Days
8
Trip Style
Adventure
Eight incredible days of open water swimming at the southern coasts of the Peloponnese based in the town of Kalamata
Destination
Peloponnese
Meeting Point
Kalamata or Athens Airport
Season
May – Jun / Sept – Oct
Open Water Swimming Private Trips Adventure Holidays in Greece Clubs & Special Interest Groups
Accommodation
Hotel
Physical Rating
Minimum Age
18
Group Size
Up to 14
Trip Overview
This 8-day sea safari is a deep dive into open water swimming in the Peloponnese, designed for swimmers who seek wild settings, dramatic coastlines, and a healthy balance between time in the water and life on land. We will welcome you on your arrival and transfer you to the city of Kalamata, our base for the week. During the week you will have the chance to swim along a magnificent coastline with caves and impressive rock formations and complete two crossings between mainland and uninhabited islands. Each day we swim a piece of the trail and we also stop for pic-nic lunch at remote beaches with extraordinary surroundings. Every day, we shall have the chance to dine in local tavernas, sample excellent food while at the same time immerse ourselves in the Greek lifestyle and culture. By the end of this week, you will have swum in 5 stages a series along the untamed coastline of south Peloponnese and a distance of approximately 18km.
Why you will Love it
- Unspoiled environment: This trip offers the opportunity to swim in the untouched coastline of the south Peloponnese.
- Impressive Landscapes: With swims along coastlines dotted with stunning caves and rock formations, and picnics on secluded beaches
- Luxury Recharge: Retreat to your 4-star hotel after a day of open water excitement.
- Safety and support: Enjoy the support of guides and safety escorts, ensuring each swimmer gains what’s needed
- Healthy Balance: Beyond swims, the trip is designed to maintain a healthy equilibrium once you’re out of the water.
It’s a raw and immersive way to experience open water swimming in the Peloponnese, combining challenging swims with recovery, culture, and coastal exploration.
Trip information
Map & Details
Details
Destination Peloponnese
Meeting Point Kalamata or Athens Airport
Season May – Jun / Sept – Oct
Accommodation 4 Star Hotel
Physical Rating 4/5
Minimum Age 18
Group Size Up to 14
Itinerary
Day 1: Arrive to Athens or Kalamata
ATH or KLX Airports
Your flight arrives in Kalamata or Athens Airport where your host will be eagerly waiting to drive you straight to our beachfront hotel in Kalamata. It’s time to soothe your travel fatigue, strolling around Kalamata town or lazing at the hotel. When the sun dips low, gather with your fellow thrill-seekers for a sumptuous welcome feast at a local taverna and get briefed by your guides on the unforgettable journey ahead!
Day 2: Swim the Navarino Bay
4.0 km
First day of our swimming adventure. Following breakfast, we’ll hold a briefing detailing the itinerary for the coming days. Our adventure today will take us from Pylos to the bay of Navarino and the Sfactiria Island, a breathtaking natural port, almost concealed by the island itself. Our swim will take us from Pylos to Sfactiria and the unique and spectacular islet of Fanari, distinguished by a striking gap between steep cliffs. We’ll take a moment to rest and enjoy a picnic on a local beach before making our return swim to Pylos. In the afternoon, we’ll visit the renowned round beach of Voidokilia and unwind at a beach bar nearby. We’ll end the day with drive back to our hotel in Kalamata for a well-deserved rest. To cap off the day, we’ll gather for dinner at a charming seaside taverna in Kalamata.
Day 3: Swim across the channel of Methoni
3.0 km
The day starts with a full delicious breakfast. After breakfast we drive toward Methoni. The crossing to Sapientza island is only 2,5 km, perfect for any open-sea challenge. The route allows you to discover two shipwrecks, lying on the seabed close to the northern cape of the island. Break at the Caribbean like beach of the island for pic-nic and rest before swimming back to Methoni. We return back to Methoni on a boat. Post-swim, we pay a visit to the nearby town of Finikounda, unwinding at one of the beachfront bars on its golden beach. We return to Kalamata and conclude the day with dinner at the marina, relishing the day’s fresh fish catch.
