Tourism Decline in Kalavryta as Suspension of Iconic Odontotos Train Service Slows Visitor Arrivals

Published on December 16, 2025

The suspension of the famous Odontotos Rack Railway service has taken a significant toll on Kalavryta’s tourism sector, leading to a 30% daily drop in tourist traffic. The halt in the historic train service, which has long been a key attraction for visitors, has created a ripple effect throughout the local economy. Hospitality businesses, local shops, and restaurants have all reported an immediate decline in arrivals, underscoring the town’s heavy reliance on this transportation route for tourism.

The Odontotos Rack Railway, which connects the town of Kalavryta with the city of Diakofto, is not only a key tourist attraction but also a vital mode of transportation for visitors to the area. The suspension of services has left many tourists unable to access one of Greece’s most scenic destinations, further affecting the already fragile tourism industry in the region.

The Economic Impact of the Suspension

The suspension of the Odontotos service has had a noticeable impact on the local economy, which is largely dependent on tourism. According to K. Dafalias, a prominent local tourism advocate and business owner, the drop in daily tourist arrivals is significantly affecting businesses. Both the hospitality sector, including hotels and guesthouses, and local shops are experiencing immediate decreases in sales and bookings.

For businesses that cater primarily to tourists, this drop in foot traffic is a major setback. With the suspension of the train service, many potential visitors have opted to stay away, choosing instead destinations with more accessible travel routes. The train ride, famous for its picturesque views of the Greek countryside, was a key attraction for visitors coming to Kalavryta. The lack of alternative transportation options has exacerbated the problem, leaving businesses without the necessary customer flow to remain viable.

The impact is felt across the board, from accommodation providers in Kalavryta to restaurants and souvenir shops that cater to the needs of tourists. Local entrepreneurs who rely on the seasonal influx of visitors are calling for immediate action to restore the Odontotos service to ensure the survival of their businesses.

A Domino Effect Across the Region

The suspension of the Odontotos train service has created a domino effect that is impacting not only Kalavryta but also surrounding areas. Many tourists who would have visited Kalavryta as part of a broader trip to the Peloponnese region are now bypassing the town altogether. With limited accessibility, many visitors are opting to travel to other nearby destinations with better transport links.

Kalavryta, known for its scenic beauty, historical significance, and outdoor activities like skiing and hiking, is one of the main tourist draws in the region. Without the train service, tourists who had planned to experience the area’s natural wonders are now turning to alternatives that offer easier accessibility. This shift in travel patterns is putting pressure on the local economy, which depends on tourism for jobs, income, and growth.

Protests and Calls for Action

The situation has sparked protests in Kalavryta, with local businesses and tourism organizations voicing their concerns about the ongoing suspension. K. Dafalias participated in a recent protest march with local organizations, highlighting the urgency of the issue and calling for immediate action from authorities to restore the Odontotos service.

The protestors, including business owners, residents, and tourism advocates, are urging the Greek government and the railway company to prioritize the resumption of services. They argue that the Odontotos train is not just a historical landmark but a lifeline for the region’s economy, and its suspension is doing irreparable damage to both the tourism sector and the community at large.

The protestors have called for alternative transportation options to be introduced in the meantime, as well as a long-term strategy to improve accessibility to Kalavryta, ensuring that future disruptions do not have such a severe impact on the local economy. The local community is also seeking compensation for the businesses affected by the service suspension and advocating for better support for tourism-dependent areas.

A Unique Travel Experience Lost

The Odontotos train has long been considered one of the most scenic train routes in Greece. It is particularly popular among tourists looking to explore the natural beauty of the Peloponnese region. The train takes visitors on a journey through dramatic landscapes, passing by lush forests, steep cliffs, and the Vouraikos River. The experience is a unique way to travel, offering unparalleled views that are difficult to match with other forms of transportation.

For many tourists, the Odontotos Rack Railway is more than just a means of transportation; it is an integral part of the Kalavryta experience. The suspension of the service has taken away a key element of the trip, leaving many visitors disappointed. While Kalavryta still offers beautiful landscapes and outdoor activities, the absence of the train service means that travelers are missing out on one of the country’s most iconic travel experiences.

Looking Forward: Solutions for the Future

While the current suspension of the Odontotos service is a significant challenge, there is hope that a solution will be found. Tourism in Kalavryta is expected to recover once the train service is restored, but the community is calling for better contingency plans to ensure that future disruptions do not have such a negative impact.

Tourism stakeholders are advocating for more investment in local infrastructure, including improving road links and expanding transportation options for visitors. In the long term, they hope to develop a more resilient tourism model that can withstand any unforeseen disruptions while ensuring that Kalavryta remains an attractive destination for tourists.

Conclusion

The suspension of the Odontotos train service has caused significant challenges for Kalavryta, with a marked decline in tourist traffic and a ripple effect across the local economy. The immediate drop in visitor numbers has impacted local businesses that rely heavily on tourism. The community’s response, including protests and calls for action, underscores the importance of the train service to the town’s economic viability. As stakeholders push for the restoration of the Odontotos service and alternative transportation options, the future of Kalavryta’s tourism industry depends on how quickly the issue can be addressed.