Another enjoyable summer is approaching, and Vamvakou, the small village of Mount Parnon is getting ready to host a great athletic running event and a diverse weekend full of unique experiences for all. Cycling and hiking rides across the mountain trails, relaxing massage sessions, STEAM, clay and messy play, and endless hours of play, make up a varied programme of activities implemented by Vamvakou Revival, as part of the Vamvakou Revival initiative, thanks to an exclusive grant from the Stavros Niarchos Foundation (SNF).
STEAM, creative activities, and free play on the mountain
Every weekend in Vamvakou, free time is spent creatively and carefreely. At V.Lab (Vamvakou Technology Lab fully powered by SNF), science and tradition are intertwined while making rustic soap (7 June) and beating off the most exciting challenges in robotics (8 June). Using our imagination and natural clay, clay play stories breathe life into some of our favourite fairy tale characters (14 June). At the Vamvakou School, free play (22 June) goes on until either our energy or the battery of the Oculus Quest 2 VR devices run out.
Walks and wellness on summer Saturdays
On June’s Saturday mornings, meet us in nature! Let’s reach together the historic cave monastery of Agia Kyriaki (7 June) and walk to the magical location of Longous (21 June) situated right in the heart of the forest. And if you prefer an adrenaline-filled excursion, you can opt for mountain biking (14 June). Saturdays in nature are completed with relaxing moments at the Traditional Guesthouse, where afternoon massage sessions are held for limited appointments (7, 14 & 21 June). Book yours!
Vamvakou Mountain Run | Sunday, 15 June 2025
As we are getting prepared for the 5th Vamvakou Mountain Run, registration is open until 8 June, and on Sunday 15 June, experienced and amateur runners will cross green trails through three routes of 7, 19 and 29km! The day before, Dean (Konstantinos) Karnazes and Jo Manta, two of the world’s most influential runners, will give an inspirational talk at Vamvakou Square highlighting the value of sportsmanship (14 June), followed by a pasta party! On the race day, mud, paint and other natural materials will be available for messy play at the playground (15 June).
Vamvakou Experience Festival 2025 | 28 & 29 June 2025
Just before welcoming July, the Vamvakou Experience Festival returns with a wealth of experiences (28-29 June). This year’s stories will be embellished with music, dance, gastronomy, wellness, and creative workshops, among other activities, in an open interaction between visitors and the local community.
Vamvakou Summer Camp 2025 | 16 – 27 June 2025
Schools may be closing, but summer adventures at Vamvakou School are about to begin! A full, daily activities programme starts again this year, offering renewed experiences for elementary students from Sparta and the wider region, who will be visiting Vamvakou daily for two weeks, filling the village with laughter!