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JOYFUL EXPLORATION I MANI
Its distinct stone architecture
sets it apart. It feels like an
MANI: A SEASON OF CELEBRATION
island—but not the Cycladic
kind. Forget white houses
JUNE 8 – Feast of the Holy Trinity (Stoupa) and blue shutters. In Limeni
A cherished local celebration honoring Agia and the surrounding areas,
Triada (Holy Trinity), featuring a religious liturgy, every building is made the
traditional cuisine, and festive village gatherings. same way: solid, stone-built,
love, and a fiery old oven. Whether you’re grabbing a still-warm most awe-inspiring natural wonders in all of Greece. Often timeless. It’s like stepping
loaf or enjoying a handmade cheese pie, it’s an experience ranked among the most beautiful caves in the world, this JUNE 21 – 1st Mani Sports Festival into a time capsule, straight
that connects you directly with the soul of the region. underground marvel offers a boat ride through a labyrinth A dynamic new addition to the Mani calendar, back to the 1800s.
of turquoise waters, winding past dramatic stalactites and this inaugural festival brings together athletic
competitions, youth participation, and
WALKING IN THE FOOTSTEPS OF PATRICK LEIGH stalagmites that have been forming for millions of years. The community spirit.
FERMOR guided route covers about 1,500 meters, with nearly 1,200
No travel through Mani would be complete without mentioning of those traveled by boat—making it more than just a visit; JULY 16 – Feast of Agia Marina (Metamorfosi)
Patrick Leigh Fermor, the British writer and adventurer who it’s an experience that feels like stepping into a dream. The In honor of Saint Marina, this village festival
includes church services, traditional food,
fell in love with this untamed corner of Greece. His home near silence inside, broken only by the sound of paddles on still and live folk music that bring the community
Kardamyli is now a museum, and his writing immortalized water, creates an almost mystical ambiance. together.
the wild, poetic spirit of Mani. Fermor described the region
as a place where the past and present coexist, where time COME FOR THE LANDSCAPE, STAY FOR THE SOUL JUNE 28–29 – Reenactment of the Battle of
Diros
seems to stretch–and that feeling still lingers in every stone Mani is not for those seeking luxury resorts or crowded party Held on the historic beach of Diros, this
wall, craggy peak, and sun-bleached village. Whether you're beaches. It’s a place of raw edges, untouched traditions, dramatic reenactment commemorates the heroic
in the mood for history, hiking, or simply beach-hopping, and ancient echoes. It’s for travelers who crave authenticity, resistance of local women during the Greek War
of Independence.
Mani has a destination for every travel taste. connection, and discovery. Whether you're watching the sunset
over Oitylo Bay, diving into the emerald waters of Katafygi, or AUGUST – Mani Summer Festival (Milea)
EXPLORING THE MAGICAL DIROS CAVES sipping a strong coffee beneath the stone towers of Areopoli, A highlight of the season, this festival transforms
Just a short 16-kilometer drive from Oitylo, the Diros you’ll find yourself slowly falling in love with the unhurried way the Open Theatre of Milea into a stage for open-
air concerts and cultural performances amid the
Caves—specifically the Vlychada Cave—are one of the of living. And you might just never want to leave. • region’s stunning landscape.
SEPTEMBER 8 – Feast of Panagia Yiatrissa
INSIDER TIPS unbeatable location, offering travelers dividing its clear turquoise waters and a (Our Lady the Healer)
A deeply spiritual event dedicated to the healing
Τhe Concierge team at Korona Boutique easy access to some of the most iconic small cave carved into the rock, Foneas Virgin Mary, drawing pilgrims and locals alike
Hotel are not just hosts—they’re passionate destinations in the Peloponnese. Just is wild, raw, and breathtakingly beautiful. for prayer, reflection, and heartfelt community
storytellers, deeply connected to the a short drive away, you can wander The smooth white pebbles, the relaxed connection.
land and its traditions. With their insider through the historic streets of Areopoli, beach canteen, and the overall untouched
knowledge, they are ready to guide you descend into the otherworldly depths feel of the place make it a perfect escape
along the hidden paths of Mani, leading of the Diros Caves, or bask in the sun for those seeking something authentic
to off-the-beaten-track destinations on the sandy shores of Stoupa. If and unspoiled. Despite its easy access,
untouched by mass tourism.They’ll send you’re in the mood for a seaside town it remains delightfully under the radar—a
you on secret routes through stone- with a lively harbor and neoclassical magical beach where Mani reveals her
built hamlets, secluded beaches, and architecture, Gythio is just around the most enchanting side.
forgotten mountain paths, introducing corner, while adventurers can head If your guests wanted to have a
you to locals, customs, and flavors that south to Cape Tenaro, the mystical really special meal while they are
most visitors never get to experience. end of the European mainland. Even here — something authentic and a
Through them, you'll be initiated into the iconic spots like Monemvasia, ancient bit under the radar — where would
authentic Maniot way of life—proud, raw, Sparta, or the lively city of Kalamata you send them?
and deeply rooted in history. Whether it's are within reach, making Oitylo the I’d highly recommend Aspasia Restaurant.
arranging a private visit to a historic tower perfect home base for travelers who It’s tucked away in the tiny village of
house or recommending the perfect quiet want to combine relaxed village life Stavri, and it’s not the kind of place
spot to watch the sunset, they’ll make with memorable day trips. you just stumble upon—people go
sure your journey through Mani is not Is there a beach in Mani that feels there because it’s different. The chef,
just a trip—but a true cultural immersion. truly magical, almost like a secret Stavriani Zervakakou, is remarkable.
waiting to be discovered? She creates a new menu every day,
KORONA BOUTIQUE HOTEL Absolutely—Foneas Beach is one of based entirely on what’s fresh and in
CONCIERGE those rare places that seem pulled from a season. It's deeply personal, rooted
What makes Oitylo such a perfect dream. Just 20 kilometers south of Oitylo, in the local landscape, and the setting
base for exploring the Mani this secluded cove has earned a quiet is just magical—quiet, raw, and full of
Peninsula? reputation among locals and in-the-know soul. Honestly, it feels more like being
Oitylo’s charm lies not only in its tranquil, travelers as a coastal treasure. Enclosed invited into someone’s world than going
stone-built character but also in its by rugged cliffs, with a massive boulder to a restaurant.
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