Here are some things you can do when visiting Mani, Greece.

Visit Vathia (The Ghost Village)

Vathia is a traditional settlement that is located on top of a hill. The location provides amazing views of surrounding area, especially of the sea. The village of Vathia consists of approximately 70 abandoned tower houses. The houses are fortress-like and served as good protection as well as being the perfect lookout for spotting invaders. The settlement was active during the 19th century, but during the 20th century, the people would leave for other areas. Vathia is a must-see if you love exploring abandoned buildings.

Indulge in Local Cuisine

Mani is home to many restaurants and Mediterranean taverns for your dining pleasure. Imagine eating a beautiful fish dinner with a view of the Aegean Sea. Fresh fish, grilled octopus, lamb chops, stew, fried zucchini, and salads are dishes you are likely to find around the region. Kyrimai, a restaurant that specializes in using traditional products of the region in its cuisine to create Greek dishes is a wonderful choice. The products vary from season to season, making it even more special and unique. Kyrimai is located in a boutique hotel of the same name. Don’t forget to enjoy local wines with your meals!

Relax at Marmari Beach

While many of the beaches in Mani are rocky and small, Marmari Beach consists of two large, sandy bays. The water is shallow so if you have children with you, it’s a safe beach for the family. The beach areas are surrounded by barren rocky areas. The larger of the two bays features a beach bar that is open during the summer.

Explore Diros Caves

You won’t regret taking a tour of Diros Caves located 11 km south of Areopoli. The entrance to the caves is at the beach. The guides who lead the tour only speak Greek, so if your group doesn’t, you can enjoy the sites all the same. There are many passages through the cave, which is estimated to be 14 km long. After a boat ride through parts of the caves, you will walk the last 300 meters. There are many stalagmites and stalactites to admire. Diros Caves is one of the few caves to have a lake.
The tour takes about 40 minutes.

Mani, Greece has much to offer visitors. Whether you want to explore on your own or take a guided tour, there are options for both. Wherever you go, you will be surrounded by history, good food, and adventure.

The post Things To Do When Visiting Mani, Greece appeared first on .

Pori Beach

A short 2 km from Monemvasia, the beach of Pori is an organized beach that has umbrellas and sun beds available. Though Monemvasia itself has kept its ancient atmosphere, there is a supermarket, car rental agency, and some restaurants and taverns in the area. This is the perfect beach to visit if you want to experience both the ancient Castle Town and an area that is geared toward tourists. Pori Beach is a Blue Flag beach meaning it has met cleanliness and high environmental standards.

Mandraki Beach

Within walking distance of Monemvasia, you will come to Mandraki Beach. The beach is located near the port of Mandraki. Though the coast is narrow, the water is ideal for swimming and there are water sports and fishing available. Restaurants, facilities, and places to stay can be found near the beach. This beach also offers a wonderful view of the Peloponnese, which is a bonus to visiting this beach.

Xifias Beach

Located 7 km from Monemvasia is the long and beautiful beach of Xifias. The beach is also near Agia Paraskevi Village, Agios Stefanos Village, and Nomia Village.These villages also have beaches to visit if you want to do more exploring of the area. Thanks to the location of Xifias Beach, there is a good choice of accommodation, facilities, and places to eat. The beach is sandy and perfect for swimming. It’s a non-organized beach, but family friendly.

Pera Kakavos Beach

Only 100 meters from the port is Pera Kakavos Beach. This beach is especially beautiful thanks to the views it offers of the surrounding landscape. The water is clear turquoise and ideal for swimming. Pera Kakavos Beach also has the combination of ancient sites close by and places for tourists. When you’re hungry you can enjoy the traditional meals offered at the seafront restaurants or you can buy food at the mini market. If you’re enjoying the beach later in the evening or at night and you want to explore the nightlife, there are some bars and taverns.

Getting to Monemvasia can be done by car or bus. Buses travel daily from the station in Athens and the trip lasts approximately five hours. There are also buses that travel to Monemvasia from Sparti and Molai. As there is no airport in Monemvasia, the Athens airport is the most convenient.

