Even though we had a lot of driving this particular day, we decided to take the scenic Old Kalamata-Sparta road in Greece to our next destination. We were driving from Monemvasia to the Ancient Messene Archeological site, which is a bit of a drive no matter which route you take. The Old Kalamata-Sparta Road was a bit out of the way and add in the fact the road runs through the beautiful Taygetos Mountains of Greece we knew it would take longer, regardless, we choose the scenic way and are so glad we did!
Location
The Old Kalamata-Sparta road itself is about 35 km and takes 45 min to 1 hour depending on stops. It follows along route 82. We were headed to Messene Archeological site and were staying near Areopoli in the Mani that evening. We were in no hurry as we really had no other plans as we had visited sites along the way such as Sparta and Mystras earlier The drive on the Old Kalamata-Sparta road was lovely and very scenic.
The Old Kalamata-Sparta Road
We had no problem finding the Old Kalamata to Sparta road. Google Maps took us there with out a hitch and after driving through Sparta, we spotted road signs pointing the way. It was a bright and beautiful day, but again, as per the norm for this trip, it was quite hot. So riding through the mountains with the aircon on was a great way to explore this road! Note that I was the passenger navigating, taking photos through the windows and Steve was driving!
A Beautiful Drive
The drive along rout 82 is nothing less than spectacular. The road curves up to the top of the beautiful Taygetos mountains and drops down into ravines where you can see caves in the ravine walls. You also pass under two imposing cliffs through unique tunnels carved into the rocks. The day was beautiful with the sun shining and the skies blue. We saw very few other vehicles along the way. It was just as beautiful as our drive to Vresthena just a couple days earlier.
Stops Along the Way
Along the way we saw a memorial and stopped to see what it was. It was honoring a fallen firefighter. I love the way Greece places so many memorials to their heroes along their highways and in their towns. There are various places set up along the road for spices and honey. We stopped at one roadside table and bought some Greek oregano, and mint. We also stopped at another spot, up in the mountains, and bought some honey from the gentleman in the photo (he gave permission for the photo). Once we were home, we found it to be some of the best honey on our trip! All in all, a very enjoyable time.
Although it is hard to find and buy true Greek Honey in the States, I continue to buy honey Klio Tea’s as they have several choices. In addition, the honey is always delicious and delivered on a timely basis. I buy Mountain Tea and Olive Oil from them as well!
Conclusion
I would definitely recommend a drive on the Kalamata to Sparta Road if you are in this area of Greece. It is a beautiful drive and a great way to see this area of the Peloponnese.
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To the Top of Monemvaisa-August 2024
Exploring Ancient Sparta-August 2024
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Ancient Nemea Greece-August 2024
Ancient Mycenae Greece-August 2024
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