A place that fully represents the grandeur of eras past and truly encapsulates the essence of a retreat holiday in Greece that unravels in a luxurious, fairytale setting. Nested on a hillside and wrapped in 30 acres of expansive, verdant gardens, waking up in Grand Palace Resort will make you reminisce of a place that feels familiar yet elusive at the same time, because you thought it only existed somewhere in the realms of your imagination.
Wellness retreat Holidays in Greece
Breathe Deep Fresh mountain air in your escape for serenity, a mountain getaway is the pinnacle of Health & Wellness in Peloponnese Greece Retreat to the verdant hills close to the Byzantine city of Sparta to soak up a plethora of rejuvenating treatments. Facials, body wraps and massages at the Laconium Spa are delivered with nature and the philosophy of the Spartans in mind; standouts with the allure of the skin cell-renewing coffee body wrap set the tone. The aura of the geography seeps into Mystras’s design – its range of guest rooms suites marry twinkling colors to rustic finishes. And they boast up-to-the-minute tech gadgets to really draw you in. The unique combination of Mediterranean charm and medieval myth is effortlessly woven together, to create an elegant holiday heaven that takes you on a journey back through time.Under the auspices of the Byzantine castle of Mystras and nestled on the slopes of Taygetos, within 23 acres of lush landscape, Mystras Grand Palace Resort will make you feel like you have found yourself in a familiar yet majestic place. Amidst verdant surroundings, fountains and flower gardens, you’ll wake up somewhere between the realms of your imagination, history and reality. Furthermore, its splendid design, harmonized with the impressive architecture of Mystras, the ideal conditions for a stay that exceeds your expectations, while the fully modernized facilities make guests’ comfort a top priority.
Guests’ Health & Safety is another priority of ours, so, with TUV Austria’s “Covid Shield” program, Mystras Grand Palace Resort implements all relevant protocols for the protection of the health and safety of both our employees and guests. We assure you that we have taken every measure to bring you the best service, in a clean and pleasant environment for you and your families. We are ready to offer you a unique holiday experience!
5 Nights and Activities to choose
Mani is an immense “museum” of nature, a route in history, between ancient temples, Byzantine churches, gallant castle houses, and smells of thyme, sage and sea breeze. In your spare time, you can get to know it better with excursions to natural beauty trails and historical interest.
Starting our hike from the fortress of old Kardamyli we follow the trail of the ancient time called ‘’royal street’’ connecting Kardamyli with Sparta during ancient years. Walking on a pathway immersed in olive trees, pines and cypress trees. Visiting some of the traditional villages of the region, we walk through their narrow streets and alleys learning about their history. Byzantine churches, stone-built watchtowers, old fountains, olive and grain mills reveal the life of locals in the past. A blast of colors and aromas from wildflowers and herbs overwhelm us and bring us even closer to the natural environment. Just a breath away, mount Taygetos with its imposing peaks the magnificence of the mountainous nature is harmoniously combined with the allure of the sea as mount Taygetos is so close from the embrace of the Mediterranean.
A small break for a healthy picnic with traditional local delicacies gives us a good mood and additional energy.
Meeting time: 9:30 a.m.
Meeting point: Kardamyli square.
Duration: 5 hours including breaks
Difficulty: Easy, a few challenging parts
Suitability: Family friendly, Group friendly, Couples, seniors, Youth, Kids over 10 years old
Just a short distance from Kalamata, lies mount Kalathi rising up to 1300 meters. Visible from any side of the city, you can see it sometimes lost in the clouds. It is very rare for a mountain of such height to be sited so close to the sea and the city. On its slopes, picturesque villages smothered in green and even higher on its summit, forests of fir and pine trees with stunning views to the Messinian Bay and the city of Kalamata.
Our hike starts from the village of Ano Verga. We follow the trail ascending to the mountain’s highest peak. Along the way, we discover the ruins of a Greek settlement of the past century lost among olive trees, walnuts, mulberries and fir trees. The smell of the herbs, fragrant shrubs and wildflowers dominate our senses. Arriving at the highest peak at 1316 meters the view to the Messinian Bay and the city of Kalamata is breathtaking. We stop at an old threshing floor to rest and taste a homemade picnic of local delicacies and fresh fruits enjoying stunning views.
Meeting time: 9:30 a.m.
Meeting point: Ano Verga.
