Quite often people from abroad consider Greece as the country with the beautiful islands. Of course this is true but Greece is not only that. Islands are unique and gorgeous but the mainland is absolutely AMAZING as well. A characteristic example is the PELOPONNESE and an exquisite area you can discover is Lakonia (or Laconia).
The Peloponnese is a peninsula and geographic region in southern Greece. It is connected to the central part of the country by the Isthmus of Corinth & it is famous and easy weekend escape for the locals all year!
In Peloponnese you can find great archeological sites, churches, unique villages, castles & stunning natural beauty, mountains & forests, rivers, bridges and caves! The Peloponnese is surrounded by the sea, consequently you can find great beaches too for the summer season!
To begin with, Peloponnese is divided into 7 major regions:
- Korinthia
- Achaia
- Argolida
- Arkadia
- Ileia
- Messinia
- and Lakonia
Lakonia is located on the southeastern part of the Peloponnese peninsula with Sparti city as its administrative capital. Angel’s tip: Sparti is not a beautiful city, you can skip it!
PLACES TO EXPLORE IN LAKONIA:
Monemvasia
A unique & well preserved medieval settlement that has remained untouched by time and human interventions, 4 hours drive from Athens. Located on a small, rocky island off the eastern coast of the Peloponnese, it is often referred to as the “Gibraltar of the East” due to its distinctive geography and historical fortifications. Its history began with an earthquake, which separated Monemvasia from the mainland in the 4th century. Now, a narrow pathway connects the rock with the mainland. Angel’s tip: Its name derives from the words moni and emvasis that mean single entrance.
Monemvasia has a rich history dating back to Byzantine times. Its medieval fortress town is well-preserved and offers a glimpse into the past. The narrow, winding streets, stone houses, and Byzantine churches create a picturesque setting. Angel’s tip: The cobblestone streets and uneven terrain require comfortable walking shoes. Rocks are slippery, be careful!
Inside the castle of Monemvasia:
- Walk to Ano Poli (Upper Old Town), admire Agia Sofia church & enjoy the breathtaking sea view from the highest spot.
- Admire the architecture & the 40 churches.
- Stop at the two amazing squares, Elkomenos Christou and Panagia Chrysafitissa.
- Walk till the lighthouse.
- Admire the Archaeological collection (not something wow though and small, 3€ entrance)
- Admire the view from Giannis Ritsos’s house. (Famous Greek poet)
- Dive in blue crystal clear waters in Portello spot.
- Wine tasting in Byron’s bar. Angel’s tip: Don’t skip to try Malvasia Wine which is locally produced with historical roots in the region.
- Breakfast in Emvasis, Volax, Kanoni.
- Late drinks with music in Enetiko, Vathysfairo bar, Emvasis.
- Food in Oinomelo, Matoula, Kanoni, Voltes, Chrysovoulo.
- Crepes & Ice cream in Galera Gelato & Pinakothiki.
Accommodation: Consider staying in one of the traditional guesthouses within the castle town for a truly immersive experience. Especially in peak tourist seasons, it’s wise to book accommodations in advance.
Outside Monemvasia:
- Beaches not far from Monemvasia: Pori, Xifias, Pera Kakavos, Mandraki, Gerakas, Vlychada.
- Gefyra is actually the village outside the Castle. It spreads around a small port and has many tourist facilities & hotels. If you don’t find a hotel in Monemvasia, you can stay in Gefyra & use the local bus, the scooters or your car till the gate of the castle.
- Close villages around: The little harbour of Gerakas , Agia Paraskeui, Agios Stefanos, Agios Ioannis.
- Food in the fish taverns of Gerakas and others around like Athivoli, Melitzanakia & Apomero. (Some are open during summer only)
Close to Monemvasia, you can :
- Visit Elafonisos island (ferries depart often from Pounta) and swim in Simos beach.
- Choose 1 from the 4 trails and discover Larnaka Gorge starting from the square of Molaoi village (30’ drive from Monemvasia)
- Get lost in the nature & visit the Talanta water mill! (Open every Saturday)
- Kastania cave, open from 2001 is just breathtaking! Discovered by a local in 1910 who informed the municipality 48 years later. This geological “miracle” is about 3 million years old, 1 hr drive from Monemvasia.
- The most famous hiking route in the area 4 hours is from Velanidia village to the famous Cape Maleas.
- Visit the Geopark of Agios Nikolaos in Lakonia.
- Admire the Vatika castle.
Monemvasia offers a unique blend of history, culture, and natural beauty, making it a must-visit destination for anyone traveling to Greece.
Diros & Kastania caves
Two spectacular natural attractions in Greece, known for their impressive geological formations. Both are located in the Peloponnese region and are worth including in your travel itinerary.
- Diros Caves (Vlychada Cave): renowned for its stunning formations, which have developed over millions of years. The main attraction of the Diros Caves is the boat tour of 40 minutes that takes you through a labyrinth of tunnels and chambers filled with crystal-clear water and breathtaking rock formations.The cave has been inhabited since the Neolithic age, and archaeological findings suggest its use as a place of worship in ancient times. Angel’s tip: If you have time and you love history, visit the Neolithic Museum, located nearby, with artifacts found in the cave, providing insights into its historical significance.
- Kastania Cave near the village of Kastania known for its colorful stalactites and stalagmites, some of which have unique and unusual shapes.Kastania Cave is less visited than Diros, offering a more intimate and tranquil experience.
Visiting the Diros and Kastania caves provides a fascinating glimpse into Greece’s natural beauty and geological history. Each cave offers a unique experience, from the serene boat ride in Diros Cave to the vibrant formations in Kastania Cave. These attractions are well worth the journey and add a memorable dimension to your exploration of the Peloponnese. 
