Dimitsana played an important role during the Greek War of Independence (18th-19th centuries AD), being in the center of the many water-powered gunpowder mills hidden in Lousios Gorge. Sunrise on the mountains is absolutely worth the effort of an early wake-up call. Your first excursion of the morning
is to the magnificent Temple of Apollo Epicurious nestled in the lonely heights of the Arcadian mountains. The design may seem familiar to you and that is because it was designed by Iktonis, the architect of the Parthenon. Unusual in its display of Doric, Ionic, and Corinthian style, it is a breathtaking sight indeed.
You will then journey on to the logic-defying Church of Agia Theodora with its remarkable roof that sustains the weight of the plane trees which grow from it! Learn the rather gruesome tale of how the church got its name and relax by the calming river that flows through this woodland spot. For lunch, you will head to the neighboring taverna to enjoy a fresh meal and a quiet calm.
For the afternoon, you will travel to a family-run farm, where you can enjoy idyllic surroundings as you walk amongst the animals that roam freely. At this smallholding, you will encounter all sorts of animals from deer to rabbits, geese, horses, and donkeys (keen to see if you have an apple)! Enjoy an afternoon coffee, cake, and some therapeutic company of Arkadia’s friendly furry friends! After a drive back to your hotel in Dimitsana, enjoy a free evening to relax and enjoy dinner with a sundowner.
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Dimitsana or Stemnitsa
