Mani – Gytheio – Monemvasia : A Triumphant Journey into the Timeless Soul of the Peloponnese

Pack light—just your swimsuit, a hat, your camera, and a healthy dose of curiosity—and head south.

South, where the Peloponnese lays all its cards on the table, shamelessly and splendidly : cliffs, castles, secluded shores, and stone-built villages served right before your eyes. And you, left wondering how so much beauty can fit into a single peninsula.

Have you ever wondered where in the world proud stone castles steeped in history meet beaches that look like they've been borrowed from a tropical island? If so, the answer lies where Greece greets the south with its most authentic self: in Mani, on the cape of Laconia, the southernmost tip not just of mainland Greece, but of all Europe.

If, on the other hand, you're dreaming of a retreat that blends the wild charm of Mani with refined hospitality and culinary delight, then 100 Rizes Seaside Resort  is waiting for you to discover it—or better yet, to fall in love with it.

Just 18 kilometers from Gytheio and 266 kilometers from Athens,  it emerges amid a centuries-old olive grove, set against the dramatic backdrop of Laconia’s rugged landscape and the infinite blue beyond.

Comprising four elegant, architecturally harmonious buildings that echo the traditional stone towers of Mani, the resort is a proud member of the Small Luxury Hotels of the World. Here, tradition meets contemporary luxury in an experience that goes far beyond the typical definition of a “good hotel.”

An outdoor and indoor pool, a fully equipped spa, sauna, and gym create a complete setting for relaxation and rejuvenation—where your gaze is lost in the sea, and your heart finds calm.

The culinary heart of the resort beats at Lupino Restaurant,  an oasis nestled within the olive grove, where the scent of lavender mingles with aromas drifting from the open kitchen.

The chef and his team invite you on a journey of flavors that strikes a perfect balance between the traditional and the modern, inspired by the rich culinary heritage of the Peloponnese.

At midday, enjoy a refreshing cocktail or a light, simple meal by the pool—or with your feet in the sand—accompanied by soft, ambient music that complements the serenity of the landscape.

The menu options, light yet satisfying, are thoughtfully crafted to satisfy every craving: from crisp, refreshing salads to tempting snacks, all made with care and creativity.

And when the sun sets and the sky fills with stars, Lupino Restaurant transforms into a romantic meeting place under the gentle glow of candlelight.

With a glass of wine in hand—chosen from a meticulously curated list featuring exceptional labels from Greek and international vineyards—you can end your day as it deserves to be ended: with flavors that slowly etch themselves into memory.

Gytheio

Gytheio, on the other hand, has the cosmopolitan charm of an old port that simply refuses to age. Colorful neoclassical buildings embrace the harbor, fishing boats rock lazily in the water, and the scent of ouzo and fresh seafood almost instinctively leads you to the next table by the sea.

A short walk to Marathonisi, the tiny islet just across the bay, will convince you that some things don’t need embellishment—just a touch of salt and a good view. And when it’s time to rest, you’ll find places that smell like freshly baked bread and open to endless blue horizons.

In the heart of the southern Peloponnese, in the picturesque village of Vathy near Gytheio, Belle Hélène Hotel welcomes you to a modern seaside retreat that perfectly blends absolute tranquility with contemporary comforts. Located just 271 kilometers from Athens (approximately a 3.5-hour drive), it offers the ideal base for a rejuvenating holiday with family or friends.

The hotel is set in a stunning location along Vathy Bay, just 12 kilometers from the historic port of Gytheio. Surrounded by olive groves and the azure sea, it creates the perfect environment for relaxation and renewal.

Guests can enjoy two swimming pools—one for adults and a shallow one for children—both with sea views. The Vathy Bleu restaurant serves unforgettable Mediterranean cuisine, with both indoor and outdoor seating options.

For refreshing drinks and romantic sunsets, the Beach Bar and Lobby Bar are perfect spots to unwind. Sports enthusiasts will find a tennis court, while younger guests can enjoy organized children’s activities scheduled throughout the day.

The welcoming reception team is always ready to help organize unforgettable day trips to some of Mani’s most enchanting destinations, such as the port of Gytheio, the scenic beach of Mavrovouni, the medieval village of Limeni, the coastal village of Kotronas, the historic town of Areopoli, the mythical Cape Tainaron, the Byzantine city of Mystras, and the breathtaking Monemvasia.

Guests can choose between the comfortable Cozy Family Rooms on the first floor, featuring a balcony with uninterrupted sea views, or the spacious Junior Suites with sea views. These suites include a living area (which can be converted into an additional bedroom), a separate bedroom, and a large bathroom. The furnished balcony sets the scene for unforgettable sunset moments.

The Vathy Bleu Restaurant, with its stunning sea view, transforms every meal into a gastronomic experience, offering dishes crafted from local ingredients with a subtle taste of the sea. Dining under the stars to the sound of the waves becomes one of the most enchanting moments of your stay.

And then, Monemvasia

A place where history isn’t a chapter in a book—it’s something you walk on, touch, and breathe. Wander the cobbled alleys of the Castle Town, where every stone tells a story, every narrow passage holds a secret. Let the sun slip behind the rock while you relax on one of the hidden terraces overlooking the Myrtoan Sea—perhaps with a glass of wine in hand, or perhaps just letting your gaze drift into the fading light.

Just three kilometers from the Castle Town of Monemvasia and the Byzantine church of Agia Sophia, Akra Morea Hotel & Residences welcomes you to a lush, green landscape where nature embraces history and the view of the imposing rock takes your breath away. Here, every moment carries meaning, every breath feels cleaner, and every image becomes a poem.

In an idyllic location right by the sea, a small rocky cove awaits—perfect for peaceful swims and contemplative escapes with your eyes set on the endless blue. Access is easy and comfortable, and the surrounding area has been designed with respect for the landscape, offering peace and absolute relaxation.

The hotel’s 20 rooms and 6 independent residences stand out for their clean, minimalist design, highlighting the natural light and tranquility of the setting. Aesthetic simplicity meets functionality and modern amenities—an outdoor swimming pool, a basketball court, and generous open spaces where you can enjoy your coffee or wine with a view of the castle.

Akra Morea Hotel & Residences is more than just a place to stay in Monemvasia. It is a sanctuary of rest and inspiration, honoring the tradition of Laconian hospitality and inviting you to rediscover authenticity through simplicity and beauty.