Where to stay in Zacharo: The best areas and 26 accommodations

Zacharo is located in the west of the Elis region, between Pyrgos and Kyparissia, approximately 35 km from Ancient Olympia. The area combines a small provincial town with two of the most well-known coastal neighbourhoods of the western Peloponnese, Kakovatos and Kaiafas, and for this reason, it attracts people who want sea, peaceful holidays, and easy access to Olympia.

If you're wondering where to stay in Zacharo, the first thing you need to decide is whether you want to stay in the town itself, with shops and tavernas within walking distance, or if you prefer to be closer to the beach, in Kakovatos or by Lake Kaiafas. The distances are short, around 5 to 10 km, so with a car, you can easily travel between the areas.

In this guide, you will find the three main accommodation areas, the advantages and disadvantages of each, as well as 26 accommodations with indicative prices, allowing you to choose based on your budget and holiday plans.

What to see and do in Zacharo

Zacharo is built on a small hillside, a few kilometres from the sea, and functions as the commercial centre of the region, with banks, pharmacies, supermarkets, and a daily market. The town doesn't have a tourist character, but it is a convenient base if you want to combine your holidays with visits to Ancient Olympia, which is about 35 km away and can be reached in about 35 to 40 minutes by car via the old national road. Access to Zacharo is mainly by road. From Athens, the distance is about 280 km and the journey takes around 3 hours via the new Corinth - Patras - Pyrgos motorway. The closest city with a railway connection and larger infrastructure is Pyrgos, about 27 km away, while the nearest airport is in Kalamata, about 100 km further south.

Kakovatos is Zacharo's most popular coastal area, with a sandy beach several kilometres long that is considered one of the best in the western Peloponnese. The water is usually shallow at first and gradually deepens, making it a convenient choice for families with children, while the waves from the open Ionian Sea also make it popular with bodyboarders. In Kakovatos, you'll find organised sunbeds, beach bars, and tavernas serving fresh fish, mainly during the summer months from June to September.

Kaiafas has a different landscape, as here the beach borders a dense seaside pine forest and Lake Kaiafas, a lagoon with thermal waters that have been used since antiquity for therapeutic purposes. There is a small bridge connecting the mainland to an islet in the lake, where baths operate. The shade of the pine forest makes the area ideal for the hottest hours of the day, while the beach in front of the forest is one of the most photographed in Ilia.

Food in Zacharo and the surrounding villages is based on fresh fish, grilled octopus, and traditional Peloponnesian dishes, such as kokoretsi and boiled goat, depending on the season. The area also produces olive oil and wine from the surrounding vineyards, and many establishments serve local olive oil at the table. Seasonality is an important factor: from mid-June to late August the area is at its peak, with most accommodations and restaurants open, while in May, September, and October you'll find quieter beaches and lower prices, although many accommodations close outside of summer.

If you enjoy hiking or exploring, a stroll along the foothills of Mount Lapithas, above Kaiafas, is worthwhile, as is a visit to the ruins of ancient Samikon, an ancient settlement near the lake. The distance from Zacharo to Olympia easily allows for a day trip, and if you have more time, you can combine your trip with Pyrgos and the thermal baths of Kyllini, further south towards Kyparissia.

Zacharo has a long history dating back to prehistoric times, with findings from the neighbouring hill of ancient Samikon indicating organised life in the area as early as the Mycenaean era. Its name is linked to Byzantine origins, while during the Ottoman period it served as a small commercial centre of western Ilia. Today, the town maintains the character of a provincial centre, with a daily street market and small shops serving both permanent residents and visitors to the surrounding beaches.

The best areas for accommodation in Zacharo

Zacharo town

The town of Zacharo itself is a good base if you want access to shops, pharmacies, and restaurants all year round, without being in a tourist camp. The sea is about 5 km away, so you'll need a car for daily trips to the beach.

Advantages:

• Everyday amenities and shops within walking distance
• Lower accommodation prices compared to the beach
• A good starting point for an excursion to Ancient Olympia

Disadvantages:

• A car is needed for the beach
• Less tourist activity in the evening

Recommended accommodations:

1. Rex Hotel - Bebeka's
A family-run boutique hotel at the entrance of Zacharo, with simple and clean rooms. A good choice for those who want to stay close to the town centre.

• Average cost: approximately 55€ per night

2. Hotel Diethnes
An old, well-known hotel in town with modest rooms and affordable prices. Convenient for an overnight stay when travelling south.

• Average cost: approximately 45€ per night

3. Hotel Jenny
A small hotel in the centre of Zacharo with friendly service and basic amenities for a short stay.

• Average cost: approximately 50€ per night

4. Hotel Europa Olympia
A hotel with spacious rooms, suitable for families who want a base between Zacharo and Olympia.

• Average cost: approximately 60€ per night

5. Neda Hotel
A simple town hotel with basic facilities, close to shops and cafes.

• Average cost: approximately 48€ per night

6. Hotel Olympion Asty
A central hotel with traditional aesthetics, convenient for visitors who want to explore the town on foot.

• Average cost: approximately 52€ per night

7. Grigoriae
A small apartment accommodation in town, suitable for longer stays with a self-catering kitchen.

• Average cost: approximately 58€ per night

8. Country House near Olympia
A traditional country house inland, ideal for those seeking tranquility and easy access to Olympia.

• Average cost: approximately 70€ per night

9. Maria's Home
A family apartment in Zacharo, a good choice for couples seeking independence and a quiet neighbourhood.

• Average cost: approximately 55€ per night

Kakovatos

Kakovatos is the first choice for those who want accommodation right by the sea, with an organised beach, sunbeds, and tavernas just metres from the water. The area fills up in July and August, so it's wise to book accommodation early.

