Frequently Asked Questions: All About Your Retreat in Greece.

It takes one day to travel around Mani, but a lifetime to understand it.

FAQ

  • The rugged Taygetos mountains, the clear Mediterranean light, and the vast Ionian Sea create an environment that clears the mind and invites profound reflection. Walking ancient paths that echo Homeric legends in this land of myth effortlessly reconnects you with your purpose. The traditional cultural and agricultural practices offer fresh perspectives on sustainable leadership. Mani’s landscape and heritage aren’t just beautiful—they are truly transformative.

  • We’re deeply rooted in Thalames, a village where time seems to stand still. Our ancestors grew up in an archaic world, long before modern amenities arrived. The road to Kalamata was built in 1958, and electricity didn’t come until the 1980s. Life was simple, sustainable, and circular—waste didn’t exist. Through the stories of the elders in the village, we can vividly imagine what daily life was like here: a world where people lived in harmony with nature and community. Walking through the village today, you’ll still find traces of this timeless way of living. For us, it’s a powerful and inspiring reminder of what’s possible when simplicity and sustainability are at the heart of life.

  • Kalamata Airport is conveniently served by flights from several European cites. From Kalamata, you can reach Thalames in about 1.2 hours by rental car or by the KTEL bus, which runs several times daily. If you’re coming from Athens, there’s a direct KTEL bus once a day, and by car, the drive takes around 4 hours. See also the map below.

  • Renting a car is the best way to explore the area. It gives you the freedom to enjoy the coastal beauty at your own pace and to visit remote, traditional mountain villages that public transport doesn’t reach.

  • You have many options, whether in Thalames itself or in nearby villages. We can recommend anything from traditional mountain homes to luxury resorts by the sea, depending on your budget and preferences.

  • Our retreats are held in spring and autumn to avoid the summer heat. In April-May and September, daytime temperatures reach a pleasant 25°C, with comfortably warm evenings. During the olive harvest in November, the days remain mild, though the evenings can be chilly. With sunshine most days of the year and the sea inviting for a swim year-round, Greece offers an ideal setting for reflection and renewal.

  • Mani really offers something for everyone. You can explore ancient heritage sites and traditional villages, hike or bike through the mountains, paraglide over breathtaking landscapes, or unwind on secluded coastal beaches. We’re happy to arrange boat trips and special excursions as an additional service upon request. Culinary experiences here are exceptional, with local flavors that will become unforgettable highlights of your stay.

  • The Mani landscape is rough and wild. We adapt our program to all fitness levels, but weather-appropriate, solid clothing is essential—think long outdoor trousers, hiking boots and sun-protective headgear. If you plan to swim or snorkel, don’t forget to pack your gear, such as swimsuits or snorkel masks.

  • Our retreats are thoughtfully designed to balance structured coaching with time for reflection and exploration.

    Executive Leadership-Coaching Retreat (5 days):

    o   Arrive Sunday evening for a warm welcome.

    o   Coaching sessions take place each morning on Monday, Tuesday, Thursday and Friday, with afternoons and evenings free for personal exploration.

    o   Wednesday is a day off to fully immerse yourself in the region.

    o   The retreat concludes with a traditional Mani lunch on Friday.

    Olive Harvest Team Incentive (3 days):

    o   Arrive Sunday evening for a welcome session.

    o   Day 1 focuses on team development.

    o   Day 2 combines leadership training with hands-on olive harvesting.

    o   Day 3 centers on communication, creativity, and innovation.

    o   We close with a celebratory lunch and a presentation of the premium organic olive oil produced by your team on Day 3.

    Outdoor Experience Retreats (flexible):

    o   Tailored to your needs, these retreats can last from one day to a full week, featuring single mountain tours or multi-day hikes through the Taygetos mountains.

  • No specific preparation is required for the retreat. We’ll focus on the questions most relevant to you and tailor the program to your needs. If you’d like a preview of the region’s spirit, we recommend Patrick Leigh Fermor’s travel memoir Mani—a truly inspiring introduction to this extraordinary place.