure that the magnificent landscapes we explore remain pristine and that our hiking experiences continue to be environmentally friendly and enriching for every participant.
You can read more about our Sustainability Policy and Code of Conduct here.
