Katakolon / Olympia Shore Excursion - This private tour visits the site of Ancient Olympia and the family owned farm Magna Grecia.
After meeting your local guide you immediately depart for the remarkable site of Olympia, where the first Olympiad was held in 776 B.C. in honor of the Olympian Zeus. Its setting could not be more idyllic: in the middle of a fertile valley with the rivers of Alphios and Kladhios flowing past.
Upon arrival, you will meet your Olympia guide specialist for a walking tour of the site which was a sanctuary even before the Stadium was built and the games took place in the sacred area called Altis. The most imposing monument in this area was the outstanding Temple of Zeus housing the gold-and-ivory statue of Zeus, one of the seven wonders of the ancient world.
The Temple of Hera, the Prytaneion, and the Philippeion were also monuments standing in the sacred grove. The famous Stadium, the largest of its day with a capacity of 45,000 spectators, is entered through a long, tunnel-like passage, constructed in Roman times.
After visiting the ancient site you will visit the archaeological museum which is close by. Among the great finds of the area that are displayed here are the Head of Hera and the superb statue of Hermes of Praxiteles. You will also admire ornaments from the Temple of Zeus, the famous statue of Hermes created by Praxiteles and the helmet of Miltiades, the Athenian general during Athens' 'Gold Age.'
Next, you depart for the family owned farm Magna Grecia for an authentic Greek experience where you can immerse yourself into the lush natural surroundings, sample olive oils, wines, local recipes and entertain yourself with locals. Your tour includes a tour of the farm and lunch.
At the end of the tour you return to the pier in Katakolon.