Experiencing Sparti, Greece for a Single Backpacker

 

I'm not writing these blog posts in order of experience. I'm writing them in order of inspiration. And right now, the little town of Sparti, Greece has set my heart on fire and I just want to put it into words. 

As a millenial full of pop culture references, the reason I wanted to come here is because of the movie "300" that tells the story of 300 Spartan soldiers nearly defeating but ultimately being defeated by the vast Persian army. After that defeat, the next year, 20,000 soldiers marched forth and defeated the Persian army in a sweeping victory. I wanted to come and see the statue of Leonidas; the powerful warrior who lead the Spartans. But when I got here, there was so much more to Sparti than the statue. I was met with mountainous surroundings, hiking trails, ancient ruins, a happening city center, and lots of things to see and experience. 

Most people that have been here will tell you that you need a vehicle to enjoy your experience but that's total bull. If you have 2 feet and a heartbeat, it may take awhile but you can walk anywhere. The hotel I was staying at was at least a 20 minute walk from anything but I just looked at it as a way to get more sun and more exercise. Also, it's a much better way to see the incredible mountain views and really take it all in. 

                            

Let's start with the hike I did to Mystras. The hike from Sparti to the town of Mystras itself is about an hour and a half from city center. Hiking from the city center to the archeological site is about 2 hours. From here, you take some side streets and eventually end up on a path walking through the olive groves. Endless trees that produce the best olives in the world. I personally don't like olives but I can appreciate one of nature's greatest productions and the process that goes into producing the oils that we all love to cook with. Wear good shoes, dress for the weather, and pack snacks/lots of water! 

The archeological site of Mystras is filled with an eventful and interesting history that is written in the stones with which it was built. You will see the monastery of Pantanassa, the palace, and the castle at the very top. At a steady pace, it takes about an hour and a half to climb to the very top. As I called the castle at the top in one of my videos, "the final boss", it really does feel like the climb is never ending. I vowed to make it to the top no matter what. I nearly got locked in so I could make it to the top. When they blew the whistle for everyone to come down, I took off at a run to make the last 100 feet to the top and I made it and feel like I nearly died doing it haha. By the time I reached he gate, he was just chaining it up! 

The hike to and through this ancient city will leave you with a lifetime of memories and it will leave you in awe of the structures and history.

Next, I will recommend the acropolis of Sparta. Another venture of ancient ruins. These were built between the 2nd and 10th century. The theater was part of the imperial era. I lost most of my photos of this when my phone got wiped. But I think I still have a couple. This doesn't cost a thing to see. Just walk through the gate! It's about a 17 minute walk from city center. As for ancient cities, this is one of my favorites that I've seen, other than the ancient city of Mystras of course. 

The only thing I regret about this town is not exploring more of the hiking trails in the area. This is the perfect town to get your hike on. Another great spot to check out is the museum of Greek olives and olive oil. There is a lot of history both mythological and factual in all parts of the Mediterranean, the Aegean, and so on to quench your thirst for knowledge. Again, I lost all my photos of this spot but I'm going to swing by again on my way to the bus station to see it again. I'll add pics once I have them. 

Then, there is always sitting having a local Spartan beer at a spot in city center and absorbing everything you're seeing. The people here are incredibly warm and hospitable. I can definitely say moreso than in Athens. Truth is, I didn't enjoy Athens at all. Not like this. I really should have stayed longer. This is the first time I'm leaving before I'm ready. This town is one you fall in love with, you get attached to, you get wrapped up in it's warmth. When you come to Sparti, you've come home. 

I hope when you go to Sparti, you will experience the same feeling of forever that I did. 

Love, Annie

xoxo