Where is the Western Region of Greece?
The Western Region of Greece is made up of the western part of mainland Greece, as well as the northwestern part of the Peloponnese peninsula.
It is the 4th largest region of Greece.
The capital city is Patras, the third largest city in Greece.
The Western Region is separated into three areas:
– Aetolia-Acarnania in central Greece
– Achaia
– Ilia (or Elis) in the Peloponnese
These three areas are even further divided into smaller areas:
– Mesologgi
– Agrinio
– Aigio
– Amaliada
– Patras
– Pyrgos
– Nafpaktos
What does the Western Region of Greece have to offer?
There are three airports:
– Araxos
– Aktion
– Messolonghi (private)
And six ports:
– Patras
– Killini
– Katakolo
– Amfilochia
– Egio
– Messolonghi
If you look at the map, you’ll see that there is a long coastline that borders this region:
– The Ionian Sea
– Kyparissia Gulf
– Patras Gulf
– Corinthian Gulf
Agriculture
There are many agricultural products, such as:
– Olive oil
– Fruits (lemons, oranges, watermelon, kiwis)
– Honey
– Vegetables
– Wine (see wineries below)
– Dairy products
– Livestock (Aetolia-Acarnania is best in organic livestock production in Greece)
– Fish farming
Tourism
The Western Region of Greece is blessed with many beautiful natural environments, such as lagoons, lakes, rivers, forests, caves, mountains, beaches, and even a ski center in Kalavrita.
Many new hotels and new investments in the area are making the western region one of the top tourism destinations in Greece.
There is plenty to see, such as Medieval and Byzantine castles, monasteries, and museums. Popular archaeological sites are the Archaeological Site of Olympia, and the Temple of Zeus in Stratos.
Beaches
Popular beaches include Kakovatos Beach, Skafidia Beach, Kourouta Beach, Palouki Beach, and Vathiavali Beach.
Restaurants
There are many excellent restaurants and places to eat, especially in popular areas such as Nafpaktos, Patras, Pyrgos, Amaliada, and Agrinio.
Wineries
Olympia Land Winery
The family run winery at Olympia Land Estate is just five minutes from the archaeological site. Tours and tastings are available.
Achaia Clauss Winery
Achaia Clauss Winery was founded in 1861, and is the oldest winery in Greece. Since 1908, the winery has specialized in the production of the Mavrodaphne wine (sweet red). This winery is a popular destination for visitors.
Mercouri Estate Winery
The Mercouri Estate Winery is located near the village of Korakochori, 12 km from Pyrgos. With 150 years of history in the production of quality wine, it is a popular spot for tourists. Managed by the Kanellakopoulos family, there are 13 different wines to choose from. Extra virgin olive oil made from the Estate’s privately-owned olive groves is also available.
Rouvalis Winery
Located in Aigialeia, the main grape varieties that are cultivated at Rouvalis Winery for white wine are Roditis, Malagousia, Assyrtiko, Chardonnay, Kudonitsa, Malvazia, Robola, Assyrtiko, Sauvignon Blanc, Chardonnay, Riesling, and Viognier. The red wines include Mavrodaphne, Cabernet Sauvignon, Cabernet Franc, Syrah, Petit Verdot, and Merlot.
Stavropoulos Estate Winery
Ktima Stavropoulos is a small family-owned winery. It is located close to Ancient Olympia, and to some of the best beaches of mainland Greece. Stavropoulos Estate Winery opened in 2000 and is certified organic.
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See some of our Western Region recipes here.
Do you have a recipe from this region that you love? Share it with us!