Night 1
Guesthouse in Stemnitsa
Enjoy Stemnitsa to get acquainted with Greece on your first night. A guesthouse will be chosen based on availability.
The Menalon Trail Pilgrimage Tour
Prices
Highlights
Hike one of the best trails in Europe on this week-long self-guided tour
During the weeklong Menalon Trail Pilgrimage Tour, you’ll be experiencing a slice of Greek history. The goal is to walk one of the Leading Quality Trails in Europe. You may not expect woodsy and forested scenes in Greece, but some of these mountain towns even see snow during winter. This tour leads travellers down a remote path where you may not see other humans for hours. If you’re looking for a pilgrimage to clear your head, look no further than this 7-day self-guided tour. The walks will challenge you on some days but know that you have comfortable accommodation waiting for you each night.
Each mountain village you stay in will impress you as soon as you arrive—you’ll have a tough time picking a favourite as each is more charming than the last! The Peloponnese Peninsula comprises forests, mountains, gorges, rivers, and so many villages with old stone buildings. You’ll think you flew into a Greek storybook. By choosing this tour, you are supporting Menalon Trail maintenance and care, and you’ll receive a t-shirt as a souvenir. What are you waiting for?
The Menalon Trail Pilgrimage Tour Itinerary
Day 1 Arrive in Stemnitsa
After arriving in Athens, you will find your way to the central square in Stemnitsa, a stunning village perched in a valley on the Peloponnese Peninsula. When you arrive, you can visit the Menalon info centre in town to get a brief orientation on the week ahead.
Settle into your accommodation and take some time to wander this enchanting village.
- Overnight Location
- Guesthouse in Stemnitsa
- Distance
- None
- Meals
- None
Day 2 Trek Lousios Gorge to Dimitsana
Begin the trek along the Melanon Trail with a zigzag path leading out of Stemnitsa. Take some time and detour to the Prodromos Monastery built into the cliffside near the village. Continue through a gorge, passing two more ancient monasteries. Through aromatic vegetation, you climb the bank of the Lousios River extending to Dimitsana. Cross a bridge, and the Open-Air Water Power Museum will come into view. Near here is Dimitsana, your destination for the night.
- Overnight Location
- Guesthouse in Dimitsana
- Distance
- 5 hours, 12.5km, 830m of ascent, 950m of descent
- Meals
- Breakfast
Day 3 Hike to Elati
Enjoy a lovely breakfast at your guesthouse in Dimitsana before trekking to the next town. On today’s journey, footpaths and dirt roads lead you among wooded landscapes and pastoral scenery. You’ll get spectacular views as you hike up, down, and around the Lousios basin.
Stop for a break in a small hamlet to refuel, then continue to the mountain town of Elati to find your home for the night.
- Overnight Location
- Guesthouse in Elati
- Distance
- 7 hours, 19.1km, 900m of ascent, 690m of descent
- Meals
- Breakfast
Day 4 Trek to Nymfasia
After breakfast, you’ll head for a shorter walk filled with water features, villages, and so many mountain views. Leaving Elati, you’ll head to the Pirgaki Springs with its stone fountains, where you can take a break and splash some water on your face.
Following the path, you’ll walk along the river, into a valley, then up a hill. Midday, you’ll reach a church atop a mountain and get some incredible views of the mountains all around you. The end of the path is marked by a stone bridge and oak and spruce forests, then a descent to Nymfasia, the small village where you’ll sleep tonight.
- Overnight Location
- Guesthouse in Nymfasia
- Distance
- 3 hours, 17.5km, 420m of ascent, 770m of descent
- Meals
- Breakfast
Day 5 Hike via Magouliana to Valtesiniko
Savour breakfast because your day starts with a big climb right off the bat. Hike up to the Kernistsas Monastery amid terraced fields. Follow the ancient, well-marked pathways to Magouliana village, where you can stop for a well-deserved meal in a local tavern.
After lunch, the path opens to incredible views, and you’ll see Valtesiniko in the distance, your destination for this evening. After you arrive, you’ll have a chance to explore this cute village, known for its woodcarvers.
- Overnight Location
- Hotel in Valtesiniko
- Distance
- 6 hours, 15.5km, 780m of ascent, 500m of descent
- Meals
- Breakfast
Day 6 Explore Batsi
Fuel up on breakfast on your last day of this tour. Begin the day walking above Valtesiniko for wonderful views of where you just spent the night, then push on to an open meadow. Highlights today include a Byzantine fortress and a gorgeous church. The second leg of the trail leads through pine forests, ascending and descending, challenging your legs. When you see watermills come into view, you’ll know you are close to your final destination, Lagkadia, where the Menalon Trail ends.
Find your hotel and celebrate your accomplishments with a local brew in a tavern.
