Welcome to the very heart of the Peloponnese, where Greece’s fourth largest prefecture will impress you with its nature and heritage. Nature abounds here, as Arkadia – or Arcadia – is considered a haven for eco-tourists and hikers.

The area has even left its mark on European art and literature, such as Nicolas Poussin’s paintings dubbed Et in Arcadia Ego. Arcadia’s capital Tripoli works well as a hub for discovering the eco treasures and attractions of this region.

The 7 most beautiful villages of Arcadia:

Dimitsana

One of the most beautiful villages in mountainous Arcadia is Dimitsana, where you can find impressive monasteries, the Lousios Gorge and the fir-covered Mount Mainalo. You will also find the historical library with its rare books and the small church museum in the renovated house of Patriarch Grigorios. 

Stemnitsa

One of the most popular destinations for people to walk in its alleys. The traditional art is still practiced in the goldsmith's workshops, and you can obtain handmade jewelry and copies of rare coins. Suggestions for short walks away from the main street with the tower houses are the Palamideika district, the uphill path leading to the Mother of Water (spring), the slope of Pera Meria, the Aeraki cave and the Fountain of Life Monastery with its water mill.

Lagadia

The village of Lagadia is a destination suggested to lovers of traditional architecture to visit the traditional villas like the famous "Deligiannis", which belongs to one of the most historical families of the place. The village is developed for tourism and has taverns, cafes and guest houses.

Kastanitsa

The village of Kastanitsa is one of the most picturesque villages on mountain Parnon with traditional architecture and probably the best place to find peace and relaxation. The main avenue leads uphill to the ruins of the Byzantine tower of Kapsampelis. There is also a road through a beautiful chestnut forest that leads to the monastery of Kontolinas and is often used for mountain biking.

Kosmas

The village of Kosmas has a cobbled square with plane trees, cafes, taverns and sea view, which is a beautiful destination in both winter and summer. A road to the chapel of Agios Ioannis starts at this place and ends in the heart of a beautiful chestnut forest.

Prastos

It is a historical village that was exposed to arson and you can still visit the ruins of the main temple. In summer the village is crowded with people, but in winter the big tower houses made of stone stand empty and remind of a ghost town.

Ano Doliana

It is a village with great views of the Tripoli plain and the mountains of Mainalo and Helmos. It is famous for its production of white marble. It is a traditional settlement, with well-preserved stone houses and mild tourist development.

Arcadia Drone video: