Kalavryta is a charming mountain town located in the north part of the Peloponnese, known for its rich history, beautiful landscapes, and as the starting point of the famous Rack and Pinion Railway (Odontotos). Whether you're interested in exploring Greece’s natural beauty, delving into its history, or enjoying a train ride through gorges, forests and mountains Kalavryta has something for everyone. This town is perfect for visitors looking for an outdoor adventure or interested in Greece's history.

One of the main attractions in Kalavryta is the Rack and Pinion Railway (Odontotos), a marvel of engineering that offers one of the most scenic train rides in Greece. The railway was built in 1896 to connect Kalavryta with the coastal town of Diakopto, providing a vital link between the mountains and the coast. Today, it remains a popular tourist attraction, known for its dramatic route through the Vouraikos Gorge, which is part of the Chelmos-Vouraikos National Park.

The journey begins in Diakopto, a small seaside town, and climbs steadily into the mountains, traveling 22 kilometers through stunning natural scenery. The train passes over bridges, through tunnels carved into the rock, and alongside waterfalls and steep cliffs. The highlight of the trip is the section through the Vouraikos Gorge, where the narrow track winds its way between towering rock faces and the crystal-clear waters of the river below. The combination of landscape and the peaceful sound of the river creates an relaxing and beautiful ambiance.

The railway uses a rack-and-pinion system for part of the journey, which allows the train to tackle the steep inclines of the gorge. This system features a cogwheel that engages with a toothed rack between the rails and makes the Odontotos train one of the few of its kind in Europe.

The journey takes about an hour each way, and many visitors choose to make a round trip, enjoying the stunning views in both directions. Along the route, you can stop at the picturesque village of Zachlorou, where you can explore traditional coffee shops and tavernas or visit the nearby Mega Spilaio Monastery, one of the oldest monasteries in Greece, dramatically built into the side of a cliff.

While Kalavryta is a town known for its natural beauty, it also carries a heavy history due to the tragic events of World War II. On December 13, 1943, the town was the site of one of the most horrific massacres during the Nazi occupation of Greece. In retaliation for resistance activities in the area, German forces executed nearly all the male population of the town and set fire to the buildings. Today, Kalavryta honors this tragic event with the Museum of the Kalavryta Holocaust, located in the old school building where many of the people from the town were initially detained.

The museum provides a important reminder of the atrocities of war, with photographs, personal accounts, and artifacts from the time. The Hill of Kapi, located just outside the town, is another somber but important site. A large cross and a monument stand in memory of the victims, and the site offers panoramic views of the surrounding area.

Despite its tragic past, Kalavryta has rebuilt itself and is now a thriving town that welcomes visitors from all over the world. Its history and its natural beauty, makes it a must-visit destination for those exploring the Peloponnese on a taxi tour.

For those who love winter sports, Kalavryta is also home to one of Greece’s largest and most popular ski resorts, the Kalavryta Ski Center. Located on the slopes of Mount Chelmos, just a short drive from the town, the ski center offers a variety of slopes for all skill levels, from beginners to advanced skiers. With stunning views of the surrounding mountains and excellent facilities, it’s a great place for a winter getaway.

Even if you’re not into skiing or snowboarding, Mount Chelmos is a beautiful area for hiking, especially in the summer months. The mountain is also home to the Cave of the Lakes, a fascinating underground cave system with underground lakes and impressive rock formations.

Beyond the railway and the town itself, Kalavryta is surrounded by stunning natural landscapes that are perfect for outdoor enthusiasts. The Vouraikos Gorge, which the Rack and Pinion Railway passes through, is a haven for hikers, with well-marked trails that follow the path of the railway. Hikers can enjoy breathtaking views of the gorge, its steep cliffs, and the river below.

The nearby Mega Spilaio Monastery, built into a steep cliffside, offers not only religious intirgue but also incredible views of the mountains. The monastery, founded in the 4th century, is home to impressive religious relics and is a peaceful place to visit after a hike or train ride.

For those looking to explore further, the Lake Tsivlou and Lake Doxa areas are also nearby, providing more opportunities for outdoor activities such as hiking, picnicking, and enjoying the serene mountain atmosphere.

Kalavryta is a town that offers a unique blend of natural beauty, history, and outdoor adventure. From the breathtaking journey on the Rack and Pinion Railway through the Vouraikos Gorge to the important history of the town’s past, there is something for every traveler. Whether you’re looking to ski on the slopes of Mount Chelmos, hike through stunning mountain landscapes, or simply enjoy the peaceful atmosphere of a traditional Greek mountain town, Kalavryta is a destination that promises both adventure and reflection.

Organise your taxi transport to Kalavryta from Nafplio with Taxi Hellas, go skiing in Kalavryta and come back at your own time with our taxi services in the Peloponnese.