When in Monemvasia, enjoy a little downtime by relaxing on one of these pretty beaches.

The post Beautiful Beaches to Visit in Monemvasia, Greece appeared first on .

Take a Guided Scuba Diving Tour

If you’re interested in an underwater adventure while visiting Mani, Greece, you will find diving centers. These diving centers cater to both beginners and experienced scuba divers. Kalogria Beach is one of the most sheltered bays around Mani and a wonderful area for beginners to learn scuba diving. At the diving school, anyone aged 12 and older can enroll in the scuba experience, open water certification, and guided scuba tours. A guided scuba diving tour lasts about 40 minutes.

Take a Sea Kayak Tour

Mani has a wild and rugged coastline making it look especially dramatic from the sea. From your place on the water you will also admire the seaside villages, Byzantine chapels, beaches and coves, and houses made of rock. Sea kayaking tours can be an afternoon adventure or as long as six days. If you’re up for a great adventure and choose to do a six day sea kayak tour, you can expect guided tours, camping on the beach, delicious meals.

Equipment is provided and the guides pride themselves on safety and knowledge of the area. You can even take a sea kayak tour to Diros Caves. This adventure can start in Limeni, one of the most well-known village in Mani. You will then exit Oitylo Bay into Diros Bay. Diros Caves are a large underground network of caves. Kayaks are not allowed in the caves, but you can take a 20 minute boat ride through them. Cave Apidima is another cave in the area that you can see as you kayak.

Enjoy a Boat Cruise

Exploring the Mani peninsula by taking a boat tour is ideal for anyone who loves to be out on the water, but doesn’t want the adrenaline rush you get from scuba diving or kayaking. A boat tour will allow you to see the island from the water, but also make stops at beaches for swimming and snorkeling and at important historical sites along the way. Boat tours can be half-day or full-day. If you choose an extended full-day boat tour, you can expect to experience a beautiful sunset at the end of the tour.

Go Rock Climbing

The Kalamitsi outdoor rock climbing park is the most popular spot for rock climbing in Mani. Located in West Mani, this rock climbing park has natural climbing fields that will challenge you and offer you great views. The rock rises above Kalamitsi Beach near Stoupa. There are two fields that have 20 different climbing routes.

Enjoy these outdoor adventures when in Mani, Greece. This region has a rich natural beauty that is best experienced through these outdoor activities!

The post Outdoor Sports to Enjoy in Mani, Greece appeared first on .

The hottest season in Mani, Greece runs from June to September. The dry period on the peninsula is from June to August. The coldest month in Mani is February and December is the wettest month. The sunniest month in Mani is July.

This weather forecast in Mani, Greece, will vary from year to year. The averages that you see below represent historical weather data. Here is the typical weather forecast throughout the year for Mani, Greece:

January

• Temperature: 41° F (5° C) – 59° F (15° C)
• Precipitation: 51 mm
• Climate: 12.4 days of rain on average, 5.3 days of snow on average (60 mm), 9.6 hours of daylight per day. 6 hours of sunshine per day, UV-index 2, water temperature 60.8° F (16° C)
• Humidity: 82%

February

• Temperature: 41° F (5° C) – 59F° F (15° C)
• Precipitation: 37 mm
• Climate: 10.5 days of rain on average, 3.2 days of snowfall on average (29 mm), 10.6 hours of daylight per day, 6.6 hours of sunshine per day, UV-index 3, water temperature 59° F (15° )
• Humidity: 79%

March

• Temperature: 42.8° F (6° C) – 62.6° F (17° C)
• Precipitation: 34 mm
• Climate: 14.3 days of rain on average, 0.8 days of snowfall on average (9 mm), 12 hours of daylight per day, 7.2 hours of sunshine per day, UV-index 4, water temperature 59° F (15° C)
• Humidity: 74%