Duration: 4 hours including breaks
Difficulty: Easy, some challenging parts
Suitability: Family friendly, Group friendly, Couples, seniors, Youth
Our hike starts from the village of Altomira on the outskirts of the southwestern Taygetos. Biliovo is considered as one of the most well-preserved traditional cobblestone paths of Greece, unique in its kind, it is classified as a folk architectural monument. It was created by local artisans in the early 20th century in an effort lasted 25 years! It has been a vital boost for the local social and economic growth since it linked the higher with the lower villages of western Mani. While descending on its curly way of 75 turns, images from the past unfold when locals were passing through the path carrying water and goods from their fields to their houses with the help of patient mules. The natural environment around in and the elevation since in some parts the cobble path has been built on 70% slope, offer awesome views. While walking through the old path our gaze extends to all over Messinia lapped by the blue Mediterranean. From the villages of Mani and the city of Kalamata to Koroni and Cape Akritas. Midway we stop to rest and taste a homemade picnic of local delicacies and fresh fruits enjoying stunning views.
Meeting time: 9:30 a.m.
Meeting point: Kampos Avias
Duration: 4 hours including breaks
Difficulty: Easy, mainly downhill
Suitability: Family friendly, Group friendly, Couples, Seniors, Youth, Kids over 5 years
A half day hike at the longest gorge of mount Taygetos
Just 10km away from Kalamata, close to the core of Taygetos lies Ridomo gorge a geological phenomenon with interesting limestone formations, created by the effect of water rushing down from the mountains.
The gorge starts from the peaks of mount Taygetos all the way down to the beach of Santova just outside of Kalamata. At a certain point it becomes two meters narrow and 60 meters high. Walking through this part is a great experience.
Our hike starts from the rim near the village Vorio. We follow the path leading down to the rocky bottom. Walking the gorge uphill is a bit challenging as we scramble the huge boulders but very much rewarding as the views around us are truly magnificent. We make a few stops to rest enjoy a healthy picnic and admire the unique geological formations. We may spot some wild goats skillfully balancing on the almost vertical cliffs. Small waterfalls dripping down from high above, and partly those walls are decorated by evergreen ivy plants. After around 5 kilometers the rockiest part is over and the gorge gets narrower. Soon we shall find yourselves into a narrow corridor between vertical walls, listening the echo of our steps and almost able to touch both walls at the same time. This is the most impressive part of Ridomo Gorge.
Meeting time: 9:30 a.m.
Meeting point: Voreio
Duration: 5 hours including breaks
Difficulty: Challenging
Suitability: Family, Group friendly, Couples, Youth, Kids over 12 years old
We meet at Foneas beach, a few kilometers south of Kardamyli. Kardamyli is a port village in the Mani nestled between the blue waters of the Messinian Gulf and Mount Taygetos.
After a short introduction to stand up paddle boarding where you will learn the basic paddling techniques, how to turn, stop and stand up until you grow confident on your board, we are ready to go. Starting at a slow pace, we shall practice our skills, stop occasionally to enjoy magnificent the landscape and take pictures. The perspective from a Paddleboard is unique, giving the paddler a different perception into the water where it is common to see the fish and sea turtles swimming below the surface. In addition, the view from on top of the water is equally impressive. The beauty of the imposing cliffs around the coastline is so breath-taking that you feel as if you’ve left the real world behind you. Soon we will be exploring hidden beaches, and paddle inside coves with turquoise water. We will be paddling into sea caves, swim into hidden caverns, enjoy gliding alongside the cliffs and for those who dare an option is a cliff jump into the water. Halfway we shall make a relaxing stop for swimming and snorkeling. Time to discover the richness of the underwater world. A delicious picnic is scheduled half way, sourced from farm-fresh, local producers carefully prepared by your guide.
Meeting time: 9:30 a.m.
Meeting point: Foneas Beach.
Duration: 4 hours including breaks
Difficulty: Easy
Suitability: Family, Group friendly, Couples, seniors, Youth, Kids over 5 years
Monemvasia is a unique medieval gem of Greece one of the most beautiful castle towns in the world. Sea kayaking in Monemvasia reveals amazing views of the city walls, the rock, and the spectacular cliffs visible only from the sea.
