The area around Monemvasia is ideal for all watersports and other outdoor activities. A wide variety of beaches ring the promontory, from the steep slopes of Mt. Parnon around Kyparissi on the east coast to Cape Maleas, providing dozens of opportunities. For windsurfing and kite surfing there are some of the best sites in Greece. For divers there are the submerged ancient cities of Pavlopetri and Plytra (where diving with snorkel and diving mask only is allowed).

Its winding coastline makes it an attractive destination for sailing, with safe harbours such as the fjord-like inlet of Gerakas. Depending on the time of year and prevailing winds, sailors will find plenty of enjoyment in both the Myrtoon Sea to the east and the Laconian Gulf to the west.

It would be no exaggeration to claim that the Monemvasia region is a hiking paradise. From north to south there are dozens of trails combining dazzling mountain scenery and sea views among the flora and fauna of the Peloponnese, picturesque settlements and historic monuments from all ages in the region’s history.

Geology buffs will enjoy exploring some of the dozens of caves in the region, particularly the well-organised and easily accessible KastaniaCave. Also not to be missed is the Petrified Forest just past Aghios Nikolaos, near Neapoli.

Rock climbing enthusiasts have two of Greece’s best climbs to choose from – one near Kyparissi and the other at Aghios Nikolaos, near Neapoli.

Beaches:

Eastern coast – Myrtoo
Western coast – Lakonian
Cape Maleas & Vatika
Watersports:

Windsurfing και Kitesurfing
Snorkeling
Scuba Diving
Sailing
Outdoors:

Nature Hikes
Geologial Explorations:

Kastania Cave
Petrified Forest
Rock Climbing:

Zobolo
Kyparissi
Fauna & Flora:

”Strongyli” Lagoon
Gerakas Wetland
The Larnaka Gorge

beaches of Velanidia

Gialos, Kalevolos, Aghios Pavlos

Beaches with sand and pebbles, suitable for all ages

good choice for…

These peaceful beaches are set in a striking, rugged landscape.

winds…

Provide shelter from all but strong northerly winds

Location:
Velanidia
Information:
1.Gialos: From the village of Velanidia, drive 800m down to the coastal settlement of Gialos. The beach is right next to the little port.

2.Kalevolos: From Velanidia drive to Gialos then turn right and continue for another 700m.

3.Aghios Pavlos: On the road from Velanidia to Neapolis, turn right after 1.5km down the dirt track leading to Aghios Pavlos. The beach is 3km away.

Panagia-Kastania

Panagia beach is one of the most isolated in the Vatika area.

Its waters are crystal clear and the beach itself consists of both pebble and sand. It is actually two small beaches, one of which is quite secluded.

good choice for…

For visitors wanting to get away from it all, this beach is also picturesque for the contrast between the steep slopes facing the open sea.

winds…

Provides shelter from any weather conditions except northerly winds

Location:
Kastania near Neapoli
Information:
Continue past the village of Kastania towards the cave of Kastania. The beach is 1.5 km away from there.