one foot on the mountain

arriving in Exochori by car

From Kalamata airport there is now a new bypass that takes you around the town. Follow signs for Kalamata initially and then just stay on this road as it heads south to Mani. It reverts to a local road and continue to follow signs for Mani, Areopoli, and Kardamili. This road soon climbs out of Kalamata and you should have the sea below you on your right. Stay on this road as it winds inland and over the mountains southwards. After 40 minutes you should get new panoramic views down the peninsula, and see Kardamili below you. Continue on the road as it rejoins the coast.

Pass through Kardamili, and look out for left hand turn signposted "Exochori 8km" and "Proastio 4km". Take this turn and now stick with this road as it climbs and snakes upwards.

The road goes through the village of Proastio, with its impressive 13th Century church. Keep following main route and eventually you reach the edge of Exochori.

Pass cafe/kafenion "To Pefko" by a large pine tree. Continue on as the road takes a large loop around the village and look out for signs to "Me Thea" country restaurant.

Pass the restaurant "Me Thea" on the right. Keep going and after 300m look out for a large white footprint painted on the road at the top of a cobbled path on the right. Park well in to the left hand side of the road as the early bus has to pass here.