The Mani

The wild, mountainous landscape of the Mani has shaped the region’s history for millennia, offering refuge from invaders and creating a culture of independence and resilience. Rugged hills, rocky coastlines, hidden bays, and windswept coves define this dramatic and captivating peninsula, making it a favourite for travellers seeking scenery, history, and authenticity.

Mani’s landscape is as harsh as it is beautiful: bare hillsides, stone walls, prickly pears, and cobbled ‘kalderimia’ tracks connect remote villages that were once accessible only by pack animal. These mountains also gave rise to tower houses, built by families to protect themselves during centuries of feuds. Today, many of these historic towers have been converted into boutique hotels or private homes, offering a fascinating glimpse into the area’s past.

Gythion, in north-east Mani, is a charming port town reminiscent of an island harbour, with neo-classical houses, bustling fish tavernas, and green hillsides. Heading west, Areopolis—named after Ares, the Greek god of war—is a traditional town rich in churches, monasteries, and restored tower houses, some of which now function as museums or boutique hotels. Its nearby port, Limeni, is a picture-perfect village with bobbing fishing boats, colourful houses, and a small castle. From here, the Diros Caves are a must-visit: a short boat ride takes you through fascinating stalagmites and stalactites in one of Greece’s earliest inhabited sites.

Further south, Kardamili blends mountain charm with seaside tranquillity. Clear waters lap pebbly beaches backed by olive groves, while the upper village—Old Kardamili—features abandoned tower houses clustered around the 18th-century church of Agios Spyridon, which played a role in the War of Independence. Nearby Taygetos Mountain, named after an ancient nymph, offers superb hiking, including the dramatic Rindomo and Viros Gorges.

The greater Mani region is home to Cape Tenaro, the southernmost point of mainland Europe, and is within reach of the UNESCO-listed fortified town of Mystras, perched dramatically on the cliffs of Taygetos.

A day spent exploring Mani is a feast for the senses: meander through mountain villages, quiet beaches, Byzantine churches, and pine-clad valleys, stopping at tavernas serving fresh seafood and local delicacies along the way. With its combination of rugged beauty, rich history, and warm hospitality, Mani remains one of the most unspoilt and captivating corners of Greece.