One-Day Excursion from Patras to Kalavryta, Cave Lakes & Mega Spileon Monastery

Come and enjoy a unique one-day trip with the Odondotos Rack Railway to Kalavryta, and visit the Cave of the Lakes & the Great Cave!

Odondotos Rack Railway

About 120 years ago, the Odontotos rack railway line started from the seaside town of Diakopto, running parallel to the river, ascending to Kalavryta through bridges and tunnels.

Since then, the Vouraikos River and Odontotos have been traveling side by side. The small train has been integrated so perfectly into the natural environment that it seems to have belonged there forever. Its construction caused no damage to the ecosystem of the gorge. Using stone and wood from the area, the engineers worked so skillfully that it appears as if the natural landscape shaped it on its own. Odontotos is not just a train.

The Vouraikos Gorge and Odontotos rack railway from Diakopto to Kalavryta a unique attractions in Greece. It is a place full of cities, villages, hospitable inhabitants, a unique environment, and the aroma of Greek life. To capture the history of this place, volumes of books will be needed, but a train trip will offer you an authentic experience.

Cave Lakes Kastria Cave

The caves are a place of magic and mystery and not just for children or poets.

The Cave of the Lakes is not only a superb natural, but also a valuable cultural monument, we need to know from all sides.

For the viewer, the impression is stronger and unforgettable. Lakes in the interior of a cave are neither common around the world, nor in Greece, where they constitute a unique geological phenomenon. Here the waters sometimes overflow in the winter and stagnate in the other seasons, in the 13 terraced lakes. And since we learn we need to teach our children to listen to the secrets of the Earth. So only in this way, we can protect the unique nature of the caves. You will stand by the beauty of this cave! 

Kalavryta

Kalavryta town welcomes you as one of the hot winter destinations in the Peloponnese.

This beautiful town lies at the foot of Mt. Chelmos and it is a must-visit buzzing place during the cold months of the year on account of its ski center.

It is a place that holds a significant place in History...In this dreamlike setting, you will see stone-built houses, small squares, charming alleys, picturesque cafés, and tavernas right next to shady plane trees: it’s a destination ideal for those aiming to combine their love for nature with their romantic mood. 

Mega Spileon Monastery

Mega Spileo Monastery is one of the oldest monasteries in Greece.

The monastery counts its history from 320 A. D. It has unique architecture, it was completely built in the mountain. In the 1920s was damaged by fire, and restored to the present view. Inside the monastery there are long halls with portraits of the Greek resistance of 1821, sculptures, and of course the Mega Spileo itself.

The monastery has an excellent library and a well-taken-care museum with rare books and manuscripts decorated with wonderful miniatures, as well as the relics of saints and unique relics, from which a rare flag with the figures of three Byzantine emperors stands out.

Definitely worth a visit!

Departure Points: Patras - Aigio (meeting point to be arranged depending on demand).

Excursion Schedule:

• Boarding from the departure point (time and location to be arranged).
• Boarding the Odontotos, 1-hour train ride.
• Pick-up by the guide at the Kalavryta stop & transfer to the Cave of Lakes.
• Entry to the Cave of Lakes & stay for 1.5-2 hours.
• Pick-up by the guide & transfer to the town of Kalavryta.
• Stay & free time (lunch, coffee, visit to the Holocaust Museum, ticket price: 4€ for adults, 2€ for children).
• Pick-up & transfer to the Mega Spilaio Monastery.
• One-hour stay at the Monastery.
• Pick-up & return to the base.

* Timings may slightly vary depending on passenger preferences or weather conditions.*

Note:

• Minimum participation of 4 people.