Travel time 1.5 hours

The Langada Pass between Kalamata and Sparta is definitely one of the most spectacular mountain routes in the whole of Greece, crossing the magnificent Taygetos Mountains.

The Langada Pass is actually 39.3 kilometres long and over this distance, you climb 1399 meters. This gives you some idea of the ascent. The climb starts suddenly approximately 9 kilometres west of Sparta in the village of Trypi, where the road enters the dramatic Langada Gorge. Just to the north of the gorge is the site where ancient Spartans abandoned any person who was sick or weak, the elderly, and babies too fragile or deformed to become very good soldiers.

From Trypi the road follows the course of the Langada River and continues climbing through a series of hairpin bends to emerge in a sheltered valley. This is a very good place to stop for a leisurely walk along the riverbank, as there are many plane trees in the vicinity. On leaving here the road climbs more steeply to the highest point of 1,425 metres, crossing the boundary from Lakonia to Messinia on the way. The descent into Kalamata is just as dramatic with absolutely stunning views.

This route is a necessity for anybody who wants to see views that are out of this world, and can be seen on a well-known circular route, taking in the main areas of Stoupa, Areopolis, Gytheio, Mystras, Sparta and Kalamata at the same time.

This is a full day sightseeing trip and is very popular with many tourists. A long day, but well worth the effort.

Travel time 2.5 hours

Methoni offers glorious long sandy beach with safe shallows, a few restaurants, bars, taverns and a 13th century Venetian castle.

The castle of Methoni is at the southernmost point of the west coast of the Peloponnese. Inside the castle are the ruins of the byzantine church of St. Sophia, Turkish baths, a building which was used as a shelter and the church of the Transformation of our Saviour which was built in 1833.

To the south of the castle, on a small island, there is Bourtzi, which is an octagon fort with symmetrical walls.

The castle at night is a stunning attraction and can be seen from near and far.

Methoni is a friendly and traditional Greek village that makes you feel like a local.

Travel time 2.5 hours

Monemvassia in Greek means Solitary Entrance, because from the port there is only one way in. A 13th century Byzantine village built on a rock; it is sometimes called the Gibraltar of Greece.

Surrounded by walls and built on the southern slopes of the headland, Monemvassia still retains much of its former medieval character. For this reason perhaps it has now become popular with artists and world celebrities.

The local name for the island is Kastro meaning castle. A paved pathway leads to the summit of the hill and the castle, which overlooks the town below. Around the castle are a number of Byzantine towers and several Byzantine churches.

Its narrow cobblestone streets only allow for donkeys and mules that supply all the needs of the villagers. The grand old houses and 40 old Byzantine churches, some well preserved, others not, in the lower part of the town, reflect the power and wealth which Monemvassia enjoyed for centuries under her various rulers.

Long worn marble steps lead up to the beautiful 13th century church of Agios Sofia with spectacular views. The church of Agios Nikolaos and Eklomenou Christou, which is Venetian, is also worth a visit.

Monemvassia is famous for its lobster and red mullet and a must for all fish fans.