Day 4: Swim the coast of Kardamili
4.0 km
Breakfast and drive to Kardamyli. A tiny village having one of the prettiest settings in the Peloponnese nestled between the blue waters of the Messinian Gulf and the Taÿgetos Mountains. A perfect spot for coastal swimming. Blessed with clear and cool waters, and a rugged and rocky coastline Kardamyli offers a great playground for any swimming enthusiast. Foneas Beach is an ideal endpoint and a place to enjoy our lunch. After swimming we visit the nearby town of Stoupa and relax at the of Kalogria a must-visit place once here. Drive back to Kalamata to relax at our hotel and enjoy a dinner at a beach sited restaurant.
Day 5: Off the water – Free day
0 km
Today is designated as an off the water day, allowing those who wish to unwind in Kalamata the freedom to explore and enjoy at their leisure. You are free to choose your own adventure in Nafplio, but rest assured, our knowledgeable guides will be on hand with top recommendations. Take a stroll through the picturesque alleys of the historical centre or just spend the whole day relaxing at the beach.
Day 6: Swim the coast of Katafygi
4.0 km
Begin your day with breakfast, then journey a bit further south from Kardamyli to the quaint fishing village of Agios Dimitrios. Today’s swim reveals another side of this breathtaking coastline. We venture along the Katafygi coast, a virtually untouched rocky marvel that remains untouched by tourism, presenting an irresistible geological wonder to explore. Pause for a picnic at the beautiful Katafygi beach, and if feeling adventurous, consider visiting the cave perched just above the sea. After swimming, we’ll stop by the neighboring fishing port of Agios Nikolaos for some ouzo and meze. Enjoy dinner at a local tavern in the same area and then return to Kalamata to unwind at our hotel.
Day 7: Swim the Cape of Kitries
3.0km
Today is our last day! After breakfast we check out of our hotel and drive 20 minutes east of Kalamata for our last but not least swimming adventure. We will explore the cape of Kitries starting from the picturesque little port after a stop to the secluded beach of Dikalamos we head back. As you glide through the vividly blue water, you will be treated to stunning panoramas of the lighthouse, a signature sight of the cape. By the afternoon we return to Kalamata for a delectable farewell dinner and your last overnight stay.
Day 8: Departure
As we gather for our final breakfast in the beautiful Kalamata, let’s avoid farewells. Instead, let’s promise to “meet again!” We have your return transportation to Kalamata or Athens airport organized, guaranteeing you leave with a collection of memorable moments and an enthusiasm for more exploration! Keep in mind, every trip’s conclusion is simply the start of another adventure.
Inclusions
Guides Expert, English-speaking local guides
Accommodation 7 nights in a 4-star waterfront hotel
Meals 7 breakfasts, 6 lunches, 6 dinners
Transfers Airport transfers, luggage transfers and any local transfer as described
Safety Support Kayaks & SUP’s (will be with you during swimming)
Not Included
- Flights to and from the meeting point
- Soft drinks and alcoholic beverages
- Admissions to sites, museums, castles,
- Travel Insurance
- Personal expenses
- Tips for your guides
Accomodation & Food
Day 1
Lodging: Hotel – Twin Share
Meals included: Dinner
Day 2 – Day 7
Lodging: Hotel – Twin Share
Meals: Breakfast, Picnic Lunch, Dinner
Day 8
Meals: Breakfast
What’s the Accommodation Like?
A 4-star hotel will be your base for this exciting adventure in Kalamata! Your hotel is perfectly situated near the beach, offering stunning views of the forts of the Mediterranean Sea. With a blend of modern comforts and traditional Greek touches, you’ll feel right at home. Use your hotel as a launching pad for your daily adventures and evenings spent exploring the buzzing beachfront of Kalamata. Rest easy in your comfortable twin-share rooms with ensuite bathrooms.
If you’re a solo traveler seeking some personal space, we offer the option to book a private room for an additional fee. Just check out our Optional Extras for the price and request your private room when making your booking (subject to availability).
