According to mythology, Arkas was a hero; a demigod. Son of Zeus and Kallisto, a nymph. This is how the name Arcadia came to be. The myth has it that Arkas and his mother were later transformed into the well-known constellations Ursa Minor (Μικρή Άρκτος) and Ursa Major (Μεγάλη Άρκτος) by Zeus.

However, there's more to this blessed region in the heart of the Peloponnese than just its fascinating mythology.

During the Renaissance, the region of Arcadia in the Peloponnese became a synonym to an "idyllic vision of unspoiled wilderness", a land of peace and contentment. Where people live primarily pastoral lives, with their animals scattered on the valleys and slopes of Mt Menalon, a thick-forested mystical mountain. I believe this context is of paramount importance and really sets the tone before you decide to venture into Menalon, explore its beauties and stay at Manna.
What today stands as one of the most exceptional stays in Greece was once a hospital and later on a sanatorium. Funded by Anna Melas (sister of distinguished Greek army officer Pavlos Melas) in 1903, the patients and those working in the sanatorium used to call Anna Melas "Mana", referring to a motherly figure, in a manner to display their deep gratitude.
Manna stands at 1,300m, at a location where the only thing to be found is the hotel. Around it, deep forests of age-old fir trees and their secrets. A short drive away are the scenic villages of Valtesiniko and Magouliana. Here's an idea for your Manna stay: go village-hopping on Menalon, some villages in the area that you might have come across already are: Vytina, Roino, Stemnitsa, Dimitsana, Langadia, Levidi, Limbovisi, Piana. Each with their own unique character and attractions. Also, venture deep into the nature of Menalon by hiking the Menalon trail, a 75km signed trail that takes you to the most spectacular spots on the mountain, passing through the villages. Manna is the perfect location in order to explore Menalon.
Try its cuisine, curated by renowned chef Athinagoras Kostakos, incorporating a plethora of local produce. Soak in the Manna experience with the healing wellness activities, such as the cave pool and the massage at the Ursa Major salle.