April

• Temperature: 48.2° F (9° C) – 68° F (20° C)
• Precipitation: 38 mm
• Climate: 13.2 days of rain on average, 13.4 hours of daylight, 8.2 hours of sunshine per day, UV-index 5, water temperature 60.8° F (16° C)
• Humidity: 70%

May

• Temperature: 53.6° F (12° C) – 75.2° F (24° C)
• Precipitation: 34 mm
• Climate: 14.4 days of rain on average, 14.5 hours of daylight per day, 10.3 hours of sunshine per day, UV-index 5, water temperature 66.2° F (19° C)
• Humidity: 70%

June  

• Temperature: 59° F (15° C) – 82.4° F (28° C)
• Precipitation: 9 mm
• Climate: 6 days of rain on average, 15.1 hours of daylight per day, 11.4 hours of sunshine per day, UV-index 6, water temperature 71.6° F (22° C)
• Humidity: 63%

July

• Temperature: 64.4° F (18° C) – 87.8° F (31° C)
• Precipitation: 4 mm
• Climate: 3 days of rain on average, 14.8 hours of daylight per day, 11.2 hours of sunshine per day, UV-index 7, water temperature 75.2° F (24° C)
• Humidity: 55%

August

• Temperature: 64.4° F (18° C) – 87.8° F (31° C)
• Precipitation: 10 mm
• Climate: 4.9 days of rain on average, 13.8 hours of daylight per day, 9.8 hours of sunshine per day, UV-index 7, water temperature 78.8° F (26° C)
• Humidity: 51%

September

• Temperature: 60.8° F (16° C) – 82.4° F (28° C)
• Precipitation: 24 mm
• Climate: 6.8 days of rain on average, 12.5 hours of daylight per day, 9.1 hours of sunshine per day, UV-index 5, water temperature 75.2° F (24° C)
• Humidity: 57%

October

• Temperature: 55.4° F (13° C) – 75.2° F (24° C)
• Precipitation: 38 mm
• Climate: 9.1 days of rain on average, 11.1 hours of daylight per day, 8 hours of sunshine on average, UV-index 3, water temperature 71.6° F (22° C)
• Humidity: 68%

November

• Temperature: 48.2° F (9° C) – 68° F (20° C)
• Precipitation: 29 mm
• Climate: 8.5 days of rain on average, 9.9 hours of daylight per day, 6.4 hours of sunshine per day, UV-index 3, water temperature 68 ° F (20° C)
• Humidity: 75%

December

• Temperature: 44.6° F (7° C) – 60.8° F (16° C)
• Precipitation: 41 mm
• Climate: 10.3 days of rain on average, 1.9 days of snowfall on average (25 mm), 9.2 hours of daylight per day, 5.5 hours of sunshine per day, UV-index 2, water temperature 62.6° F (17° C)
• Humidity: 78%

During the summer months, visitors who enjoy hot and dry weather will enjoy the weather Mani, Greece has to offer. For cooler temperatures and more precipitation, the winter months are ideal.

Find the current weather forecast for Mani, Greece here:

Accuweather – Mani, Greece Weather Forecast

The post Mani, Greece Weather: Temperature and Climate appeared first on .

Spend Time at a Spa

Mani, Greece is home to luxury boutique hotels that have spas right on the premises to give you relaxation, comfort, and personalized services. If you choose to stay at a hotel without a spa, you can still enjoy a spa experience. Mani is home to a several spas both connected to hotels and separate. Petra & Fos Boutique Hotel & Spa is is located at the southern foot of Mount Taigetos.

This hotel was built with respect to the traditional architecture and is perfectly integrated into the natural environment of the area. The setting itself provides an atmosphere for romance. When visiting a spa in Mani, Greece, you can relax and connect with your partner while enjoying your choice of treatments. A massage is a wonderful experience for couples. A couples massage may include candles, soft music, and luxuriously large tubs made just for two.

