5 days of experience, connection and discovery – where summer finds its meaning
Joy, fun, a sense of family, teamwork and love are just some of the words participants themselves have used to describe the NextGen Vamvakou Camp. Returning for its second year, the program invites 40 teenagers aged 12–18 to take part in a unique five-day daytime experience in Vamvakou, Laconia, from July 6 to July 10, 2026.
The program is part of the Vamvakou Revival initiative, implemented by the non-profit organization Vamvakou Revival through the exclusive support of the Stavros Niarchos Foundation.
A truly authentic experience!
Creativity & expression without AI
– Songwriting workshop with renowned rapper Anser, where thoughts turn into words and self-expression finds its own voice.
– Happening Now: Art in Everyday Life happening by the Stavros Niarchos Foundation Cultural Center (SNFCC), where imagination and collective thinking lead to unexpected ideas and creative outcomes.
– Chess workshop with internationally recognized chess player Maria Petsetidi, who famously drew against legendary world champion Garry Kasparov at a young age.
A journey into the universe beyond screens
Led by the Sparta Astronomy Association “Dios Kouroi”, as part of the Panhellenic Amateur Astronomers Meeting at the Parnon Mountain Refuge.
– Solar observation (daytime) using solar telescopes with H-alpha filters
– Sky mapping using specialized laser pointers (green lasers)
– Telescope observation & “SmartEye” technology – with photos that participants will be able to share on social media
– Astrophotography, including smartphone field photography and Deep Sky astrophotography
Discovery, connection & teamwork
– Bushcraft experience in the forest, learning basic outdoor survival skills
– Hiking and connecting with nature
– Cycling with HAIBIKE e-bikes while exploring the village
– Archery & fencing, encouraging focus and self-discipline
– Team games & challenges that strengthen collaboration and group dynamics
– Group gathering with pita gyros
Daily Schedule
From 9:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. Departure and return take place daily from Sparta. Transportation to and from Vamvakou is provided through dedicated bus routes. Transportation, meals, everything is organized for you!
09:30 – Departure from Sparta
10:30 – Welcome session
10:45 – Introduction and group activation activities (participants bring a snack from home)
10:45–12:45 – Creative Workshops / Outdoor Sports Activities
12:45–14:00 – Free time, relaxation, games (basketball, football, table tennis, etc.) & lunch provided by the organizers
14:00–16:00 – Creative Workshops / Outdoor Sports Activities
16:30 – Departure for return trip
And what about the last day?
It ends with something participants are unlikely to forget: a shared gathering with pita gyros and a night under the stars of Mount Parnon.
Please note: The schedule on July 10, 2026 will differ due to the closing ceremony. Departure from Sparta will take place at 3:30 p.m., while departure from Vamvakou for the return trip to Sparta will be at 11:00 p.m.
For participants living outside Sparta and the surrounding area, accommodation for the participant and their accompanying guardian is available at the Traditional Guesthouse of Vamvakou at a special rate. Contact us for more information!
