Travel Secrets
Gerolimenas in Mani: the absolute destination for summer 2014!
Numerous tributes have been devoted to the region of Gerolimenas in Mani in the Peloponnese in recent years -within both the Greek and foreign media- which mention it as one of the leading ‘off the beaten track’ destinations in the Mediterranean! The beautiful landscape of the region and the luxurious Kyrimai Hotel - a member of Trésor Hotels & Resorts - have played a major role in this all.
Embraced by a superb location at the magical cape of Cavo Grosso, Gerolimenas awaits your admiration at approximately 100 km from the city of Kalamata and about 50 km from that of Githio. It is most certainly the most beautiful village of Mani…
Once in the area and at the atmospheric premises of Kyrimai Hotel, indulge in the numerous beauties of the region via excursions.
What to see and do:
1.The beautiful pebbly beach of Gerolimenas is where you can have a revitalizing swim in crystal clear turquoise waters or take long promenades by its shores. Equally interesting are its numerous tavernas for lunch or dinner.
2. Have an enjoyable walk along the narrow alleys of the village and admire the distinctively unique architectural style of the stone tower houses of Mani.
3. Visit the beach of Marmari which will bewilder you with its double act (!) and with its crystal clear waters and golden sand. It is located just outside the village of Vathia, at 15 km from Gerolimenas Tip: Most people who visit the beach are not aware of the second beach which promises a unique secluded setting. To approach it, take the path through the village of Marmari and it will lead you to it within a 10 minute walk. Make sure you have a good supply of water with you!
4. A swim at the beach of Almyros is an absolute must…You will find it on the road to Marmari village and it is part of the archaeological site of Kyparissos. Dive into its seductively turquoise waters and make an effort to have a closer look at the big cave at the farthest end of its shore. You will feel as if you are located amidst a movie scenery.
5. Just before arriving at Vathia village, turn to the path and walk for around 10 minutes in order to access the supreme Kapi beach, which is characterised by its unique setting and its pebbly sand. Only a few lucky people know of its existence and you may have a hard time finding the way, but it is definitely worth the effort!
6. Enjoy a swim and lunch with fresh fish at any of the three small tavernas of Porto Cayio. Thankfully, you can obtain a large parasol from the locals and remain at the beach for the whole day. Starting from Gerolimenas, a 25 minute drive will suffice to reach this cool paradise.
7. Head to Cape Tainaro and the area’s picturesque bay which constitutes the southern peak of East Europe and the second southernmost peak of continental Europe (after Gibraltar). Enjoy your swim at Kokkinogia beach and then take the path which leads to the glorious lighthouse of Tainaro. Press here and find out more about the historical importance of the site.
8. Drive your way across the region’s countless villages and visit the nearby areas which cherish valuable spots of interest. We suggest that you head to the village of Vathia accessible within a half-hour drive towards Marmari and Cape Tainaro. Owe is what you will feel when you first see this settlement which offers numerous stone towers for your admiration. A promenade in its alleys will be your best ever experience. TIP: The village is not a tourist attraction as such, so chances are you will not find a selection of tavernas and cafés as one would expect. Nonetheless, it is worthy of your visit.
9. Visit the town of Githio at about 50 km from Gerolimenas which is one of the most picturesque towns of the region of Mani. Feast your eyes to the typical architecture of the region - the tower houses made of stone – and discover the Historical and Ethnological Museum, as well as, the site of the famous “shipwreck”. Conclude your morning excursion by swimming at any of the superb beaches at the vicinity, such as Kamares, Kalivia, Panagea and Skoutari.
10. Discover the small natural port of Alipa for its stunning setting and swim at the homonymous beach which has bright white pebbles. If you feel like lunching, there is a small, cute taverna right above the beach which offers very appetizing dishes.
11. Do not omit to visit the Diros Caves which are located on the road between Gerolimenas and Areopolis. The Caves are well-lit and full of stalactites where the light reflections are remarkably interesting. Excavations on site have brought to the light of day evidence of prehistoric occupation, thus, signify the archaeological importance of the area. After having seen the caves you can conclude your excursion by swimming at the superb beach of Diros.
