Athens to Kalavryta Rack Railway Monastery and Wine Tasting

Built into the steep cliffs of Mount Helmos near Kalavryta, the historic Monastery of Mega Spilaio (Great Cave Monastery) is one of the oldest and most impressive monasteries in Greece. Founded in 362 AD by monks Symeon and Theodore, the monastery is renowned for its dramatic location and its unique eight-story structure carved into the rock face.

The monastery houses priceless religious relics, including the miraculous icon of the Virgin Mary, said to have been made by the Apostle Luke from mastic and wax. Visitors can explore its chapels, admire the rare frescoes, manuscripts, and icons, and enjoy breathtaking views over the Vouraikos Gorge.

Despite being destroyed several times throughout history — most notably during the Greek War of Independence and World War II — Mega Spilaio has always been rebuilt, standing today as a powerful symbol of faith, resilience, and Greek heritage.

The Kalavryta Holocaust Museum is housed in the old Primary School of Kalavryta, a historic building that played a tragic role during the events of December 13, 1943. On that day, German occupying forces executed almost the entire male population of Kalavryta and set the town on fire — one of the most devastating atrocities committed in Greece during World War II.

Today, the museum stands as a solemn memorial to the victims and a powerful reminder of the horrors of war. Its exhibits include photographs, personal belongings of the victims, documents, and testimonies that narrate the story of the massacre and the town’s painful recovery.

Visitors can reflect on the past through the museum’s moving displays and learn about the strength and resilience of the people of Kalavryta, who rebuilt their town from the ashes and turned tragedy into a message of peace and remembrance.

Diakopto is a charming coastal town located on the northern coast of the Peloponnese, at the foot of Mount Helmos. Nestled between the sea and the mountains, it serves as the gateway to the famous Vouraikos Gorge and the historic rack railway (Odontotos), which connects Diakopto with the mountain town of Kalavryta.

Kalavryta is a picturesque mountain town located on the slopes of Mount Helmos in the northern Peloponnese. Rich in history and natural beauty, it is one of Greece’s most beloved year-round destinations.

The town is also famous for its historic rack railway (Odontotos), which runs through the stunning Vouraikos Gorge, connecting Kalavryta with the coastal town of Diakopto.

Kalavryta holds a special place in Greek history: it was a major center of resistance during the Greek War of Independence and later witnessed the tragic Holocaust of 1943. Today, visitors can explore the Kalavryta Holocaust Museum, the Monastery of Mega Spilaio, and the nearby Cave of the Lakes.

Combining culture, history, and breathtaking nature, Kalavryta offers an unforgettable experience in the heart of the Peloponnese.