What’s the Food Like?
When traveling to Greece, food is a highlight. Indulge in an unforgettable culinary experience on this trip to Greece. Your hosts will treat you with dinners at their favorite restaurants in Kalamata, where you’ll get to try a variety of authentic Greek dishes. Picture yourself sitting at a cozy taverna, overlooking the mesmerizing Mediterranean after a swimming day. Savor grilled fish, pastitsio or mousaka, and more mouthwatering delicacies. Taste of a refreshing bottle of Mythos beer, or a glass of great wine from the local wineries.
When it comes to breakfast, your hotel has got you covered. They will serve you a delectable spread of locally sourced, seasonal products. Take your pick from hot and cold options, tantalizing sweets, and freshly squeezed juices. Need a caffeine fix? They have you covered with a selection of coffees.
Your guides are not only experienced adventurers but also skilled cooks. They will prepare delicious lunches for you, featuring fresh bread, local cheeses, hand-picked vegetables, and tasty dips seasoned with aromatic herbs. And of course, there will be seasonal fruits to cleanse your palate.
We understand that everyone has different dietary needs and allergies, so don’t worry. Vegetarians, vegans, and those with special dietary requirements can be catered for. Just let us know in advance so we can make the necessary arrangements.
Who is this Trip for?
This journey is tailored for those who relish a blend of coastal exploration and short open-water crossings. With a variety of coastlines to explore, this adventure caters perfectly to those swimmers who enjoy immersing themselves in their environment as they glide on the water. It’s also an excellent choice for partners who may not swim.
Participants need to have a rudimentary comprehension of swimming in the open water and should be able to manage an average daily swim distance of about 4km in a single swim. This swim journey has been categorized as ‘Moderate’ grading. Most swimmers comfortable in the open water will be able to take part and enjoy one of these trips.
This is a confident yet approachable take on open water swimming in Greece, ideal for swimmers comfortable in the sea who want variety, scenery, and meaningful distance.
How to Get There
Transportation
Start your adventure in Greece’s Peloponnese region with a warm welcome on Day 1 at Athens Airport. Our friendly host will be there to pick you up and take you to your hotel in town. And on Day 7, we’ll make sure you’re back at the airport with plenty of time for your onward flight.
If you’re arriving on Day 1 and departing on Day 7, transfers to and from the airport are included. But don’t worry if your travel dates don’t fit this schedule – just contact us for details on arranging an airport transfer outside of these days.
Travel Options
Athens Airport is the easiest way to get to Greece. Kalamata Airport is an alternative gateway to the mesmerizing Peloponnese region. With daily direct flights from the major European hubs throughout the summer season, getting here is a breeze. If you’re traveling from the US, fear not. You can fly directly to Athens and then have a quick hop over to Kalamata. And if you prefer a scenic journey, why not hop on the express bus service from Athens to Kalamata? It’s a three-hour ride filled with breathtaking views.
Inclusions
Tailor this Trip
Embrace the thrill of personalized travel experiences with us! We appreciate that each adventurer is unique, that’s why we offer a suite of customizable features to curate your dream journey. Whether you need additional accommodation before or after your expedition, extra transport facilities, or wish to extend the joy of exploration a little longer, we’ve got you covered. Reach out to us, share your aspirations, and let’s make your travel dreams come alive!
Rates & Dates
Gather your favorite travel companions to share this Explore Greece Adventure on an easy-to-book Private Departure.
Private group departures for this trip are available every day on request from April to June and from September to October. Make Your own Dates in these months.
Pricing depends on your group size and your travel dates, and is based on double room occupancy in the pre-specified hotel category (see inclusions).
Prefer a single room or a hotel upgrade? Tell us what you have in mind and we’ll send a tailored quotation.
Make an Enquiry
Want to book this trip? Or you have question? Or want to tailor this trip?
Please email us or complete the form below and let’s get started!
Email: [email protected]
Want to speak directly with one of our Travel Specialists?
Call: +30 694 858 3138 or use the chat bubble.
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