- Overnight Location
- Hotel in Lagkadia
- Distance
- 5 hours, 13.9km, 600m of ascent, 780m of descent
- Meals
- Breakfast
Day 7 Departure
Once you’re finished breakfast, you’ll check out of the hotel and the tour comes to an end. Pack up and continue on your way, knowing you just completed a stunning mountain trail across the Peloponnese Peninsula.
- Overnight Location
- None
- Distance
- None
- Meals
- Breakfast
The Menalon Trail Pilgrimage Tour Price and Dates
This self-guided tour in Greece is always run as a private tour for your group and the price depends on the time of year in which you choose to travel, and the room type you prefer.
Prices below are per person:
Departure from January 1st to May 5th:
- Price per person staying in single room (solo traveller): $1,050USD
- Price per person staying in single room (groups of 2 or more): $925USD
- Price per person staying in single room (groups of 3 or more): $875USD
- Price per person staying in double or twin room (groups of 2 or more): $575USD
- Price per person staying in double or twin room (groups of 3 or more): $525USD
- Price per person staying in double or twin room (groups of 4 or more): $495USD
- Price per person staying in triple room (groups of 3 or more): $475USD
- Price per person staying in quadruple room (groups of 4 or more): $425USD
Departure from May 6th to 28th:
- Price per person staying in single room (solo traveller): $975USD
- Price per person staying in single room (groups of 2 or more): $825USD
- Price per person staying in single room (groups of 3 or more): $795USD
- Price per person staying in double or twin room (groups of 2 or more): $525USD
- Price per person staying in double or twin room (groups of 3 or more): $475USD
- Price per person staying in double or twin room (groups of 4 or more): $450USD
- Price per person staying in triple room (groups of 3 or more): $450USD
- Price per person staying in quadruple room (groups of 4 or more): $395USD
Departure from May 29th to September 29th:
- Price per person staying in single room (solo traveller): $925USD
- Price per person staying in single room (groups of 2 or more): $775USD
- Price per person staying in single room (groups of 3 or more): $725USD
- Price per person staying in double or twin room (groups of 2 or more): $525USD
- Price per person staying in double or twin room (groups of 3 or more): $475USD
- Price per person staying in double or twin room (groups of 4 or more): $450USD
- Price per person staying in triple room (groups of 3 or more): $425USD
- Price per person staying in quadruple room (groups of 4 or more): $375USD
Departure from September 30th to December 31st:
- Price per person staying in single room (solo traveller): $1,050USD
- Price per person staying in single room (groups of 2 or more): $925USD
- Price per person staying in single room (groups of 3 or more): $875USD
- Price per person staying in double or twin room (groups of 2 or more): $575USD
- Price per person staying in double or twin room (groups of 3 or more): $525USD
- Price per person staying in double or twin room (groups of 4 or more): $495USD
- Price per person staying in triple room (groups of 3 or more): $475USD
- Price per person staying in quadruple room (groups of 4 or more): $425USD
Accommodation on the Menalon Trail Pilgrimage Tour
This tour is based in traditional guesthouses and 4-star hotels.
In some cases, the accommodation listed below may need to be substituted for other comparable accommodations.
Single Rooms and Solo Travellers
Rooms are double occupancy. If you are a solo traveller or you prefer a single room, the required supplements are included in the listed prices.
Night 2
See Tripadvisor ReviewsProselinos Guesthouse in Dimitsana
This luxurious cottage in the mountains offers a wonderful respite after a long day of hiking. The suites have fireplaces and hydro-massage tubs.
Night 3
Guesthouse in Elati
Cozy up in a comfortable homestay in Elati, where you can chat with the friendly hosts before resting your head.
Night 4
See Tripadvisor ReviewsAgropoli in Nymfasia
This authentic mountain house welcomes you with private rooms, equipped with small kitchens, fireplaces, and balconies looking out to the mountains. Enjoy a hearty breakfast when you wake up.
Night 5
See Tripadvisor ReviewsValtesiniko Studios in Valtesiniko
Stay in a nice studio with a beautifully finished bedroom and friendly hosts.
Night 6
See Tripadvisor ReviewsAgnantio Studios in Lagkadia
Cozy, warm, and inviting describe this stunning hotel. With classic architecture and spacious rooms, you’ll feel like you’re in a Greek film portraying life in the mountains.
Hotels on Standard Tour
What’s included in the Menalon Trail Pilgrimage Tour?
Meals
6 breakfasts are included.
Accommodations
Accommodation for 6 nights is included. You can book additional nights at any of the hotels along the route.
Transportation during the Tour
While you walk between villages each day, transportation for your luggage is included.
Also Included
- Detailed hiking map in English
- Menalon Trail handling fees/sponsoring
- Souvenir Menalon Trail t-shirt
Not included
- Flights
- Visas if required
- Airport departure transfer
- Guide services
- Personal expenses and gratuities
- Meals, drinks, or snacks not previously mentioned
- Travel insurance and tourism tax
- Public transportation
- Anything not mentioned as included
Optional Extras
- Extra nights in any accommodation
- Airport departure transfer
Frequenty Asked Questions about The Menalon Trail Pilgrimage Tour
How hard is the Menalon Trail Pilgrimage Tour?
