Olympia Greece - Epic Bucket List Adventures

Our visit to Olympia was made even more memorable by our stay at the Europa Hotel, a gem nestled in the heart of this historic region. From the moment we arrived, we were greeted with warmth and hospitality that made us feel right at home.

A Perfect Location with Stunning Views

Hotel Europa perches on a hill overlooking the Alpheios River valley, offering breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape. The hotel’s location provided a serene escape from the hustle and bustle of daily life, allowing us to fully immerse ourselves in the tranquility of the area. The lush gardens and olive trees surrounding the property added to the peaceful ambiance, making it the perfect place to unwind after a day of exploring Olympia.

Comfort and Elegance at Europa Hotel

The hotel itself is a blend of modern comfort and classic elegance. Our room was spacious, with a balcony that offered stunning views of the valley. The décor was tasteful, with a nod to traditional Greek design, creating a cozy and inviting atmosphere. We appreciated the attention to detail. The bed was modestly comfortable. The bathroom was well-appointed. Overall, the room was above average.

Photo of room as depicted on website. This is a good representation of our room.

Exceptional Dining Experience

One of the highlights of our stay at Europa Hotel was the exceptional dining experience. The hotel’s restaurant offers a delightful menu of local and Mediterranean cuisine, made with fresh, seasonal ingredients. We enjoyed a memorable buffet dinner savoring delicious local dishes while watching the sunset over the valley. The combination of exquisite food, stunning views, and warm hospitality made for an unforgettable evening.

Exploring Olympia with Ease

The hotel’s convenient location made it easy for us to explore the archaeological site of Olympia and the surrounding area. After a day of sightseeing, returning to the comfort of Europa Hotel felt like coming back to a peaceful retreat. The staff was always ready with helpful tips and recommendations, ensuring that we made the most of our time in this historic region.

Ruins at the nearby Olympia UNESCO World Heritage site.

A Memorable Stay at Europa Hotel

Our stay at Europa Hotel in Olympia was a comfortable but short stopover during our trip around Greece. The combination of comfortable accommodations, stunning views, and exceptional service made it a memorable experience. Whether you’re visiting Olympia to explore its ancient ruins or simply seeking a peaceful getaway, Europa Hotel offers an excellent blend of relaxation and luxury.

If you ever find yourself in Olympia, we highly recommend staying at Europa Hotel. It was a short visit, but offered a serene and welcoming environment. We enjoyed our stay and would visit again.

Read more about our Two-Week Tour of Greece!

Our journey through Greece led us to the legendary site of Olympia, the birthplace of the Olympic Games. It is a place that holds immense historical and cultural significance. Walking through the ruins of this ancient sanctuary, we could feel the echoes of the past. Athletes from across the Greek world once gathered here to compete. Olympia is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

A Walk Through History: Entering the Sacred Grounds

As we approached the archaeological site, the grandeur of Olympia began to unfold. The site, nestled in a lush valley, is surrounded by olive trees and rolling hills, creating a serene atmosphere that felt almost timeless. The Alpheios River flowed nearby, adding to the sense of tranquility that enveloped the area.

I believe this was the Gymnasium at Olympia

Our exploration began at the entrance to the sanctuary, where we were greeted by the remnants of the ancient gymnasium and palaestra. These structures, once used by athletes for training and preparation, provided a glimpse into the rigorous physical conditioning that was central to Greek culture. It was fascinating to imagine the athletes of antiquity honing their skills in these very spaces.

The Temple of Zeus: A Monument to the King of the Gods

As we moved deeper into the site, we reached the Temple of Zeus, one of the most important monuments in Olympia. Although only a few columns remain standing, the sheer scale of the ruins hinted at the temple’s former magnificence. This was once the home of the Statue of Zeus, one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World. Created by the sculptor Phidias, the statue stood over 40 feet tall, depicting Zeus seated on a throne, adorned with gold and ivory.

Standing in the shadow of the temple ruins, we marveled at the engineering and artistry that went into constructing such a monumental structure. The temple was a focal point of worship, where athletes and spectators alike would have paid homage to Zeus, seeking his favor before the games.

The Stadium: Where Legends Were Made

Next, we made our way to the ancient stadium, the very heart of Olympia. The stadium, with its long track and grassy slopes, was where the Olympic Games took place for over a thousand years. Standing at the starting line, we couldn’t help but feel a connection to the athletes who once competed here. The stadium was flat and simple, and its absence of grandstands highlighted the purity and spirit of the ancient games.

Track at Olympia ruins. — OLYMPUS DIGITAL CAMERA

Walking across the stadium, we could almost hear the cheers of the crowd and the pounding of feet. Possibly because we ran our own “race” and were cheering each other on. It was easy to imagine the excitement and intensity of the competitions, where victory was not just a personal achievement but an honor for one’s city-state.

The Philippeion and the Echoes of Power

Our visit also included the Philippeion, a circular monument dedicated to Philip II of Macedon and his family. This elegant structure, with its columns and sculpted decorations, was a reminder of the political and cultural influence that Olympia held beyond the athletic competitions. The site was not just a place of sport but also a center for diplomacy, where alliances were forged.

Reflections on Our Visit

Visiting the archaeological site of Olympia was a profound experience that connected us to the roots of the Olympic Games. We also felt connected to the rich cultural heritage of ancient Greece. The ruins, though weathered by time, still conveyed the spirit of competition, devotion, and excellence that defined this sacred site.

We left Olympia with a deep appreciation for the ancient Greeks’ dedication to physical and intellectual pursuits. Their ability to create a historic legacy has endured for millennia. For anyone passionate about history, sports, or Greek culture, a visit to Olympia is an unforgettable journey into the past. The echoes of ancient athletes still resonate here.