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The Area

The Peloponnese has a variety of landscapes, perfect for the budding artist to capture and some lovely walks providing forMap of Kalamata all levels of ability and enthusiasm! This idyllic peninsula of the mainland is embedded with cultural monuments, with medieval castles, churches and monasteries. This area is renowned for its wonderful fresh produce, much of which is organic. So what better place to come and sample, or if you wish, learn how to cook traditional mouth watering Greek cuisine. This area of Greece is as traditionally Greek as you can get!

The Mani is the southernmost peninsula of mainland Greece and has rugged mountainous scenery, which during the winter and early spring has snow covered peaks. The hillsides are interspersed with small rustic villages, where the Mani houses are built of local stone, and they are renowned for their traditional towers. Around every corner you will find a new, breathtaking view. Towards the sea, the rugged hills and mountains give way to beaches with beautiful clean azure waters. Choose from either long sandy beaches or small secluded coves where you can simply while away the hours swimming and soaking up the sun.  For the more adventurous and energetic the waters are ideal for snorkeling. The evenings are for tasting the excellent local cuisine and relaxing whilst you observe a beautiful sunset over the bay towards Messinia, or an idyllic waterfront or mountain scene from a local taverna.

Beach

The Messinian Peninsula is the westernmost finger of the Peloponnese and has the best beaches and is known locally as the Garden of the Peloponnese. The coastline is scattered with traditional villages with harbour front tavernas displaying their days catch. In the evening the towns and villages come alive, especially along the waterfronts which are lined with tavernas serving local dishes and drinks – fresh fish, roast suckling pig, chicken and sausages, cheese and olives –not to mention retsina wine and ouzo; a must for any visit.

Historical Places of Interest

The Peloponnese has a history of over 5,000 years with monuments and archaeological sites from the Mycenaean era, the Classical and Byzantine era as well as the Venetian and Persian domination.

CanalThis is the ideal destination for anyone who wishes to become acquainted with the origins of Greek civilization. The Olympic Games were established here; every four years this is celebrated at Ancient Olympia where the Olympic flame is lit.

The north of the region has the greatest concentration of ancient sites anywhere in Greece – Korinth, Mycenae, Nafplion, Ancient Messini and Epidavros to name but a few and all are within easy reach. The Korinth Canal separating the Ionian and the Aegean seas is also very worthy of a trip.

The south has lesser known historical sites but is noted for the distinctive stone Maniot towers which become more evident the further south you go.

Some Places of Interest to Visit

Kalamata Town

Two YachtsKalamata is a small port on the Gulf of Messinia, with a new cosmopolitan marina, surrounded by an extensive choice of tavernas that cater for all tastes. It is an expanding town where if you choose you could shop until you drop! Every summer cultural events like concerts and plays are held in the amphitheatre of Kalamata Castle. However you can still enjoy a peaceful walk along the seafront, observing the small fishing boats whilst visiting one of the small cafes or fish tavernas. Something for everyone!

Kardamili

An enchanting waterfront village with meandering cobbled streets set at the foot of the imposing Taygotes Mountains. It is surrounded by stunning scenery and beautiful clear water which is fresh from the mountains. This is a traditional but popular area for tourists to visit where you can buy local produce and crafts as well as enjoying local hospitality in one of the many small friendly tavernas or coffee shops.

Stoupa

A lively coastal village which has a choice of beautiful sandy beaches. This is a popular resort in the summer months with many shops, tavernas and bars but it still retains its ‘Greekness’
To the south of Stoupa lie the small fishing village of Aghios Nikolaos and the rustic hamlet of Aghios Dimitrios.

PylosHarbour

A small harbour town built on a hill on the south coast of the Bay of Naverino where the historical battle took place in 1827 which is still celebrated today. There is a partially restored castle overlooking the bay.

 

"… Its gorgeous blue seas and miles of untouched coastline took home 430 blue flags, the second highest of any country." from www.homesworldwide.co.uk/travelgreece.