Mani Peninsula

The Mani Peninsula (Μάνη) is the central of the three southern prongs of the Peloponnese. It runs from the Taygetos mountains down to Cape Tainaron, the southernmost point of mainland Greece. The region divides into the greener Outer Mani around Kardamyli in the northwest and the stark, stony Inner Mani in the south.

Stone tower houses stand in clusters across the bare hills. They recall feuds between local clans, who stayed largely independent under Ottoman rule. Areopoli, the historic centre of Inner Mani, is where the Maniots raised the flag of the War of Independence. Vathia is the classic tower-house village, while Limeni, Gerolimenas and Kardamyli sit by the sea. At the Diros Caves, boats glide through flooded halls full of stalactites. At the cape a path passes a ruined Temple of Poseidon on the way to the lighthouse. Bays such as Mezapos and Porto Kagio invite swimming. Show more

Byzantine chapels with frescoes, such as those around Kastania, dot the villages. Mani olive oil, smoked pork called siglino and honey are local specialities. Paths lead into the Taygetos foothills. The Mani is best explored by car from Kalamata or Gytheio.