Alpheus, the largest river in the Peloponnese, is not just an impressive natural landscape, but a river full of stories and legends. In mythology, he was a river-god who fell in love with the nymph Arethusa and followed her to the waters of the island of Ortygia. This myth of eternal love travels with the waters of the river, passing through Karytaina, Ancient Olympia and ending in the Kyparissia Gulf.
Today, Alfeios continues to enchant visitors with its natural beauty and the abundance of activities it offers. You can go rafting in the narrow passages near Karytaina, where arched bridges and dense forests create a scene straight out of a fairy tale. Or, if you prefer tranquility, you can enjoy hiking along its banks, discovering the rich flora and fauna of the river. Trout and carp live in its clear waters, while around Alfeios you can encounter rare birds and wild animals.
The presence of the river has always been important to the inhabitants of the area. In ancient Olympia, the river was associated with purification rituals during the Olympic Games, giving a symbolic and religious dimension to the landscape. Today, it is a magnet for nature and adventure lovers, making it one of the most vibrant destinations in the Peloponnese.