Where to eat
Kyrimai Hotel
This is where you will enjoy Greek and international creative cuisine. The use of local products and quality ingredients is a priority and a dinner here will convince you that when simplicity combines with creative ideas, it can yield to a miraculously delicious outcome. The hotel’s restaurant is yet another good reason to make the trip down to the stunning area of Mani! Award-winning chef Christoforos Peskias creates special dishes for the guests, which draws inspiration from the locally sourced products and ingredients. Try the cheese pies with ‘graviera’ local cheese, the veil cooked in spiced, fresh tomato sauce, the traditional ‘goges’ pasta with cherry tomatoes and fresh basil, the dumplings with shrimp from Gythio area, the bisque with beetroot puree, the fish carpaccio in chili sauce, the ‘fava’ split beans with truffle oil and the octopus with caper chutney. Open daily between 13.00 - 16.00 with a lunch menu and between 20.00 - 00.00 with a dinner menu.
Gerolimenas in Mani, for reservations call 0030 27330 54288, www.kyrimai.gr
Takis’ taverna
It has been awarded as one of the best fish taverns in Greece and numerous food connoisseurs and journalists have written about. We definitely suggest you include it in your list of spots to dine and wine at. Make your reservation for a table next to the sea shore and order from an exquisite menu of fresh fish and sea food delicacies. It is located in the area of Limeni and at a 25 minute drive on the road to Areopolis. Open daily between March and October from 12.30 till late.
Limeni, for reservations call 0030 27330 51327
Katoi
Ii is located in the town of Areopolis and it is preferred for its home-cooked meals. Do order the “Kleftiko’ which consists of three different kinds of meat baked in the oven with vegetables, as well as the lamb in lemon sauce. You will find both those dishes highly addictive! Katoi is easy to find due to its central location and you will adore it for its hospitable atmosphere. Open daily from noon till late.
17th March Square, for reservations call 0030 27330 51201
Epilekton
If you are looking for a small taverna with tables next to the shores of Gerolimenas and you are willing to taste the freshest fish ever, then Epilekton is a top selection. Choose among the fish range and order some small fish dishes and sea food delicacies.
Gerolimenas Mani, for reservations call 0030 27330 54227
Akrotainaritis
You will adore this restaurant for its home-cooked meals that the owners prepare themselves. Mrs Vasilki and granny Konstantina -who is 90 years old!- thrive in the kitchen and share their creations with you. This is a family restaurant operating since 1923. It was one of the first restaurants that opened in the area and keeps its traditions and authentic character unspoilt as time goes by. Highlight: The blackboard on which the menu is presented with consecutive variations on a daily basis. Open daily from 11.00 am till late.
Gerolimenas Mani, for reservations call 0030 27330 54205
Top Secret
At a mere 5 minute drive from Gerolimenas, you will find taverna Alika in the homonymous village. The locals are the only ones who can direct you there, since it is not mentioned in any travel guide. Enjoy a beautiful village setting with small tables placed at the stone-paved school yard and feast to its menu of local delicacies and grilled meat. For more information please call 0030 27330 55285.
At the church yard of village Stavri you will find the most picturesque rotisserie. The locals love it for its small, simple and tasty dishes, as well as for its ample authenticity and hospitable service. You will adore it for its mouth-watering meat which the owner grows in his private farm. Make a note that the rotisserie is open only for dinner. For more information please call 27330 51910.
Extra tips
- The region of Mani presents its very own set of dietary traditions which - according to specialists -manifest the fundamental principles of maintaining a good health. This is also a good opportunity to buy a few things and take them back home, such as olives, extra virgin olive oil, pure honey, local cheese varieties, fruits preserved in jars of syrup, jams and marmalades, herbs, oregano, tea and sage.
- Do not omit to try the traditional “siglino” which is a sort of salted meat, the “koutalides” which is a local recipe for pancakes and the “lalaggia” which is homemade bread-sticks fried in olive oil and perfectly accompanied either with pure honey for a sweet delight or with ‘sfela’ goat cheese for a savoury feast...
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