Stemnitsa in mountainous Arcadia

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Perched on the Menalon, Stemnitsa is one of the most beautiful and touristic villages, but without losing any of its special character, in mountainous Arcadia.

• Accommodation in Stemnitsa
• Photos from Stemnitsa
• Sightseeing

Built at an altitude of 1,100 metres, during the Greek Revolution it was the favourite hiding place and the main centre of excursions of the great Theodoros Kolokotronis. Its current name is of Slavic origin, meaning ‘place of shady and wooded’ and is due to the mountainous and special nature of the Arcadian landscape.

However, according to mythology, Stemnitsa was built by Ypsounda, son of the Arcadian king Lycaon, and was named Ypsous: the name by which it is still known today. The visitor to the village can enjoy strolls along the stone cobbled streets following routes that start from the picturesque central square and pass by some imposing tower houses and under chestnut, walnut and cherry trees. One such characteristic route is the one to the hill with the Heroon of the fighters of 1821.

After a gentle ascent through the narrow alleys of the village, the view really compensates the visitor while some mornings when the fog prevails you may find yourself above the village which will gradually begin to reveal itself offering you a unique view as on the right and below you will see the picturesque Stemnitsa, while around it the imposing, usually snow-covered mountain peaks of Mainalon.

Photos from Stemnitsa in mountainous Arcadia

Back to photos from Stemnitsa| Accommodation in Stemnitsa

Stemnitsa, although “surrounded” by destinations such as Mainalo with its dense fir forest, the ski resort of Ostrakina and some wonderful routes between Alonistaina, the imposing Dimitsana), the gorge of Lucius and the Monasteries of John the Baptist and Filosofos, has the power to keep those who choose it for short getaways close to it.

The first image of the village, with the large stone houses spread on the surrounding hills, is impressive, while the rest can be made even better with a visit to the cafes of the square for a local dessert (famous are the fly agate). Of course, eating at the local taverns with their delicious meats and homemade pies is highly recommended.

Don’t forget to visit the organized and very rich Folklore Museum, which has been operating since 1985 and is housed in two buildings, the first of which is a three-storey house of the 18th century! Also, the School of Silversmithing (open on weekdays) keeps alive the particularly rich tradition of the place in silversmithing and metalworking. Visit one of the village workshops. This way you will admire up close or even buy some handmade jewellery.

Rooms and hostels in Stemnitsa

You will find several good solutions for your stay in this picturesque village of Arcadia. The now famous Bellaiko of Nena with its unique breakfast area, the traditional rooms with fireplace and the amazing view from above to Stemnitsa and the Arcadian mountains has great reviews.

Guesthouses in Stemnitsa from booking (opens a new page/tab)

Access information to Stemnitsa

From Athens via Tripoli-Chrysovitsi (198 km) or via Vytina-Dimitsana (212 km). Access from Chrysovitsi is more difficult in winter with frost and snow, so if these weather conditions prevail, choose the other route which has a better road network, wider in most places.

Sightseeing / Activities

• The Folklore Museum of the village is particularly remarkable. To find out information about the opening hours visit it:www.stemnitsamuseum.gr or call 27950-81252).
• The gorge of Lucius, if the weather permits and you have the appetite and equipment suitable for walking.
• The chapel of Metamorfosis. You arrive by car in the middle of the road to Dimitsana. It has a panoramic view of the gorge of Lousios.
• The Monastery of Saint John the Baptist. Above Lucius and “hanging” from a high and steep rock, this famous monastery dominates. Its spectacle will enchant you.
• The Stemnitsa Heroon (Monument to the fighters of 1821) on a hill overlooking the village, for a wonderful view, lots of history and sunset.

Access map to Stemnitsa

Μη παραλείψετε μια επίσκεψη στη μοναδική Μονή Αγίου Ιωάννου Προδρόμου.

Σε κοντινή απόσταση από τη Στεμνίτσα και τη Δημητσάνα. 

Επισκεφτείτε την πανέμορφη Δημητσάνα

Διαμονή στο Μπελλαίϊκο, Στεμνίτσα, ορεινή Αρκαδία

Guesthouses in Stemnitsa from booking.

Useful phone numbers-Stemnitsa

• Folklore Museum: 27950 81252
• School of Silversmithing (T.E.E.): 27950 81227
• Health Centre of Dimitsana: 27950 31401-2
• City Hall of Trikolon Stemnitsa: 27950 81387, 81237, 81280
• Police (Dimitsana): 27950 31205