Picturesque villages
Laconia’s villages offer a blend of historical significance, traditional architecture, and stunning natural beauty. Exploring places like Limeni, Areopoli, Vatheia, and others will provide a rich and memorable experience of Greece’s unique Mani Peninsula.
- Limeni: a picturesque coastal village known for its crystal-clear turquoise waters and traditional stone houses. Have a lunch at one of the waterfront taverns and take care of the turtles swimming with you.
- Areopoli: Wander through the narrow, cobblestone streets lined with stone houses and Byzantine churches.Visit the main square, Plateia Athanaton, which is lively and surrounded by cafes and shops.
- Vatheia: famous for its well-preserved stone tower houses, which are a characteristic feature of Mani architecture. The almost abandoned village offers breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape and the Aegean Sea.
- Gytheio: A charming port town with neoclassical buildings, a lovely promenade, and excellent seafood restaurants.
- Gerolimenas: A small, tranquil fishing village with beautiful stone buildings and a picturesque harbor.
- Gerakas port is picturesque with natural fjords and great for seafood next to the sea.
Archaeological Site of Mystras
Mystras, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is a remarkable historical site in Laconia in Peloponnese, renowned for its Byzantine ruins and stunning setting. It’s often referred to as a “living museum” and is a must-visit for anyone interested in history, architecture, and breathtaking landscapes.
Mystras is about 6 km from the modern town of Sparta, and a car ride from Sparta takes about 10-15 minutes. It’s about a 2.5-hour drive from Athens to Mystras.
- Mystras was the capital of the Byzantine Despotate of the Morea and a major center of the Byzantine Empire in the 14th and 15th centuries.
- The site is home to numerous well-preserved Byzantine churches, palaces, and monasteries, showcasing impressive medieval architecture.
- Perched on a hillside, Mystras offers stunning views of the surrounding valleys and mountains.
Must see: The Fortress at the top of the hill, The Palace of the Despots, The Lower Town.
Cape Tainaron
Cape Tainaron, also known as Cape Matapan, is a prominent cape located at the southernmost point of mainland Greece, in the region of Laconia. You can hike and visit the historic Tainaron lighthouse, which stands on the cape’s rocky promontory. It’s one of the oldest lighthouses in Greece and offers stunning views of the surrounding coastline and Mediterranean Sea.
Beaches
Laconia boasts some of Greece’s most beautiful and diverse beaches, ranging from long sandy stretches to secluded coves. Here are some of the best beaches to visit in Laconia:
1. Marmari Beach: On the southeastern coast of the Mani Peninsula, Marmari is known for its beautiful sandy beaches and crystal-clear waters. The area features several beaches, including the main Marmari Beach, Kokkina Beach, and Panagia Beach. Each offers a unique setting with varying sand and pebble compositions.
2. Mavrovouni Beach, just south of Gytheio. A long sandy beach with clear waters, ideal for families and those looking for space and tranquility. Water sports such as windsurfing and kitesurfing, especially when the winds pick up. There are also camping facilities and taverns.
3. Skoutari Beach in Gytheio: A beautiful, quiet beach with a mix of sand and pebbles, surrounded by olive groves and traditional houses. Ideal for swimming and relaxing. The nearby village offers traditional Greek taverns serving fresh seafood.
4. Limeni Beach: Not a traditional beach, but a coastal area with rocky platforms and steps leading into the clear, turquoise water.
5. Vathy Beach: A calm, sandy beach with shallow waters, making it perfect for families with children. There are a few taverns nearby for refreshments and meals.
6. Archangelos Beach: A secluded beach with pebbles and clear waters, perfect for those seeking privacy and natural beauty.
7. Gerolimenas Beach: A small, pebbly beach with crystal-clear waters, surrounded by traditional stone buildings.
8. Porto Kagio on the southeastern tip of the Mani Peninsula, a picturesque bay with calm, clear waters surrounded by rugged hills. I didn’t like it but the bay is well-protected, making it an excellent spot for anchoring boats. 
Dimitrios shipwreck
The Dimitrios shipwreck is one of the most intriguing and photogenic attractions in Laconia. Situated on a sandy beach near the town of Gythio, this rusting hulk of a cargo ship has become a fascinating landmark for visitors. The ship was built in 1950.
The Dimitrios was reportedly abandoned in 1981 under mysterious circumstances. There are various theories about its abandonment, including financial difficulties, smuggling activities, and mechanical issues, but none have been conclusively proven.
The ship ran aground at Valtaki Beach, where it has remained ever since, slowly rusting away and becoming a striking part of the landscape.
Angel’s tip: The beach is easily accessible, and visitors can walk right up to the shipwreck to explore and take photographs.
Vatika castle
Vatika Castle is a hidden gem in the Laconia region, offering a mix of historical intrigue and natural beauty. Whether you’re interested in history, photography, or simply enjoying the scenic views, a visit to Vatika Castle is a rewarding experience. Combine it with nearby attractions to make the most of your trip to this beautiful part of Greece.
A historical medieval castle perched on a hill near the village of Agios Nikolaos in the Vatika region that played a crucial role in controlling the region and safeguarding against pirate attacks and invasions.
Angel’s tip: The castle is located on a hill, so be prepared for a hike to reach the top. The path can be steep and rocky, so good walking shoes are essential.
Elafonisos island
Elafonisos island with the famous Simos beach is a little piece of heaven! You take the ferry for 10 minutes from Pounta village. Read more here in the article I wrote for you regarding Elafonisos.
Angel’s tip: From Neapoli village, you can visit also Kythira island.
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