Kalavryta, Vouraikos Gorge and Cave of Lakes Private Tour

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Recommended by 100% of reviewers

| Athens, Greece

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10 to 12 hours (approx.)

Hotel pickup offered

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Overview

Escape the bustling city of Athens and embark on a captivating journey to the mountain town of Kalavryta. This full-day private tour immerses you in the Peloponnesian region’s breathtaking landscapes, rich history, and unique cultural heritage. Enjoy the scenic drive through majestic countryside, and opt for a thrilling ride on the historic Odontotos Rack Railway through the outstanding Vouraikos Gorge. Explore the picturesque streets of Kalavryta and learn about its poignant history at the Municipal Museum of the Kalavryta Holocaust. Cap off your adventure with a visit to the spectacular Cave of Lakes, where cascading underground lakes and otherworldly formations await. Perfect for families, history buffs, and nature lovers, this tour offers a memorable blend of beauty, education, and exploration.

What's Included

Pickup and drop-off available at any location in Athens, Piraeus, Athens Airport, and Piraeus Port
Private transportation
WiFi on board
Bottled waters
Mercedes air-conditioned Premium Minivan
Charge your devices with our 4 USB quick chargers (Type C & Apple)
English-speaking tour driver with extensive knowledge of each location's history and significance
Odontotos Rack Railway Train tickets (select the "+ Odontotos Rack Railway Train" rate)
PDF guide for all sights and monuments of the tour

Kastria Cave of the Lakes (9€/adult)
Municipal Museum of the Kalavryta Holocaust (4€/adult)

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Meeting and Pickup

Pickup point

Pickup details

Additional Pickup Information: -Pickup at any location in Athens or Piraeus. -Airport Pickup: Upon your arrival at Athens International Airport (El. Venizelos), please proceed to the arrivals hall. Our driver will be waiting for you, holding a sign with your name. -Port Pickup: Upon your arrival at the port, please proceed to the ship's exit. Our driver will be waiting for you, holding a sign with your name. -Hotel Pickup: For your departure, our driver will meet you in the lobby of your designated hotel or accommodation in Athens at the scheduled time. Please ensure you are ready and waiting in the lobby 15 minutes before the pickup time. -Luggage Assistance: Our drivers will assist you with your luggage, ensuring a hassle-free experience from start to finish. -Contact Information: For urgent assistance, please reach out to us using the contact details provided in your booking or account. -Special Requests: If you have any special requests or needs, please let us know when booking, and we will do our best to accommodate them. We look forward to providing you with a memorable and enjoyable tour!

What To Expect

Athens

Pickup at your hotel, apartment, Airbnb, Athens airport, or Piraeus port.

15 minutes • Admission Ticket Free

Corinth Canal

A quick stop to admire and photograph the Corinth Canal, which separates the Peloponnese from mainland Greece.

15 minutes • Admission Ticket Free

Gorge of Vouraikos

Enjoy a flexible journey with personalized stops to admire the stunning landscapes, capture breathtaking photos, and explore the gorge’s key highlights at your own pace.

30 minutes • Admission Ticket Free

Mega Spileo Monastery

Perched on a cliffside of Vouraikos Gorge, Mega Spileo Monastery (founded in 362 AD) is one of Greece’s oldest and most sacred sites. Built into a massive rock face, it houses the miraculous icon of the Virgin Mary, believed to be crafted by Saint Luke the Evangelist. The monastery features eight stories filled with Byzantine frescoes, religious relics, and rare manuscripts, while balconies offer breathtaking views. A key stronghold during the Greek War of Independence, it withstood destruction in WWII, standing today as a symbol of faith, history, and resilience.

30 minutes • Admission Ticket Free

Kastria Cave of the Lakes

Continue your exploration with a visit to the enchanting Cave of Lakes. This unique natural wonder features a series of cascading underground lakes and stunning stalactites and stalagmites. Wander along well-lit paths and wooden walkways as you marvel at the cave’s surreal beauty. The experience is both educational and awe-inspiring, making it a highlight of your tour. A rare creation of nature with mysterious galleries and strange stalactite formations. A unique natural creation featuring 13 cascading lakes of various sizes and shapes, three different levels, and a steady year-round temperature of 16-17°C. Around 1980 meters of the cave have been explored, though at present only 500 meters are open to visitors. Fossilized bones of various animals have been found here, as well as important archaeological and anthropological finds (including pottery and tools) dating from Neolithic, Early Helladic and Middle Helladic times.

