Trail-blazing the Menalon Trail in the Peloponnese peninsula

We’re hiking the Menalon Trail, a 45-mile path through the wild Peloponnese peninsula. Marked by red ‘M’s, it’s Greece’s first ‘Leading Quality Trail’ recognized by the European Ramblers Association. On Foot Holidays offers a six-day, self-guided trip from village to village, following ancient tracks and benefiting local communities. 

We start each day’s hike with route notes, water, and packed lunches from our hosts. The trails vary in difficulty, with options to shorten them using provided taxis. The Menalon Trail, named after the central massif, leads us through diverse landscapes, from open uplands to peaceful forests and lively meadows, all teeming with wildlife. 

We pause at shrines and hermitages, some abandoned, others still in use. One peculiar find is the tiny Sfyrida cave church, carved into a steep ravine. Even though it’s a warm day and the climb is sweaty, an eerie sensation creeps over me as I step inside. Could it be the presence of Pan, the god of the wild? The region of Arcadia is steeped in Greek mythology. During one of our walks, we’re joined by Ioannis Lagos, a Menalon Trail founder and a resident of Stemnitsa, a village known for its narrow alleys and terracotta-topped houses, famous for its goldsmiths. 

“Many thought we were crazy,” says Ioannis as we cross streams on new bridges. “But the villagers believed. Some opened shops and inns, while others became guides and path volunteers. The trail is revitalizing these ancient communities.” Hospitality is warm. We’re welcomed into village homes at day’s end. Hosts offer fresh garden produce, and dinners feature local specialties like barbecued lamb or rabbit with homemade rosé. 

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