Meet your guide at Monemvasia’s small port located across the fort, and get a short introduction to paddling techniques, safety measures, and equipment. Soon we shall hop on our kayaks for a trip around the rock like never before. It is well known that the best view of Monemvasia is from the sea and this is what we shall do. Paddling under the impressive city walls and rocks on which the town is built you will enjoy breathtaking views of the citadel town from a different perspective. You will enjoy in private the best view of the city walls and the medieval town with several breaks for story-telling. This is unquestionably the most beautiful part of our sea adventure. The area is mostly rugged, but that doesn’t mean that you can’t enjoy a swim. Our next stop is ‘’Portelo’’, a small, hidden gap on the south side of the walls offering the unique experience of swimming in the shade of the Castle of Monemvasia and as well as a platform for fun diving! After completing our paddling around the rock, we shall jump out of our kayaks onto a beach, where we will break for a homemade picnic, sunbathing and snorkeling to discover the richness of the underwater world. We finish the day paddling back to the starting bay overlooking the rock from a different angle.
Meeting time: 9:30 a.m.
Meeting point: Monemvasia Port
Duration: 3 hours including breaks
Difficulty: Very easy
Suitability: Family friendly, Group friendly, Couples, seniors, Youth, Kids over 5 years old
Our trip starts from Kardamyli’s old harbor we paddle in warm crystal-clear waters, exploring hidden coves and impressive rock formations. We visit sea caves and discover idyllic beaches along the shoreline.
Kardamyli and Stoupa two villages in the Mani nestled between the blue waters of the Messinian Gulf and Mount Taygetos Sea kayaking here is indeed one of our most popular tours offering an inch by inch exploration of the rich in images and diversity environment. Will be exploring the coast at a relaxed paddling pace and your guides will reveal you some of the secrets of the area. Each little cove hides a special surprise such as hidden sea caves, rock gardens, cliffs with spectacular formation, hidden sandy and pebble beaches
Meeting time: 9:30 a.m.
Meeting point: The old customs in St. John’s harbor
Duration: 4 hours including breaks
Difficulty: Easy
Suitability: Family friendly, Group friendly, Couples, seniors, Youth, Kids over 5 years old
The gorge of Polylimnio waterfalls is a paradise on earth and one of the hidden gems of the Peloponnese.An easy hike combined with archery into one of the secret gems of the Mani region.
Polylimnio means many lakes and this is exactly what you discover. There are numerous fresh water lakes in many levels with aqua blue waters created by spectacular waterfalls. Water flows from one lake to another and the hiker can cross the gorge through a clear path, bridges, as well as metal aiding handles.
Suitability: Family friendly, Group friendly, Couples, seniors, Youth, Kids over 5 years old
We meet at the village of Haravgi where our hike starts towards the gorge. We walk into a magical but real natural paradise passing along lakes and spectacular waterfalls. Our hike will take up to two hours and it is suitable for kids as there is no significant altitude difference. Swimming into the lakes would be an option. A swim into the lake and under the waterfall will be extremely refreshing and the perfect reward. At the end of the hike we can enjoy a healthy picnic with traditional local delicacies and relax by the lake. Here your guide and archery instructor will assemble your bow and will set up the place for shooting. Your guide will advise you step by step on how to use your bow and arrows with precision and safety. At the end, we will celebrate your scores.
Meeting time: 9:30 a.m.
Meeting point: Haravgi village, Polylimnio parking area.
Duration: 4 hours including breaks
Difficulty: Very easy
From:
850 € per person in Double room
Is made up of 5 star Rooms and Suites, of the highest standard. Traditional design, inspired by the historic architecture of the region, is fused with modern touches, resulting in a wonderfully rustic ambiance that is also effortlessly elegant. The chic decor is achieved by the splendid, local materials used throughout as well as fine furnishing, while the clever use of space makes the most of the interiors. Stone walls, wooden ceilings and tiled roofs create an authentic, understated sense of vintage luxury. Each Room or Suite features a sensational outdoor patio or balcony with a seating area, from where guests enjoy the unique landscape with views of the lush gardens, the surrounding mountains and even the iconic castle of Mystras itself.
Enjoy a luxurious Holiday in Greece
Healthy Food from the local area
Delve into a world of flavor. Literally, an entire world. Across all of our gastronomic venues, our guests are given ample choice in terms of surroundings, menus and dining experiences. One thing they all have in common is a guarantee of delectable flavors; that, and wonderful skyline views from the venues’ terraces with the castle of Mystras basking in the background. Savor the refinement of each and every one of our carefully prepared dishes, created with the finest of local produce and loving care. The most sophisticated choices of Mediterranean cuisine, the favorites amongst international cuisine and a few creative dishes of our own, are all brought to you for your ultimate enjoyment.