1 hour • Admission Ticket Free

Place of Sacrifice of Kalavryta

The Place of Sacrifice is a solemn memorial marking the site where, on December 13, 1943, Nazi forces executed over 500 men and boys from Kalavryta in one of the most tragic massacres of World War II. Located on a hillside overlooking the town, this sacred site features a large white cross and engraved stone plaques listing the names of the victims, serving as a powerful reminder of the town’s suffering and resilience. Each year, a commemorative ceremony is held here, ensuring that this dark chapter in history is never forgotten. The site offers a deeply emotional experience, inviting visitors to reflect on the horrors of war and the enduring spirit of Kalavryta.

15 minutes • Admission Ticket Free

The Municipal Museum of the Kalavryta Holocaust

Delve into the harrowing history of Kalavryta by visiting this museum, dedicated to one of the darkest chapters of World War II. On December 13, 1943, German forces executed nearly the entire male population of Kalavryta and burned the town in retaliation against the Greek resistance. The museum’s exhibits include personal artifacts of the victims, photographs, survivor testimonies, and detailed narratives that vividly recount this tragic event. Walking through the museum is a deeply emotional and educational experience that pays tribute to the resilience and courage of the survivors and ensures that this history is never forgotten.

30 minutes • Admission Ticket Free

Kalavryta

Once you arrive in Kalavryta, immerse yourself in the charm of this mountain town. Wander its cobblestone streets, visit boutique shops selling local products such as honey and handmade crafts, and savor traditional Greek dishes at a local taverna. Learn about the town’s significant historical role during World War II through its museums and monuments.

1 hour 30 minutes • Admission Ticket Free

Odontotos Rack Railway

(Depending on train ticket availability) Choose between an unforgettable ride on the renowned Odontotos Rack Railway or a scenic journey by private minivan through the breathtaking Vouraikos Gorge. About 120 years ago Odontotos rack railway started from the seaside town of Diakopto parallel to the river and climbed to Kalavrita through bridges and tunnels. The little train incorporated so well to the natural environment that it seems that it had always been there. The way it was constructed did not put a strain on the ecosystem of the gorge. This narrow-gauge railway winds through tunnels, crosses picturesque bridges, and hugs steep cliffs, offering stunning views of rugged landscapes and lush greenery. Ideal for photography and nature lovers, the 22-kilometer route takes about an hour, ending in Kalavryta, where your chauffeur will be waiting. Train tickets are limited and must be booked at least 48 hours in advance; we’re happy to assist.

1 hour 30 minutes • Admission Ticket Free

Athens

Drop-off at your hotel, apartment, Airbnb, Athens airport, or Piraeus port.

15 minutes • Admission Ticket Free

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Additional Info

Confirmation is instant and will be received at time of booking
Service animals allowed
Public transportation options are available nearby
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
Specialized infant seats are available
Luggage: Please inform us in advance if you have any special luggage requirements, such as large items or extra bags.

Special Requests: If you have any special requests or needs, please let us know when booking, and we will do our best to accommodate them.
Our tour drivers will provide engaging commentary in fluent English, sharing insights about the region’s natural beauty, wildlife, and history. As you journey through the lush landscapes of Mountainous Kalavryta, they will highlight key landmarks, scenic spots, and fascinating local stories, ensuring a memorable and informative experience.
Travel Time: Approximately 3 hours each way, included in the total tour duration.
We provide assistance to people with movement disability for boarding and alighting from the vehicle. However, it is advisable to inform us in advance if any special arrangements are required.
For families with younger children, we offer child safety seats upon request.
Important Note: To ensure availability for Odontotos Rack Railway train tickets, we recommend booking at least 48 hours in advance. We can handle the purchase for you.

Frequently Asked Questions

(7)

Q: What is the cancellation policy for the Kalavryta, Vouraikos Gorge and Cave of Lakes Private Tour?

A: You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance of the tour for a full refund. For a full refund, you must cancel at least 24 hours before the tour start time.If you cancel less than 24 hours before the tour start time, the amount you paid will not be refunded.Any changes made less than 24 hours before the tour start time will not be accepted.Cut-off times are based on the tour local time (EEST). Read more Apr 2025