One of the prettiest villages in the Municipality of Monemvasia, Velanidia lies in the mountain range surronding Neapoli. Its white, traditional tiled-roof houses form an amphitheatre on the slopes of Mt. Krithina, with a superb view of the Myrtoon Sea.
Velanidia was founded around 1770 by Spetsiots fleeing the island after the Orlov Revolt. Skilled seamen, these settlers soon established a relatively large fleet of ocean-going ships and fishing vessels.
Now the village is a peaceful retreat, an ideal base for hiking. The most popular route is the path to the recently renovated Cape Maleas lighthouse, built in 1860. Hikers can also explore historic chapels, the most well-known being Aghios Myron.
Less energetic visitors can relax on the long pebble beach right next to the little port.
Access
Velanidia is 17 km from Neapoli, reached by taking the road over the mountain past the village of Lahi. There is limited parking space in the square at the top of the village as well as down in the small port.