Long before reaching Kyparissi, it is clear that one is entering no ordinary landscape. Leaving behind the village of Harakas, as one reaches Stavros, an awe-inspiring vista opens up, as if the Parnon mountain range has been cut with a huge knife, forming a cliff face that drops down into the Myrtoon Sea.
The next 7 kilometres or so to Vrysi, the first of Kyparissi’s three settlements, is magical. No less magical are the views of the other two settlements, Paralia and Mitropoli. Clean streets, whitewashed courtyards, island architecture, hospitable people, with the tree-clad slopes of Parnon as a backdrop.
The biggest beach, Megali Ammos, is right in the settlement; a little further north is Aghia Kyriaki. Others might find their own little paradise on Drymiskos beach.
The Carved Asclepium and the walls of Ancient Kyphanta bear witness to Kyparissi’s long history. Meanwhile the surrounding mountain range has a number of interesting hiking trails. Rock climbing enthusiasts will find several routes, although the climbing area is still being developed.
Kyparissi has a number of accommodation options, as well as restaurants and cafes to cater for hundreds of visitors.
Access
Kyparissi is 23 km from Riechia, which is approached either from Molai via Metamorphosi or from Monemvasia via Gerakas.
There is plenty of parking space in the centre of the settlement of Paralia.