Christian Tour To Corinth, Saint Patapios monastery and Vouliagmeni lake
Embark on a memorable private Christian tour of Corinthia in just one day… With its fascinating historical sites, affordable prices, and stunning coastal views, this hidden gem is waiting to be uncovered!
√ Ancient Corinth, rich in history and the chosen city of Apostle Paul!
√ Loutraki, the famous seaside destination! Saint Patapios monastery. The miraculous patron of Loutraki, Corinthia!
√ Heraion lake. The… other Vouliagmeni lake, turquoise, warm & white sand! Enjoy a visit to the unknown lake of Vouliagmeni, which is … not in Vouliagmeni Attica but in Perachora Loutraki.
Itinerary of the tour to Corinth, Epidaurus, Mycenae, Nafplion
Athens – Corinth Canal – Ancient Corinth – Osios (Saint) Patapios – Vouliagmeni Lake – Athens
- The famous Corinth canal
- Visit the house of Akila and Priscila
- The monastery of Saint Patapios
- The undiscovered Heraion lake – Vouliagmen lake
- The agora in Ancient Corinth
Corinth Canal
The tour starts from Athens early in the morning. We will be driving along the lovely and picturesque coastal road towards Corinth.
The first highlight of our tour is the Isthmus of Corinth and Corinth Canal. The Corinth Canal is an impressive man-made canal that connects the Gulf of Corinth with the Saronic Gulf in the Aegean Sea. The Canal is 6.4 kilometers (4 miles) long. Construction began in 1881, but was hampered by geological and financial problems and was not completed until 1893. However, the idea of a shortcut to save boats from sailing around the Peloponnese peninsula dates back over 2000 years.
We will have a short stop here for pictures and we will continue towards Ancient Corinth.
Ancient Corinth
Once your visit at the canal ends, we will journey to the historic Corinth. As a dominant force in the ancient world, Corinth held control over the Isthmus and its wealth and influence extended to numerous cities throughout the wider ancient Greek world, many of which were established as colonies. This serves as a testament to the power and prestige of Corinth during this time period.
In 146 BC, the Romans demolished this once-great city after the Greeks suffered a devastating defeat at the Isthmus of Corinth. Today, remnants of the ancient city can still be seen at the agora, where visitors can witness its former grandeur. Be sure to check out the grand columns of the Apollo Temple dating back to the 6th century BC, as well as the well-preserved market and Apostle Paul’s Step Conservatory, renovated by the famous Herod Atticus. Other public buildings of immense archaeological significance are also waiting to be explored.
Don’t miss out on a visit to the Corinth Archaeological Museum, one of Greece’s most notable and captivating institutions. Among its treasures, the museum proudly displays a remarkable 6th century BC archaic Sphinx in pristine condition, within four rooms and two galleries. You can also explore artifacts from the ancient Sanctuary of Asclepius and discover traces of a flourishing Jewish community during the time of the Romans, a community that was personally visited and later mentioned in a letter by the renowned Apostle Paul. Along the way, you will have the opportunity to savor a delicious lunch at a traditional Greek restaurant owned by a local family in the charming village of ancient Corinth.
Saint Patapios: The miraculous patron of Loutraki, Corinth
Nestled in the majestic Gerania Mountains, high above the bustling city of Corinth, lies the Holy Monastery of St. Patapios. This sacred place is home to a miraculous scene that has been preserved throughout the years. It stands as a testament to the enduring power of Orthodoxy and draws in countless pilgrims from all corners of the country every day. The devoted nuns who tend to this revered site have transformed it into a living monument of faith and devotion. Despite its relatively recent establishment in 1952, the monastery is rooted in a centuries-old hermitage that dates back to the 13th century.
The wondrous deeds of Saint Patapios have been hailed by believers as some of the most miraculous in our Church. Countless nuns have attested to the countless miracles that have been witnessed in his name, with many of them occurring in their very presence. One particularly striking account comes from a group of nuns who were tasked with journeying to Loutraki for supplies and other services on behalf of their monastery. In those moments, they were amazed to see that Saint Patapios was guiding and protecting them, shining a light ahead and leading them safely to their destination.
