Private Tour to the Temple of Apollo Epicurius at Bassae

The Temple of Apollo Epicurius at Bassae stands at 1,131 metres above sea level in the mountains of Arcadia — one of the most remote and atmospheric UNESCO World Heritage Sites in Greece. Designed by Ictinos, the same architect responsible for the Parthenon in Athens, it was built by the citizens of Phigalia in gratitude to Apollo for deliverance from a plague in the 5th century BC. The temple is covered by a large protective tent that gives it an otherworldly appearance; inside, the carved frieze panels (now in the British Museum in London) are represented by detailed casts. The journey through the mountains of Arcadia is itself a remarkable experience.

Tour highlights

• The Temple of Apollo — Best-preserved ancient Greek temple in the Peloponnese after Hestia at Olympia. Oriented north–south (unusual), with the earliest known Corinthian capital and a unique interior arrangement.

• The mountain landscape — Wild upland country between the Neda Gorge and the high peaks of Arcadia; oak forests, spring wildflowers, extraordinary views.

• Andritsaina village — 14 km below the temple; preserved 18th-century mountain village with a historic library, square and traditional tavernas.

• Neda Gorge viewpoint — Optional stop on the return journey.

Suggested itinerary (full day)

• 08:30 Pick-up from Kalamata, Costa Navarino or Messinia

• 10:30 Arrive Bassae — temple visit (1–1.5 hours)

• 12:00 Andritsaina — lunch at a traditional taverna

• 13:30 Explore the village on foot (library, market street, fountain)

• 15:00 Return journey (optional Neda Gorge viewpoint)

• 17:00–17:30 Back at your accommodation

Our service

• Luxury sedan (Mercedes E-Class class) — couples & solo (up to 4)

• Luxury minivan (Mercedes V-Class class) — families & groups (up to 8), room for luggage

Cancellation

Free cancellation up to 48 hours before departure. Later cancellations or no-shows may be charged in full — confirm with the partner when booking.

Good to know

Duration: full day, approximately 8–9 hours

Distance from Kalamata: ~95 km · about 1h 30min (mountain road via Megalopoli)

Distance from Costa Navarino: ~105 km · about 1h 45min

Best for: architecture enthusiasts, remote landscapes, visitors who want something less crowded than the major sites

What to bring: warm layer (cooler at 1,131 m even in summer), comfortable walking shoes, camera, sun protection

Road note: mountain road — private transfer strongly preferable to a self-drive rental

The protective tent (since 1987) shields the stone from snow, ice and UV; visits possible in any weather