SoukidiaVillas, Oitylo, Mani, Laconia, Greece. Email: info@soukidiavillas.gr
The Mani is an unparalleled jewel of natural beauty and historical interest. Soaring mountains plunge down to crystal clear seas, castles and tower housed villages cling to pinnacles and you will find space and time for contemplation. Mani is the authentic Greece that everyone thought was lost.
Are you a beach bum, or a culture vulture? No worries. You’ll find both are catered for abundantly in Mani.
From the stunning Neolithic caves at Diros, to remote ancient temples high in the Sangias mountains, the Byzantine castle at Tigani promontory, Mezapos, the Frankish fortress of Grande Magne on Makryna distinct ridge, Mani has historical sites to delight and intrigue you. Mani has more churches than any other area in Greece, many boasting historically significant architectural features and vividly colourful frescoes.
If you are a walker then you’re in for a treat. Mani is criss-
Each village boasts at least one or two of the famous Maniat towers, where families in the distant past blazed gunfire at one another in long lasting feuds. No need to worry, nowadays Mani is tranquil.
There are museums relating the rich history of Mani in Gytheion, Diros, Areopoli and Kardamyli, and specialist bookshops in the major towns will enhance your knowledge of Maniat history.
Beach bums are also in heaven. From the gorgeous and mostly deserted sandy bay of Skoutari, through pebbly or shingle beaches and many discrete and quiet coves there are plenty of lovely seaside locations where you can pop on the sun tan lotion, reach for that novel and then chill out in the achingly azure Mediterranean.
And don’t forget to sample the local produce. Mani is famous for its exquisite honey. Its olives and olive oils are, many would say, the finest in the world. Local cheeses and the famed – well in Greece at least – smoked pork (sygglino) are delights that just have to be tasted.
The seas around Mani produce excellent fish and seafood. These are served up in any number of excellent restaurants, the nearest to the villas being a mere five minutes drive away in Limeni.
Here is a gallery of images of Mani – just a taster of what you can expect from this unique place.
SoukidiaVillas, Oitylo, Mani, Laconia, Greece. Email: info@soukidiavillas.gr
