Location
The Southern Peloponnese has some of the cleanest coast-line and sea-water in the Mediterranean due to the lack of heavy industry in the area.

The population is low, and spectacular mountain scenery gives a sense of space. The soil is fertile and provides for the healthy, southern Mediterranean diet.

The region around Kalamata (which means beautiful eyes) is particularly known for its olives, figs, and citrus fruits. The area has become known for its healing properties, providing escape and a place for personal growth.

The property is sited just outside the tiny village of Pedino, nestled on the lower, gentle slopes of the Taygetos mountain range with dramatic sea views and sunsets. The site comprises a secluded olive garden with 52 olive trees, a few almond trees and other fruit trees. Locally there are lovely walks from the Retreat into the hills and mountains with some beautiful villages with their tavernas, chapels and cafes to explore. The spectacular Vyros Gorge, with a multitude of walking routes is only a 10 minute walk away. The nearest beach is in Kardamili, a 20 minute drive away on a good road, and there is an excellent choice of sandy or pebble beaches along this stretch of coast.

This part of the Peloponnese is as yet undiscovered by mass-tourism. The tourists that do stumble across it tend to be Greek, thus maintaining its relaxed, Greek way of life. To view photographs of the spectacular surrounding scenery go to www.richardgarveywilliams.com and view the Greek Landscapes gallery.

Sunset view from terrace

The retreat gives a sense of being a long way from the excesses of modern living, and yet is only a 45 minute drive from Kalamata, a cosmopolitan town with excellent shops, bars and restaurants all set against the spectacular back-drop of the Taygetos mountains. Slightly further afield are some fantastic ancient ruins - ideal for day-trips.

Weather

This region enjoys a wonderful, dry climate through most of the year - good for mind, body and spirit!
Summers are long and warm, and winters mild. There are very few mosquitoes and midges.

Average daily temperatures for the month are shown below in degrees centigrade.

The Garden

The grounds total 2,162 square metres, spanning 1 to 3 terraces of olive grove on a hillside overlooking the village of Pedino and the sea below. There are 50 productive olive trees, 3 almond trees, 2 fig trees and a few other small fruit trees that we have planted.

Entering the property via a sliding metal gate there is a large gravelled parking area suitable for 2 or 3 vehicles.

Beyond the 2 buildings the property extends to an area we call 'the secret garden' with a stone seat and table and vegetable plots.

Elsewhere there is a small wooden building with a ceiling light and electric socket. We have used this building as a massage therapy room, but it could equally be used for creative writing or simply as a workshop or garden shed.

The Swimming Pool

The internal measurements are 10.4m by 4m, so it is a good size for some serious swimming! The filtering system is located in a discretely concealed pump house, where there is also space to store tubs of chlorine tablets and pH regulators. There is the facility to heat the pool using the diesel fired boiler that also provides for the central heating of the buildings. An insulating cover floats on the surface to help keep it warm and clean in the cooler months.