A beautiful, mountainous settlement built at an altitude of 1,033 m, on Mount Mainalo, it stands out for its traditional architecture, for its large central square –where everything happens– and for the beautiful, dense forest that surrounds it. Vytina is undoubtedly a must-see autumn and winter destination, a mountainous location that will fill you with warmth and cosiness and a relaxing escape within countless pine, fir, and chestnut trees.
The village bas been known since ancient times with Pausanias mentioning a city called Methydrio, in 174 BC, on whose ruins it is believed that Vytina was built about 4 centuries later. The settlement has no more than 650 permanent residents, however, from September onwards it’s bustling with life. The fireplaces are lit, and the restaurants fill with travellers eager to try the best local products (meat certainly has a leading role), after enjoying a long walk on exciting hiking trails through one of the most beautiful forests of the Peloponnese.
In Vytina, all walks always start at the central square, with a hot cup of coffee at one of the many cafés that have tables outside, under heaters. You can also browse the traditional delicacies sold in the dozens of shops in the area. One thing is for sure, you won’t leave here without having first purchased the fine honey of Vytina or one of the delicious cheeses produced in mountainous Arcadia. And, of course, the delicious, handmade hilopites (traditional Greek pasta) that you’ll surely taste at one of the restaurants in the village.
What you’ll see
The church of Agios Tryfonas
Overlooking the central square is probably the most famous sight of the village. The church of Agios Tryfonas, built in 1846 with grey marble, is a true landmark of Vytina and the place where both locals and visitors arrange to meet.
It’s also worth visiting the interior, to admire the impressive murals and the well-built dome and the grand crystal chandelier that hangs there. The settlement celebrates its patron saint on the 1st day of February with a big celebration in the centre of the village.
Folklore Museum
Also, on the central square of Vytina, the Folklore Museum is a true revelation, home to many historical exhibits related to everyday life in this large Arcadian village. Agricultural and farming tools, traditional costumes, looms, household utensils, historical documents, and many photographs from Vytina of the past, reveal a lot about the economic and social evolution of the place, which is now considered one of the most popular stops of mountainous Peloponnese.
The Path of Love
One could say that the beautiful “Path of Love” in Vytina has been, for mountainous Arcadia, what the Zappeion was for 19th century Athens. There, under the blossoming maple trees, young girls and young men of the village met on their afternoon walks to get to know each other better. Many great loves were born during the endless back and forth under the tall trees or at the small clearing where today families and groups of friends go for picnics. Without a doubt, it’s the most romantic stop in the settlement with plenty of history and undeniable natural charm.
Kernitsa monastery
Just before you enter Vytina, following the road that leads to the village of Nymphasia, you will come across the historic monastery of Kernitsa, an ancient monastery dating back almost 1000 years. Historical evidence proves that it is the oldest monastery in the entire Arcadia, a monastery built within the dense trees, at a spot with a spectacular view of the gorge of Milaontas. A visit here is truly worth it, even if your only motivation is to admire this magnificent location.
Hiking trail in the gorge of Milaontas
The area and the lush woodlands around Vytina offer unforgettable hiking trails among a perfectly scenic, mountainous landscape. For a dose of adventure, set off from the village towards Elati, crossing the gorge of river Milaontas. On a route that disappears into unspoilt nature, you’ll pass over small wooden bridges, come across old stone watermills, stop for lunch next to streams and enjoy the cool mountain air. This hike takes about 2.5 hours but is so refreshing that you’ll return from it rested and refreshed.
Where to eat
“To Tsipouradiko tou Panteli”
“To Tsipouradiko tou Panteli” is a must for a meal. Housed in a beautiful traditional stone building, it serves delicious appetizers and excellent meat cooked to perfection. Try the tigania (meat sauteed in wine) and the liver with the wonderful orange sauce.
“Kokkina Pitharia”
A very good traditional tavern with a cosy fireplace in the large hall. In a central point of the settlement, “Kokkina Pitharia” is famous for its well-roasted wild boar and the delicious beef patties. But also, for many more. Fresh salads, rabbit stew, goat stew, all cooked in the traditional way of the mountainous villages of Greece.
Liaropoulos traditional bakery with a wood-burning oven
Delicious fresh bread, kneaded in the traditional way of mountainous Arcadia, and excellent rustic pies, along with amazing pastries that you’ll think about for a long, long time. Liaropoulos‘ traditional bakery with its wood-burning oven is one of the most historic spots in the village; it first opened just before the end of the First World War, in 1917, and has been baking large quantities of its fine delicacies every day ever since.
Stop here for the perfect take-away breakfast, but also for a slice of amazing galatopita (traditional custard pie) or melt-in-your-mouth cookies and biscuits.
The Liaropoulos traditional product shop, where you can buy local cheeses, traditional pasta, and the best spoon sweets is equally popular.
Read also:
Quaint little café in Arcadia takes self-service to the next level
The best taverns in the mountain villages of Arcadia
6 quality food and drink spots in Peloponnese mountain villages Vytina, Dimitsana