Greek Breakfast:
We serve traditional Greek breakfast with fresh local ingredients.
Palataki Restaurant:
Our ‘little’ castle of flavor, Palataki Restaurant promises a gastronomic experience of regal proportions. An ode to fine dining, our elegantly balanced, a la carte selection allows you to choose every single dish of your personal, luxurious feast, starting from the very first meal of the day.
Elia Taverna:
For a more casual meal, our Elia Restaurant provides the perfect traditional local food, in a relaxed setting. There is so much comfort and wholesomeness in simplicity, yet there is nothing simple about your overall experience.
Doukato Restaurant:
You will immerse yourself in a world of authentic local flavours and aromas at the “Doukato” Restaurant in a fairytale setting, enjoying the romantic atmosphere by the illuminated pool, olive trees, bougainvillea and the bar. The gastronomic creations of the Mystras Grand Palace Resort team, will satisfy even the most demanding palates.
Byzantino Cafe:
The ideal place to enjoy your favorite beverage, accompanied by tasteful, moreish flavors that bring out the goodness in every bite and every sip. Our dessert selection is made by own pastry chef, fresh each time. Located on the ground floor with an outdoor seating area too, here you can expect to be wrapped in an utterly warm ambiance.
*Symposium Wine Bar:
A place specially curated for the wine aficionados and connoisseurs, the Symposium Wine Bar carries over 100 Greek and international labels, meaning our guests can taste the whole world in a glass.
Doukato Pool Bar:
Perfectly complementing the refreshing aura that our pool exudes, the Doukato Pool Bar, offering fresh juices and nibbles, is your place of reference for enhanced moments of poolside tranquility.
Location: Laconia Peloponnese
Located 268 km from Athens International Airport “ Eleftherios Venizelos”
94 km from Kalamata International Airport “Captain Vas. Konstantakopoulos ”, welcomes you again respecting all new protocols providing a safe environment for our guests and employees, based on the Certification System of TUV Austria “Covid Shield”.
Mount Taygetos:
will offer you one of the most beautiful mountaineering and hiking experiences as, in addition to the stunning nature that surrounds the trails, the mountain has exemplary signage of its paths (European path E4), making it a pleasant pastime even for the less experienced hikers. Furthermore, there is a possibility of being assigned a “mountain companion”, upon your request.
Mystras:
Our region has countless of interesting attractions and impressive sites to visit. You will be able to witness the past, the Ancient, the Medieval and the Byzantine that are all weaved into the charming contemporary tapestry of our homeland. Mystras: Saunter around the enchanting castledom and UNESCO listed archaeological site of Mystras , set at the foot of Mt. Taygetos. Visit the Mystras museums and the plethora of local monasteries, churches and chapels that are dispersed throughout the greater vicinity.
Sparta:
The ancient Greek city that bore a legendary legion of soldiers who have been immortalized throughout the eons, renowned for their bravery and courage. The revered and iconic bronze statue of the great Leonidas , their notorious leader, will greet you on your passage to visit the Acropolis of Ancient Sparta and its archaeological museum . Do not miss a visit to the Olive Oil Museum that showcases its importance to local livelihoods.
See more of Sparta’s attractions:
Manousiako Museum
Museum of Ecclesiastical Art
Koumantarios Gallery
A sensational array of monasteries, churches and chapels are patiently awaiting visitors to discover them. Explore the great concentration of monastic sites and revel in the sense of awe that these once sacred structures still exude.
1. Agion Tessarakonta Martyron Church (8 km from Sparta)
2. Agion Anargyron Church (12 km from Sparta)
3. Monastery of Panagia Zermpitsis ( 19 km)
4. Monastery of Faneromenis – Anavriti (17 km)
Tours & Excursions points of interest in Peloponnese:
Wonderful lagoons, old ports, caves and stunning beaches as you venture out into the greater region.
Diros Cave – 74 km
Lagoon of Gerakas – 102 km
Githeio – 47 km
Kalamata – 104 km
Limeni – 64 km
Monemvasia – 91 km
Mystras Grand Palace Resort & Spa
5 Nights
Peloponnese Greece
5 NIGHTS + ACTIVITIES:
FROM 850 €
[ cost per person in Double room ]
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