Mount Taygetos

Also known as the “male mountain”, Taygetos rises imposingly a few kilometers east of Kalamata. It rises to 2,407 m and is about 115 km long. It is the natural border between Messinia and Laconia and extends all the way to cape Taenaro (Matapan).

Its rich vegetation mainly includes black pine trees and firs. Additionally, it has rich flora (over 700 plant species, 28 local endemic) and bird fauna (85 bird species, the most important being the golden eagle, the short-toed snake eagle, the Bonelli’s eagle, the peregrine falcon and many migratory birds).

It is also known for its impressive canyons with deep slopes, such as Vyros (which can be approached through Kardamili) and Rintomo (that ends on the coast of Santova). The purely natural beauty of the mountain, and its unique ridge – one of the longest alpine routes in Greece – have made Taygetos a top destination for all year round mountain sports (hiking, climbing, mountaineering). Another point of reference is the Tourist Kiosk, situated in the magnificent landscape of, Alagonia, on the Kalamata-Sparta route.

Many picturesque villages lie on the Messinian slopes of Mount Taygetos; they have rich history, traditional buildings, important religious pilgrimages and excellent natural surroundings.