Advantages:

• Direct access to a sandy beach
• Many tavernas and cafes by the sea
• A good choice for families with children

Disadvantages:

• Heavy traffic on summer weekends
• Many accommodations close out of season

Recommended accommodations:

10. Ostria Hotel Kakovatos Beach
A beachfront hotel in Kakovatos with comfortable rooms and sea views. One of the most recognised options in the area.

• Average cost: approximately 95€ per night

11. Hotel Alkionis
A hotel at the town's entrance, near Kakovatos, with simple rooms and easy access to the beach and Olympia.

• Average cost: approximately 60€ per night

12. Thea Luxury Residences
Luxury apartments with modern design, suitable for couples who want something more updated near the sea.

• Average cost: approximately 120€ per night

13. Olympion Village Studios
Studios with kitchens, a good choice for families who want independence near Kakovatos.

• Average cost: approximately 65€ per night

14. Olympic Village Hotel & Spa
A larger hotel complex with a pool and spa, among the most complete options in the area for family holidays.

• Average cost: approximately 130€ per night

15. Olympian Altis Hotel
A hotel with a garden and pool, in a quiet spot near Kakovatos, convenient with or without a car.

• Average cost: approximately 85€ per night

16. Vians Olympia Resort
An apartment-style resort with communal areas, suitable for larger groups or families.

• Average cost: approximately 100€ per night

17. Ionion Star Hotel
A hotel near the coast with simple decor and good value for money.

• Average cost: approximately 70€ per night

18. Holiday Garden Zacharo
Apartments with a garden, a quiet option for those who want to avoid the bustle of the main beach.

• Average cost: approximately 68€ per night

19. Casa Rosa Villa
A small villa with a private area, suitable for couples or a small family seeking more privacy.

• Average cost: approximately 90€ per night

20. Kakovatos Guest Rooms
Budget-friendly rooms near the beach, a good option for a short stay on a limited budget.

• Average cost: approximately 50€ per night

21. Zissi's House
A traditional house with a courtyard, ideal for those who want a more homely atmosphere near the sea.

• Average cost: approximately 62€ per night

22. Potokia Rooms
Simple rooms in a quiet part of Kakovatos, with easy walking access to the beach.

• Average cost: approximately 55€ per night

Kaiafas

Kaiafas stands out for its pine forest that reaches the sand and for its lake with thermal waters. It is quieter than Kakovatos and attracts people seeking shade, nature, and relaxation, as well as visitors specifically coming for the baths.

Advantages:

• Natural shade from the pine forest
• Quieter atmosphere than Kakovatos
• Opportunity for thermal baths in the lake

Disadvantages:

• Fewer accommodation options
• More limited nightlife

Recommended accommodations:

23. Elion Ionian Olive House Sea View
Accommodation with sea views amidst olive trees, near Kaiafas, suitable for peaceful holidays.

• Average cost: approximately 80€ per night

24. Mina Apartments
Apartments with a kitchen near the Kaiafas pine forest, convenient for families who prefer to cook their own meals.

• Average cost: approximately 65€ per night

25. The Yard Place
A small accommodation with a courtyard, in a quiet spot near Lake Kaiafas.

• Average cost: approximately 60€ per night

26. Harpyia
Traditional accommodation near the Kaiafas forest, offering simple lodging and a peaceful environment.

• Average cost: approximately 58€ per night

Practical tips for your stay

• Book early for Kakovatos in August. Kakovatos beach gets crowded on July and August weekends, and the best accommodations near the sea sell out early. If you want a specific date, book at least a month in advance.
• Take a car if you're staying in town. Zacharo is about 5 km from the sea, so without a car, you'll need a taxi or the few local routes to get to the beach daily.
• Combine your stay with Ancient Olympia. The distance of 35 km allows for an easy day trip without changing accommodation. Start early in the morning to avoid the heat at the archaeological site.
• Choose Kaiafas if you want shade. The pine forest of Kaiafas offers natural shade throughout the day, which is useful in July and August when temperatures in western Peloponnese rise considerably.
• Ask about seasonality before booking outside of summer. Many small accommodations in Kakovatos and Kaiafas operate only from May to October. Confirm availability by phone if you are travelling in early spring or late autumn.

Frequently Asked Questions

How far is Zacharo from Ancient Olympia?

Approximately 35 km, a journey of about 35 to 40 minutes by car via the old Pyrgos - Olympia national road.

Which is the best area for families with children?

Kakovatos, due to its sandy beach with relatively shallow waters at the beginning and the many tavernas near the sea.

Do I need a car for Zacharo?

Yes, it helps a lot, especially if you're staying in town and want to go to the beach daily or visit Olympia.

When is the best time to visit?

June and September offer warm seas and fewer crowds compared to July and August, which are peak season.

What is Lake Kaiafas?

A lagoon with thermal waters next to Kaiafas beach, known since antiquity, with a small bridge leading to an islet where baths operate.

How far is Zacharo from Athens?

Approximately 280 km, a journey of about 3 hours via the Corinth - Patras - Pyrgos motorway.

Conclusion

Zacharo is not a destination with extensive tourist infrastructure, but this is precisely what makes it attractive for those who want peaceful holidays with good beaches and easy access to Ancient Olympia. Depending on what you're looking for, Kakovatos caters to those who want an organised beach, Kaiafas to those seeking shade and tranquillity, and the town itself to those who want everyday amenities at a lower price.

With 26 accommodations to choose from, ranging from simple rooms to more modern apartments, you can find something that suits your budget and travel plans. All you need to do is book early if you plan to travel in July or August.

See also our guides for where to stay in Agkistri and where to stay in Anafi.