Greece: A Land For All Seasons

Whether there’s snow or sunshine, the Greek region of Arcadia in Peloponnese is a natural playground that delivers year-round

Being the Greek god of nature, Pan knew a thing or two about eye-widening landscapes. It’s no coincidence, then, that he was born in the rugged mountains of Arcadia, where he loved nothing more than to recline in the region’s lush gorges, green meadows, forested peaks and clear rivers.

Arcadia’s natural beauty is only interrupted by the occasional medieval village, remote enough for traditional culture to still reign supreme. It’s hard to believe this wild corner of Greece is only a two-hour drive from Athens, so it’s easy to visit after a few days wandering the capital. Plus, Arcadia’s unspoilt vistas don’t just look spectacular in summer: they’re equally picturesque in winter, spring and autumn. This really is a land for all seasons…

SPRING BLOOMS

Locals know that spring is on the horizon when the soft white almond blossom bursts forth. They call this tree the ‘crazy one’ because of its extremely early flowering, but the almond is the leader of a bunch of blooms, from wild daffodils to bee orchids, which turn Arcadia’s wildflower meadows into a sweet-scented blanket buzzing with bees and butterflies. Hiking is one of the best ways to admire this pastoral paradise, with the 75km-long Mainalo Trail winding through lush gorges, verdant valleys and ancient villages hugging mountain slopes. The aromas of oregano, sage and thyme add another element to your springtime stroll, as though you’re walking in nature’s own private herb garden. At one end of the trail lie the stone houses and Byzantine churches of Stemnitsa, a village renowned for its gold and silversmiths: in spring, you can visit the workshops they host to help prolong their tradition.