The Olympia Trail
Where athletes competed for glory and poured wine libations to Zeus.
Chapter 2 of Dionysian Odyssey · Greece
The stops
- Adventure · Price: moderate Ancient Olympia Archaeological Site The birthplace of the Olympic Games (776 BC). Athletes competed here for nearly 1,200 years, and wine was central to the festival - libations to Zeus, victory celebrations, and the symposia that accompanied the games. The Temple of Zeus once held the 40-foot gold and ivory statue, one of the Seven Wonders. Walk the original stadium where athletes ran for olive wreaths.
- Winery · Price: moderate Mercouri Estate - Olympic Legacy The Mercouri family has made wine near Olympia since 1860. Their estate cultivates Refosco (brought from Italy) alongside indigenous varieties. The historic cellars and museum show six generations of winemaking, while tastings include rare Mavrodaphne sweet wine. The connection to ancient Olympia is palpable - these hills grew vines during the original games.
- Winery · Price: high Katogi Averoff Winery - Mountain Excellence High in the hills above Olympia, Katogi Averoff produces elegant wines from both Greek and international varieties. The estate combines modern winemaking with respect for terroir, and the mountain setting offers spectacular views. Their Rossiu di Munte (Mountain Red) is a blend that captures the wild character of Peloponnese mountains.
- Adventure · Price: low Isthmia Archaeological Site The fourth Panhellenic Games site, home to the Isthmian Games honoring Poseidon. Less visited than Olympia or Delphi, Isthmia offers authentic archaeological exploration. The sanctuary, stadium, and Roman baths show athletic culture spanning centuries. Victors received pine wreaths and, like all Panhellenic victors, celebrated with copious wine.
- Adventure · Price: moderate Ancient Corinth Archaeological Site Ancient Corinth was notorious for luxury and pleasure. The Temple of Apollo, ancient agora, and famous Peirene Fountain remain impressive. Corinthian wine amphorae have been found throughout the Mediterranean, evidence of extensive wine trade. The museum displays drinking vessels and symposium equipment from a city famous for its parties.
- Winery · Price: moderate Tetramythos Winery - Mountain Organics At 750-1000 meters elevation on Mount Chelmos, Tetramythos produces organic wines from native Peloponnese varieties. Panayiotis Papagiannopoulos farms challenging mountain slopes to create wines of intensity and elegance. Their Roditis and Mavro Kalavritino showcase indigenous varieties rarely seen outside Greece. Essential for understanding mountain viticulture.
- Adventure · Price: low Olympia Traditional Olive & Wine Festival The annual harvest festival in late autumn celebrates the twin pillars of Greek agriculture: wine and olive oil. Local producers gather to share their new vintages and fresh-pressed oil. Traditional music, dancing, and abundant food make this an authentic Dionysian celebration. Dates vary - check locally for specific timing.
The story
The original Olympic Games included wine at every stage. Complete your Panhellenic journey with Isthmia and experience modern winemaking that honors this heritage.