We rate this tour as a 3/5. You should be physically fit and comfortable walking 3–7 hours daily. The elevation gain is moderate, but you will have comfortable accommodation to recuperate. The trail is well-marked and well-maintained.
Do I need a visa to travel to Greece?
Check with your local country about visa requirements. You could also try this website, though you should verify with your government.
Are meals included on the Menalon Trail Pilgrimage Tour?
6 breakfasts are included.
I’ve never been on a self-guided trip! How does it work?
Self-guided travelling is not difficult! For many, it is a preferred type of travel, since you are in charge of your own time and pace. You are provided with all the information you’ll need to follow the route each day and often have access to phone support or other kinds of assistance. However, self-guided travelling requires good navigation skills and those who don’t feel confident in unknown places should consider booking guided tours.
Do I need insurance?
Yes, it is mandatory to have health and medical insurance to join this trip. Get your Travel Insurance.
How do I get to Stemnitsa to start this tour?
You can reach Stemnitsa by bus, train, or taxi from Athens International Airport (ATH) (2.5 hours) and Kalamata International Airport (KLX) (1.5 hours). You can reach Athens or Kalamata Airports from many major European airports.
Is the Menalon Trail Pilgrimage Tour guided?
No. You will be provided with all necessary information to complete your self-guided tour.
Where does the Menalon Trail Pilgrimage Tour end?
The tour ends in Lagkadia. You will be responsible for your own transportation to the airport or you can prebook a transfer as a supplement.
Do I need special vaccines to travel to Greece?
Check with your family doctor.
Are there any travel restrictions for Greece?
Please check with your local government about travel restrictions before you book your tour. This map from the US Department of State provides an overview of the current status in countries around the globe. The UK‘s Foreign Office and Government of Canada also provide advice on foreign travel. Note that the travel advice may change depending on your nationality.
When is the best time to travel to Greece for this tour?
The best time to travel to Greece for trekking is during the warmest months of the year (May-September), but know that it can get very hot mid-summer (July and August).
Reviews
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Details of the local tour operator will be listed on your booking invoice. If you have questions about the local operator prior to booking, please click the “Ask a Question” button below.
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What travellers say
Stephen L.
I’ve been using 10Adventures route guides for a while, but had never booked a tour. My wife and I booked a self-guided hike in Greece and were so impressed with how we were able navigate the route without a guide with the detailed and easy to follow itinerary. We enjoy travelling independently, and 10Adventures made that happen.
Melinda S.
I was going through a tough time and really needed a getaway so I decided to book a tour through 10Adventures. My trip to Peru changed my life in so many positive and eye-opening ways. I am so thankful for the kind, empathetic team at 10Adventures.
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Gabriela H.
Travel companies have had to go through a lot during the pandemic but 10Adventures were super flexible and accommodating nonetheless. I had to cancel my tour in France due to the pandemic. 10Adventures was great and let me reschedule for a later date!
Mikael V.
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Alexandra D.
Communicating with 10Adventures feels like talking with a family-run business. I love to explore and travel, and exploring with the comfort of knowing I can talk to the team at 10Adventures with almost immediate feedback helps to ease any stress that comes with adventuring!
Eric S.
Whenever I’m looking for my next adventure 10Adventures never fails. Their routes all over England are my main go to for exploring and I have only had great experiences booking both guided and self-guided trips in Europe and South America with them. I am looking into Africa next.
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I have horrible dietary issues making it super hard to book a pre-planned trip sometimes, but the communication through 10Adventures helped me navigate this situation! I am so grateful for all of their help. I cant wait to book with them again!
Erika S.
I just got back from backpacking in the Sierra Nevada, and WOW. What an unreal journey! The alpine meadows, waterfalls, and the lakeside camping spot were memorable highlights! I wonder what other tours 10Adventures has to offer. That one went so well that I am now convinced I need to book another!
Robert D.
I'm not a big fan of traveling because of my fear of flying, but my girlfriend convinced me to go on the Aurora Borealis Tour in the Yukon. I will never forget the mesmerizing northern lights. Such a romantic (and cold) getaway. I would highly recommend it.
Monica L.
Wow! I am so happy with the experience I had with booking through 10Adventures for my tour in Italy! I worked with Nadine and she was super easy-going and helpful when it came to tweaking the itinerary provided on the website. 10/10 would book through 10Adventures again.
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Why 10Adventures?
Rated 4.9 on Google Reviews
Tour Difficulty
We rate this tour as a 3/5. You should be physically fit and comfortable walking 3–7 hours daily. The elevation gain is moderate, but you will have comfortable accommodation to recuperate. The trail is well-marked and well-maintained.
Read about our scale for Tour Difficulty Ratings.
Local guide
Maria
Athens, Greece
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