Little-known Greece destination offers all the perks of Crete but without the crowds

If you fancy a stunning holiday but aren’t quite as excited about the hordes of crowds and expensive attractions, then this gorgeous peninsula could be the answer to your prayers.

The Peloponnese is a huge peninsula on the southernmost tip of mainland Greece. It has a history that dates way back to the Bronze Age, as well as beautiful beaches and coasts and delicious food.

‘The Peloponnese is the stuff of legends. Literally,’ says Lonely Planet. ‘It is here that Hercules fought the Nemean lion and gods walked the earth’.

It’s also where the first ever games took place in 776BC, as well as home to the warrior nation of Sparta and the Gates of Hades.

For lovers of Greek mythology and legend, the Peloponnese is absolutely unmissable, where every step you take is linked to rich cultural history. 

The food is also worth a trip in itself.  The Peloponnese peninsula has recently been crowned the world’s second-best food destination by Taste Atlas.

According to the win came from 477,287 ratings for 15,478 foods in their database and the Peloponnese has earned the second highest average score of all the food regions in the world.

A spokesperson said: “Fresh seafood is abundant in the region, and it is often grilled or baked with herbs and lemon. The region is known for producing high-quality olive oil and it is home to some of Greece’s most famous wines, including Nemea and Mantineia.”

As it’s in Greece, the weather is beautiful throughout the year. Off-peak in spring and autumn temperature will hover around 20 to 25 degrees, and the crowds will be leaving.

If it’s winter sun you crave, then the colder months are usually around 12 to 16 degrees – still temperate but maybe pack a jumper. 

Getting to the Peloponnese is easier than you might think. The gateway to this region is Kalamata International Airport, which has direct flights from the UK. currently has flights for as low as £127 leaving in February.