Excursion Nectars of the peloponnese tour at Gytheio

Travel by coach an hour north of Gythion, crossing the Laconian plains under the imposing shadow of Taygetus Mountain to reach Sparta. Unlike the famously basic town of legend, today’s Sparta is a modern large city – and home to a venue devoted to that quintessential Greek fruit, the olive.

The Olive Museum

The Museum of the Olive and Greek Olive Oil highlights the cultural and symbolic importance of the olive tree, and celebrates the luscious consumables made from its bounty – a history traceable back some 50,000 years. From fossilized olive leaves to ancient clay tablets inscribed in Mycenaean ‘Linear B’ script  and ponderous stone crushing presses, the museum’s fascinating exhibits illustrate the evolution of olive oil production from antiquity through the early industrial era. Your visit will immerse you in, well, all things olive.

The Wine Estate
Barely 20 minutes down the road sits a sprawling estate devoted to the potables produced from fruits of a different variety: the vineyards of Theodorakakos. Once held in high esteem by the nobles of the Byzantine Empire in Constantinople, the wines produced here on this family estate remain elevated in stature to this day. Among the varietals you will learn about and taste during your leisurely visit are rare local vintages crafted in the traditional fashion such as Kydonitsa and Mavroudi. You’ll no doubt find yourself agreeing with the Byzantines as to their delightful flavor. At the end of your winery tour and tasting, reboard the coach for a scenic drive back to Gythion pier

Points of interests

Points of interest seen include: Sparta, Olive Oil Museum, Theodorakakos Winery

Note

Please note: This moderate excursion involves approximately 1.6 km/1.0 mi of walking and standing along uneven surfaces, unpathed paths, cobblestones, and inclines. Some 10 steps must be navigated at the museum and winery. The tour is not suitable for guests who utilise a wheelchair or have limited mobility. Bottled water is included onboard coach. Wear comfortable, lightweight clothes and non-slip walking shoes; bring along your preferred sun protection. The order of sights and activities may vary.