The Messinian Mani is the region of south-western Peloponnese famous for its history and its grand archaeological sites and stone towers. It preserves a distinct local style that has remained intact throughout the ages. Its impressive natural beauty, combined with the authenticity and hospitality of the local people, creates a unique atmosphere that beckons people to visit again and again. The Mani is a great place all year round, renowned for its mountain villages, such as Tseria, Kastania, Proastio, Pirgos, Milea and Lagada, as well as for its lovely coastal villages, like Agios Nikolaos and Trahila. A number of marvellous beaches dot the Messinian coastline. There are beaches vibrant with people and others more quiet and remote. We highly recommend the following places: Ritsa, Kalamitsi, Foneas, Delfinia, Kalogria, Pantazis and Katafigi… Enjoy the sun, swim in the sparkling clear Messinian Sea, and participate in a wide variety of water sports!
Starting from Stoupa, visitors can plan their tour through Mani’s history.
A PICTURESQUE PLACE
THE MESSINIAN MANI
Stoupa truly stands out in the region and is very popular for local and guests travelling from abroad. Especially during the summer months Stoupa is full of life. The traditional tavernas which are located accross the promenade paint a vivid canvas. The evening stroll accross the stone paved sidewalk adds a cosmopolitan touch.
The meeting of author, Nikos Kazantzakis and Alexis Zorbas which took place at the village of Stoupa is believed to have been the main source of inspiration for the writing of the world over-famous eponymous novel. The houses of Kazantzakis and Zorbas houses can still be seen today at the right side of Kalogria beach.
The crystalline waters that start flowing from Taygettus mountain that frames the region, pass through an underground network of streams and then gently outpour in the sand next to the turquoise waters of the beach of Kalogria, Stoupa.
ATTRACTIONS
- Old Kardamili / Skardamoula The old citadel of Troupaki-Mourtzinos, built in 1807 and consisting of a complex of buildings in which stands the old church of Spyridon.
- Zarnata Castle Built atop a hill that dominates the hamlet of Malta, near the villages of Kampos and Stavropigio. The castle played an important role in Mani’s history.
- Diros Caves One of the most beautiful underground lake caves in the world, in which numerous fossils of ancient wildlife have been discovered. The journey takes around 30 minutes by car.
- Vathia A beautiful, well-preserved Maniot village featuring scenic stone towers that exemplify the architecture of Mani (77 km from Kardamili).
- Ancient Messene / Ithomi Situated 35 km from Kalamata, this great site remains the best-preserved ancient city in Greece, with numerous impressive public buildings, shrines, fortifications and edifices in excellent condition.
- Nestor’s Palace One of the most important monuments of the Mycenaean world. The palace is believed to have been built in the 13th century BC. Located in the region of Pylos, 45 km from the city of Kalamata.
- Polylimnio A canyon with lush vegetation, lakes and waterfalls, located along the route between Pylos and Messene.
ACTIVITIES
Attracting the participation of both residents and visitors alike, a wide variety of events that take place each year in our region.
- National Jazz Festival The Municipality hosts several different art exhibitions, music festivals, theatrical shows among them the famous National Jazz Festival with acclaimed musicians held every May.
- Hiking / Trekking Kardamili is renowned for its beautiful footpaths and trails — a mecca for the trekking enthusiast.
- Bicycling / Mountain Biking A paved path that from the neighboring seaside village of Stoupa that leads to the picturesque harbor of Agios Nikolaos is a must for bicycle lovers who enjoy fantastic scenery.
- International Free diving Cup A sporting event that takes place in Kalamata each year in June.
- Kalamata International Dance Festival A prestigious organization that has won the love and recognition of people for the past fifteen years. The festival is held every summer in July. A series of parallel events embellish the schedule.
- Sailing Regattas are numerous and widespread in the region, with a large organization being held annually in early August. The sea of Messenia is ideal for a range of aquatic sports, such as crossing the Messinian Gulf, an event organized by the Yacht Club of Kalamata. The event takes place every year in early September.