Enjoy a Romantic Meal in Mani

Mani, Greece is the middle peninsula of the Peloponnese. Mani and the Peloponnese have cuisine that you must try when you’re in the area. Trying new foods can be an exciting and romantic experience with your loved one. Lalagia are donuts of the Peloponnese peninsula. Lalagia come in both sweet and savory varieties, so whichever your style is, you can try these crunchy, yet light treats.

If you’re enjoying a romantic meal while in Mani, be sure to try a dish called singlino. Singlino is salty and smoky ham. The pork is salted until dry and smoked for a number of hours. The meat is then cut into small pieces and served as a mezze or added to a dish. If you enjoy a meal at Yesterday and Today, located south of Kardamili, you will have the added attraction of being close to the beach. The owner is well-known in the area and a food writer as well. Enjoy a stroll on the beach after your delicious meal.

Go For a Romantic Walk

If you’re a couple who enjoys hiking together, this is an experience you can have together in Mani, Greece. Throughout Mani there are paths to walk and paired with the amazing scenery are sure to make a romantic date. Inner Mani, also known as Lakonian Mani, has many routes for walking and will give you a true sense of Mani. If you decide to walk inner Mani, you’ll be able to see churches, tower houses, and museums. A romantic walk through Mani, Greece wouldn’t be complete without enjoying the sunset together.

You are sure to enjoy a romantic vacation in Mani, Greece. Not only is this part of Greek extremely beautiful, but there is a plenty to do!

The post Romantic Experiences to Have in Mani, Greece appeared first on .

Here’s what you should do when visiting Monemvasia, Greece.

Try the Local Food

Dining outdoors in Monemvasia is a real treat. Enjoy an authentic Greek meal or just sip Greek coffee while you enjoy the view the town has to offer. There are a number of options to choose from, so you can experience a different view at each meal. Don’t forget to take in the sunset during dinner or dessert. While you’re in Monemvasia, you will want to try some local food. Saiti (Tsaiti) is a Laconia region dish that is a fried pie made with loca goat’s cheese and fresh herbs. While there aren’t many options for shopping in Monemvasia, you will find handmade leather goods and jewelry as you stroll around.

Explore the Castle

The castle area has plenty to see. Walk along the cobbled street that will take you back to the Byzantine Times. The main street was the trade area during that time. The main street is known as Kalderimi, but it’s official name is Yianni Ritsou Street, and it’s where you will find most of the shops, hotels, restaurants, and bars. At the end of the street you will find the main square. The castle features many alleys for your walking pleasure. You can also walk along the outside walls of the fortification with a stunning view of the sea. There are signs pointing you in various directions depending on where you’d like to go. Don’t forget to visit the lighthouse!

Visit a Church

Monemvasia is home to some lovely churches. The Church of Agia Sofia sits at the highest point of Monemvasia on the edge of a cliff. This church was established in the 12th century. Other churches you can see when in Monemvasia are the Church of Elkomenos Christos located in the main square and the Church of Panagia in Chrysafitissa Square. The Church of Elkomenos Christos was built in 1697 and is dedicated to “Christ in Pain.”

Enjoy Archaeology

In a small building facing the Plaza of Monemvasia you will find the Archaeological Collection. The building is a former Muslim Mosque that was built during the 16th century. The one-room museum showcases different styles of door frames and other building decor from different regimes of Monemvasia. You can also view parts of the fortress walls, temples, and items of daily life.

A trip to Monemvasia won’t leave you disappointed. You will experience amazing views, delicious food, and an endless amount of history. The fortress town of Monemvasia should be on your to-do list when you’re in the Laconcia area.

The post Things to Do in Monemvasia, Greece appeared first on .

Brief History of the Castle

For almost fifteen-hundred years, this castle has stood as a testament to the human spirit. Founded in 583 as a refuge for innocent citizens caught between the invading forces and the Byzantine Empire, it has been the site of many skirmishes and battles. Despite invasions and government overthrows, the people of the city had remained steadfast loyal to their land and the castle.

