Highlights of Ilia WESTERN PELOPONNESE
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the land of ancient Olympia Located in the western part of Peloponnese, Ilia (also spelled Helia or Ileia) is an area of great historic value and amazing charms. Although it is best known for the site of Ancient Olympia, where the first Olympics took place, this marvellous destination is a treasure trove of both history and natural beauty, offering much more to explore. Spectacular hills, beaches, rivers, lakes, picturesque villages, they all form a magnetic destination for travellers in pursuit of quality and multi-thematic experiences. ANCIENT OLYMPIA is the place where the Olympic Games were born, and even today, every four years, the Olympic Flame is lit here before starting its journey to reach the city hosting the Games each time. The site covers an expanded area of ruins scattered among low trees, as well as the ancient stadium where the Olympics took place. An impressive array of artifacts which were unearthed during excavations are on exhibition at the nearby Museum.
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he capital of Ilia is Pyrgos. Its chief landmarks are the two exquisite neoclassical buildings designed by Schiller, the municipal market and the Apollo Municipal theatre. In the evenings the residents congregate in the paved main square lined by cafes, pastry shops and small taverns that serve local delicacies. Amaliada is a second great city of the province, with fairytale beaches in the west (Kourouta, Palouki, Savalia, Douneika) and verdant wooded hills in the east, offering opportunities for nature and history excursions. Zacharo and Lechena are two other major towns, whereas Kyllini is a lively town since it is the port that connects the mainland with the Ionian islands.
Golden Riviera The wonderful coastline landscape in the west of Ilia features long and beautiful beaches. From Kayafa beach and Arkoudi with its white sand to cosmopolitan Kourouta, quiet Glyfa, the blue waters of Zacharo, the golden sands of Skafidia and Loutra of Kyllini, Agios Andreas, Levedohori, Samiko, Vartholomio, the coasts of the land of Olympia have a beach for every taste.