The magic lake of Heraion (Vouliagmeni lake)
Just a few meters from the expansive ocean, lies a serene and inviting blue lake. Connecting to the sea through a slim channel, the lake of Heraion (Vouliagmeni lake) boasts a modest depth of 40 meters and stretches only 2 kilometers in length and one kilometer in width. The lake’s sandy shoreline is accompanied by a narrow passage that effectively links its waters to the Corinthian Gulf. An intriguing feature of this aquatic gem is the 6-meter opening where the sea gracefully descends, creating mesmerizing whirlpools.
The lake boasts water that is significantly saltier than the constantly renewed tides of the high seas. The shallow waters gradually deepen, making it perfect for swimming well into the late autumn months. The most stunning beach can be found on the western coast, adorned with pristine white sand. Along the lake’s shores, you’ll discover charming, traditional taverns serving delicious fish and meat dishes for a satisfying lunch experience. We will now take the way back to Athens using the same way!
Considerations
During wintertime, there will be slight changes in the itinerary due to the fact that the archaeological sites close at 3 pm while remaining open till 5-7 pm during summertime. Athens Tours Greece offer you the chance to create your own plan and customize it staying on the same route based on your preferences and requirements, making the most of your valuable time. Also, the full-day tour is available for driving with a minibus or bus, for larger groups.
In this case, the itinerary can also be customized and will be shorter (due to international driving safety regulations), again based on your specific needs and requirements. Your private guide is at your disposal at any time to discuss and plan your private full-day tour accordingly.
Tour Type
- Shore Excursion – Private tour
- Activity level: Moderate
Included in the tour
- Transport by air-conditioned Mercedes-Benz vehicle or similar appropriate for the size of your group
- Your tour will be accompanied by a professional English-speaking driver or escort possessing in-depth knowledge of Greece’s history and culture. They will provide insightful commentary throughout the journey, guiding you until the entrance of archaeological sites and museums. However, please note that drivers are not licensed to accompany you inside these venues.
- If you desire a licensed state tour guide to escort you within the archaeological sites and museums, providing comprehensive insights and explanations, we can gladly arrange one for an additional cost. These licensed guides are freelance professionals, and their availability is subject to your tour date.
- When a licensed tour guide or English-speaking tour escort accompanies a group, the professional driver may not necessarily speak English fluently. Their role is focused on providing safe transportation.
- Pick up and drop off at your hotel in Athens. Extra charge for hotels outside Athens.
- Pick up and drop off at Piraeus Port or Athens Airport.
- Pick up and drop off at our terminal: Leof. Andrea Siggrou 37, 117 43 Athens, Greece.
- Accommodation is based according to availability (for multiple-day tours only)
- Road tolls and all local taxes
Excluded from the tour
- Wine tasting fee (for wine tours)
- Olive oil tasting fee (for olive oil tasting tours)
- Optional Gratuities
- Food and beverage
- Your private chauffeur/guide will discuss a program best suited to your interest and mobile abilities. Option for a professional tour guide with a state license at an extra cost. Read more for the Differences between a Tour Guide and a Tour Driver
Cancellation Policy
Additional info
- Dress Code: When visiting religious sites, shoulders and knees must be covered out of respect for the cultural norms.
- Please review our Terms & Conditions and Frequently Asked Questions
- Upon booking, an electronic voucher will be emailed to you containing our contact information, tour details, and all necessary instructions. This voucher serves as your ticket and proof of purchase. Please present a printed or digital copy of the voucher on the day of your tour to redeem your activity.
- City Tax for Hotel Stays: Effective from January 1st, 2018, a City Tax for hotel overnights is applicable and not included in our excursion rates. Clients will need to pay this tax directly at their hotel upon check-out. The amount per room is as follows: 5-star hotel: €4/overnight || 4-star hotel: €3/overnight || 3-star hotel: €1.50/overnight
- Opening Hours and Entrance Fees for Archaeological Sites and Museums in Greece
- Entrance Fees for Children from Non-EU Countries: Starting November 1st, 2019, children aged 6 and above from non-European Union (non-EU) countries will be required to pay the full entrance fee for Museums and Archaeological sites. For children from EU countries, the existing rates remain in effect. However, it is crucial to have their passports readily available to prove their nationality.
Persons with Disabilities
- Due to uneven surfaces, certain sites are not recommended for persons with walking disabilities or using a wheelchair. Such sites are the Acropolis, the Temple of Poseidon at Sounion, Mycenae, Delphi and Meteora
- In all cases, we recommend comfortable flat-solid walking shoes, sunglasses, and sunscreen.