When thinking of the ancient world when it comes to building, Greece is usually the first influence people recall. The Greeks gave the world the Doric and Ionic styles, the latter of which was so envied, it would be repeated and advanced by the Romans, resulting in the beloved Corinthian style. The Byzantine Empire, also known as the East Roman Empire, evolved the architecture their ancestors had carefully designed – the domes dominated arches, the buildings were structured around and in the landscape, and mosaics replaced the carvings of the past.

Be Sure to Visit the Church

The influence, despite the end of the Byzantine Empire near seven-hundred years ago, lives on in Monemvasia, particularly in the Agia Sofia Church. The church is one the survivors of the ancient world and one of the examples of the Byzantine Greek cross-dome designs which featured the church shaped like a cross with a dome at the middle or end of the cross. The dome evolved from the oculus or eye favored by the Romans in later architecture. Despite the abuse the church endured from eight centuries of invasion and neglect, it was restored in the twentieth-century by Eustathios Stikas.

Monemvasia Castle is a Popular Place to Visit

This castle is definitely worth visiting. Agia Sofia Church remains one of important parts of the Upper Town, otherwise known as the ruins of Monemvasia. Among its notable residents, the ruins of the acropolis remain as a faint reminder of the early days of wealth and prestige in this ancient city.

Among remnants of the ancient world is the local wine, PDO Monemvasia-Malvasia, descended from the medieval Malvasia wine. It can be found in all bars and the restaurant of Monevasia Castle, making it a true treat from the ancient world.

In addition to the gorgeous landscape of Monemvasia and its historical value, is the ease of hiking. Unlike cities that permit driving on most streets, Monemvasia is the opposite. Most streets are historical and restrict ease of driving allowing the hiking enthusiast the possibility to explore the most incredible parts of the castle.

While a long history of war and upheavals remains apparent in the architecture, the present-day of Monemvasia tells a different story – it has become a place of serenity. While in Greece, you won’t want to miss

The post Spend Time at Monemvasia Castle appeared first on .

Nowhere are all these things more keenly felt than in the ghost village of Vathia, which is a short drive from the coast. What’s interesting about Vathia is that it is completely abandoned. Despite that (or because of it) the village of Vathia is worth a visit. Here’s more information:

Information About the Village of Vathia

The village of Vathia in Mani is close to Aeropoli and also Cape Tenaro/Metapan, which means that if you are in any of these towns, Vathia is easily accessible. If you don’t have a car, you can easily take a taxi from somewhere nearby so that you can explore. This particular village has a great view of the sea, which is both strategic and charming. The village was originally founded in the 1700’s and reached its peak in the 1800’s. By the time the early 1900’s came about, the village was declining and people left and dispersed to some of the larger towns and cities in the area. In the 1980’s the Greek government spearheaded a restoration project so that people all over the world could enjoy this village.

 What the Village of Vathia is Like

Vathia itself is perched on a hilltop overlooking the surrounding area. Like many of the buildings in Mani, especially in the older villages, most of the structures are built like many fortresses. The people of the region, at one time, fiercely guarded their land and livelihoods, either from foreign invaders or rival families. The fortress-like homes provided inhabitants with the ideal opportunity to keep a lookout in the case of a potential invasion. Essentially, the head of each household was considered to be a mini-ruler (or a mini warlord) who had the interests of the family at the center of his concerns. The region of Mani maintained its independence from the Ottoman Empire, and between the fierceness of the people, the rugged terrain, and the strategic location of the homes helped keep Mani free from invaders.

As you can see, Mani has a rich history and has a unique and rugged terrain. Even though the village of Vathia was a thriving during its height, it is now completely abandoned. Currently, it is a popular tourist attraction and visitors all over the world flock here in the spring and summer to explore it freely. There isn’t an admission fee at the moment and everyone is free to explore.

Sources:

Wikipedia – Vatheia

The post Visit the Ghost Village of Vatheia While in Mani appeared first on .