Attractions & Distances
Attractions
There are hundreds of attractions to visit in Mani peninsula. The area is 1,800 sq. km. and comprises 250 villages, 98 of the 118 traditional settlements of Peloponnesus, 800 tower houses, 7 castles and over 1,000 Byzantine churches.
The beauty of this place is extraordinary, so every time you come, there will always be something new to discover, something that will surely excite you!
So here are a few suggestions to start with;
The first stop is normally at Gythio, a picturesque little port reminiscent of a Greek island, with fishing boats and beautiful houses with tiled roofs.
Next stop is Areopolis, a traditional settlement, one of the most beautiful in Greece, at an altitude of 250 meters. Here at the main square you can see the stone in which the locals propped up the flag of the Greek Revolution in 1821. Walk down the cobblestone streets to admire the well-maintained towers -some of them housing museums- the photogenic churches of Saint Nikolaos and Panagia, as well as a traditional bakery and charming cafes. Descending from Areopolis to the renowned Limeni, it is impossible not to be amazed by the view of the sea from above, as the land seems to be dropping dramatically into the water. You will surely be enchanted by the beauty of this little bay, its clear turquoise waters and the stone tower houses that surround it. The beautiful coastal sidewalk that connects Limeni with Neo Oitylo is ideal for a relaxing walk overlooking the sunset through the photogenic church of Panagia Vretti and it will bring you to one of the most extensive beaches of Mani. Near Oitylo village lies Dekoulou Monastery, which played an important role in the history of Greece. Here you can also see the unique dome depicting the zodiac circle around Pantocrator! A little further, you may visit the remains of Kelefa castle, another landmark of Mani’s history and a beautiful spot for a short walk.
Whoever comes to the area for the first time, should not miss the famous Diros Caves, one of the top attractions of Greece, a magnificent trip in the bowels of earth… Visit Kitta with the tower houses and the fair nickname ‘Polypyrgou ‘, Flomochori with the impressive stone towers and Lagia one of the most beautiful and authentic villages in the area.
Walk on the peculiar Tigani and enjoy a unique sunset over the pan-shaped cape, from the beautiful Vlacherna church. Dive into the clear waters of Alypa and listen to the echoes on the imposing rocks that surround it. Choose one of the many paths running through the area, to discover beautiful little villages, like Ochia, or Ano Boularioi.
Swim in protected Porto Kayo bay and the magnificent Marmari beach and walk the easy path to Tainaro cape to see the landmark-lighthouse, after passing by the mythical cave of Hades.
Drive to Gerolimenas with the dramatic cliffs, wander in this barren area that many call the ‘Far West’ of Greece and be sure not to miss the unique deserted town Vathia, the most beautiful stone town in Mani, overlooking the sea from a winding hill… walk its narrow cobbled streets between the desolate towers and listen to the wind blowing through the locked doors, whistling legends for warlords, pirates and ghosts…
Indulge in the unspoiled beauty of Mani and she will reward you with unforgettable, images, memories and senses…
Distances
Areopolis
From Athens: 274 km
From Sparta: 60 km
From Kalamata airport: 90 km.
From Diros caves: 10 km.
Limeni
From Areopolis: 5 km
Mina
From Areopolis: 17 km