Neapoli &  Vatika

Neapolis was built around 1837 on top of ancient Vion. The town exudes a strong sense of island beauty with its colorful lanes and alleyways. It is the southernmost harbor on mainland Greece, serving as the gateway from the Peloponnese to Kythera, Antikythera, and Elafonisos. Upon crossing the mountains, travelers are greeted by vast flat plains adorned with lush green olive trees and picturesque villages nestled near the peaks of the Parnon mountain range. These villages offer breathtaking views of the boundless sea, as if seen through windows.

The Vatika region is rich with churches, caves, and vibrant harbors, all complemented by sandy beaches that unfold beautifully, inviting visitors to explore them at their leisure. Most villages in the area are built on slopes or hidden from the sea, a strategic choice made during times of pirate raids. The whitewashed houses and narrow alleys echo the charm of the islands, a reflection of cultural exchanges with island communities. Neapolis is a favored destination for those seeking peace and relaxation, with its clean, award-winning beach along the town offering a perfect spot for visitors who prefer to stay close without using a car.

Kastania, a charming village just 4.6 kilometers from Neapolis, is home to the San Andreas Cave. Visitors are captivated by the vibrant colors and shapes of the stalagmites and stalactites, making this cave one of the richest of its kind.

Heading east, adventurers can explore the legendary land of Maleas. A notable starting point is the petrified palm tree forest of Agia Marina, where ancient sea shells, trunks, and roots of trees dating back over two billion years make for an extraordinary sight. For the more daring, the hiking trail to Cape Maleas is highly recommended. This area is steeped in legends and traditions, from wild waves and fierce pirates to shipwrecks, all passed down through generations. Cape Maleas, the meeting point of three seas—the Aegean, Ionian, and Cretan—has inspired authors, historians, and travelers throughout history, including Homer, Pausanias, and Karkavitsas.

Known as the “Small Mount Athos of the Peloponnese,” Cape Maleas is dotted with ruins of ancient sanctuaries, churches, and hermitages from various eras. The monastery of Agia Irene, a 19th-century structure, is still in operation, and the chapel of Agios Georgios, perched on a cliff 30 meters above the sea and built in the 13th-14th century, stands as one of Laconia’s most significant monuments.

The restored lighthouse of Malea, with its 15-meter stone tower built over a century and a half ago, remains resilient against the sea’s fierce blows. It can be reached via a path starting from the idyllic, traditional village of Velanidia. Hikers must traverse an 8.3-kilometer route through the untouched landscape of Maleas, a journey that takes approximately two hours.

For lovers of exotic sandy coastlines, several beaches are located within a 20-minute drive. These include organized beaches like Neratzionas and Magganos, as well as unorganized ones such as Pounta. The sandy beach of Pounta, with its turquoise waters, is home to a Mycenaean-era infant cemetery and the submerged settlement of Pavlopetri, an ancient underwater city dating back to 2800 BC. Just 4 meters below sea level, the ruins are easily accessible for visitors, and the city gained international recognition through the BBC documentary “The City Under the Waves,” which digitally reconstructed it.

Another ideal destination for swimming and relaxation is Simos Beach on Elafonisos island. The crossing from Punta to Elafonisos by ferry boat takes just five minutes, offering visitors a quick escape to this exotic paradise.

The renowned medieval fortress town of Monemvasia is just a 30-minute drive from Neapolis. This extraordinary destination is dominated by the imposing rock of Monemvasia, which rises dramatically from the sea and is connected to the mainland by a narrow causeway. The castle town, carved into the rock, offers visitors a step back in time with its beautifully preserved Byzantine, Venetian, and Ottoman-era architecture. Wandering through its cobblestone streets, visitors can discover centuries-old churches, stone mansions, and hidden courtyards, all steeped in history. Despite its ancient origins, the town remains vibrant and lively, featuring a wide selection of restaurants, charming cafes, boutique shops, and bars that blend seamlessly into the historic surroundings.

From the port of Neapolis, you can also embark on a journey to the enchanting island of Kythera. The crossing takes just one hour and fifteen minutes, providing an easy gateway to the island’s stunning beaches, charming villages, and rich cultural heritage.