Destinations
15\01\2025
Exploring Platanos:
Nestled in the lush landscape of the Peloponnese, Platanos is a charming village with a rich cultural history. It is located near the spiliaklia river and is surrounded by fertile land, with fields of chestnuts, cherry trees, and ancient plane trees. Though not considered part of the Tsakonian region, Platanos shares many connections with its Tsakonian neighbors, and its own unique heritage makes it a fascinating place to visit.
The village is also known for its ancient plane trees, some of which are over a century old. These trees give the village its name, and they remain an iconic part of Platanos’s landscape.
A Village Steeped in History
While the exact date of the establishment of Platanos remains unclear, local tradition holds that the village’s origins trace back to settlers from the island of Aegina. This belief is rooted in the village’s distinct musical heritage—Platanos stands out for its use of the violin and lute, instruments commonly associated with the Islands, in contrast to the instruments used in surrounding Peloponnese villages.
A Vibrant Community Today
Today, Platanos is home to a small but resilient population. In the most recent census, the village had around 250 residents, but only 40 people live there year-round. The rest come from nearby cities, with some even living abroad and returning to the village for vacations. A few families run businesses in the village, including a local hotel and tavern, while others are farmers. The fertile land surrounding the village supports a wide range of crops, including chestnuts, cherries, figs, and oranges. Recently, some residents have started experimenting with tropical fruit trees like bananas.
Festivals and Local Traditions
Platanos hosts two major festivals that celebrate the village’s agricultural heritage. The Cherry Festival, which takes place in late May or early June, honors the village’s abundant cherry trees. The Chestnut Festival, held every October, celebrates the chestnuts for which the village is known. Both festivals feature traditional music, dancing, and delicious local food. However, due to a recent shortage of chestnuts, the Chestnut Festival has not been held for the past two years.
One of the most special places in Platanos is the “Χαρές” (Joy) parking area, located next to the river. The structure here resembles a washing basin, and it was once used by women for cleaning the marriage-related items, including wedding dresses. The tradition of washing wedding dresses at this spot gives it its name, “Χαρές,” which means “Joy” in plural. This unique tradition is not found in neighboring villages, making it a distinctive part of Platanos’s cultural.
Our recommendations
Platanos is blessed with stunning natural beauty. The Spiliakia River flows through the village, providing a vital source of water and creating picturesque scenery. The river features two large natural pools, which are perfect for swimming and offer a refreshing escape during the warmer months. Nearby, Melissi Waterfalls offer breathtaking views and are a great spot for hiking and photography. These natural wonders, along with the river, are central to the village’s charm.
For those who enjoy hiking, there are several trails that take you through the surrounding hills and forests. Two of the best hiking options are the Lapida Canyon and the Spiliakia Circuit:
Lapida Canyon: This hike offers both easier and more challenging options, depending on your level of experience. For the most vibrant scenery, spring is the best time to visit when the canyon is lush and the water is flowing.
Spiliakia Circuit: This hike also offers both beginner and experienced hiker options. The trail takes you through the picturesque surroundings of the Spiliakia River, passing by natural pools and leading to beautiful waterfalls. The easier parts of the trail offer a leisurely walk, while the more challenging sections take you deeper into the forest and up to higher viewpoints with panoramic views of the valley. Spring is also the perfect time for this trail, as the river and waterfalls are at their fullest, and the surrounding nature is in full bloom.
Whether you’re looking to cool off in the natural pools, take in the waterfalls, or enjoy a scenic hike, spring is the ideal time to experience Platanos in all its natural glory.
After a day of exploration, we recommend staying at the Anna’s Guesthouse, where you can enjoy the warm hospitality and comfortable accommodations. Indulge in delicious local food, and immerse yourself in the peaceful charm of the village, making your visit to Platanos an unforgettable experience.
