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Activities

Activities

Kyparissia and the whole region of Messenia is one of the most beautiful areas of Greece and in recent years it has become one of the most upcoming tourist destinations. It attracts

● Exploring a myriad of unique types of beaches
● Bathing in the spectacular waterfalls of Peloponnese
● Visiting Pristine Natural Sites
● Rafting mountain rivers in close proximity by car (30-40 minutes)

● Swimming with Sea Turtles
● Horse Riding on the beach
● Taking a walk along the national Elea nature reserve
● Ancient Historical & Archeological Sites
● Close proximity to Local Cuisine & Beach Bars
● Tennis, Ping Pong & Soccer

Snorkling and Diving with Caretta Caretta Sea Turtle

The whole region southwestern Peloponnese - specifically the Kalo Nero shoreline towards the west from the Kyparissia Bay - is world famous for being the hatching place of Caretta Caretta sea turtles. For this reason, the visitors have a one-of-a-kind opportunity to witness these magnificent and peaceful creatures while enjoying a snorkel or dive in the turquoise waters of the area.

Horse riding

Enjoy an unforgettable experience and witness the beautiful views of Kyparissia Bay while horse riding along the beach of the magnificent Elea Natural Reserve only 15 minutes drive away from Kyparissia. The experienced guides are available both for the beginners and experienced riders alike.

Kaiafas Lake & Thermal Baths

To the west of the prefecture of Messenia, 35 km away from Kyparissia, lies the area known as Kaiafas, comprising a vast beach on the side of the Ionian sea, a coastal pine forest and the Kaiafas lake, which is the centre of health tourism in the area. The healing properties of the Kaiafas lake waters have been known since antiquity. According to the ancient Greeks, they owed their properties to the nymphs who inhabited the forests surrounding the area. The warm, healing waters of the lake are considered highly beneficial in treating skin conditions, rheumatism, various conditions of the liver and asthma, and have many times been exalted by those who tried water therapy as a solution to one of the aforementioned problems. According to Pausanias, the cave that lies to the area’s west, called “the cave of the Anigrides nymphs”, was inhabited by the nymphs Kalliafeia, Pigaia and Iasis. The first name inspired the name of the area today, Kaiafas, while the names of the other two testify to the existence of healing waters (pigi = spring, iasis­ = cure). Those visiting Kaiafas lake today do so not only for the water therapy, but also to appreciate the enchanting natural landscape with the emerald-green sea, the beach with the sand dunes and the unique vegetation surrounding the lake and finally to engage in various water sports, which are offered in the area. It is worth noting that the lake has been declared a protected area. The beauty and the serenity of the surrounding scenery also create the perfect ambiance for deep relaxation and rejuvenation.

Katafigoi Agrias Lake

Just a few steps away from the world famous Voidokilia beach (40 km from Kyparissia) one can find a one-of-a-kind nature reserve and wildlife haven called “Katafigio Agrias Zois Limni Ntivari”. This place is worthy of special mention, however, for being a natural habitat of Rose flamingos which can gather there every May.

Waterfalls Neda & Polylimnio

Within a 40 minute drive (one to the North and one to the east) and nestled under the thick luscious blanket of Messenian vegetation there can be found two magnificent complexes of waterfalls Waterfalls Neda & Waterfalls Polylimnio.

Neda

Located 40 km away from Kyparissia Neda Waterfalls provide a unique opportunity to see three separate waterfalls with crystal clear water, engage in gorge hiking and rafting and even witness the natural habitat of local bats in the mysterious gorges along the Neda River. The Neda was named after one of the Nymphs, a water deity, entrusted to take care of Zeus by Rhea to save him from being devoured by Cronus.

Polylimnio

Another notable waterfall and lake complex is Polylimnio, also known as the Blue Lagoon of Messinia. In the heart of the Peloponnese, the exotic Polylimnio surprises visitors. It is located near the village Haravgi, around 60 km away from Kyparissia. The spectacular beauty of Polylimnio is partially due to the ruggedness of the area where the uneven ground among the rocks and trees creates waterfalls and the system of 15 lakes. The majestic and otherworldly charm of this place can make any impressionable visitor believe to have finally rediscovered the long-lost mythical garden of Eden.

Zakynthos & Proti Island Cruises

Zakynthos

145 km away from Kyparissia lies the island of Zakynthos, one of the most enchanting and spectacular Greek islands. The best way to visit the island is to take a 1h 20 minutes ferry from the port of Kyllini (100 km away from Kyparissia). Sitting in the heart of the mesmerising Ionian sea, it boasts a resplendent natural landscape and majestic beaches. Exploring the island, you will discover picturesque hilltop villages, traditional monasteries and dreamy natural landscapes. The beaches on the island, just like in the region of Messenia are home to the endangered species of the sea turtle Caretta-Caretta, which lay their eggs in the fine white sand every year. The trademark of Zante, as the island is known in Italian, is the scenic Navagio (Shipwreck) beach. Solely accessible by boat, Navagio beach has enchanting turquoise waters, white sand and is backed by dramatic towering cliffs. Apart from Shipwreck beach, though, there are many wonderful beaches you should visit, such as Laganas, Gerakas, Vasilikos and Spiantza. After exploring the emerald bays of the island, take a break from the beach life to visit Zakynthos Town, the capital of the island. Strongly influenced by the Venetians, who had also named the island "Fiore di Levante" (flower of the east), the main Town has many hidden gems to explore. Saint Mark Square, the Venetian Castle, Solomos Square and the Post-Byzantine Museum are some of the best places to visit.

Proti Island

Proti is a beautiful small inhabited island which is located opposite Gargaliani, just one mile from the shore. The name of the island derives from the ancient sea god Proteus, son of Poseidon. It was first mentioned by the writer Thucydides who wrote about the Athenian fleet which sailed the island in 426 B.C. Proti has a great archaeological significance as there is a Mycenaean acropolis on the island. Traditionally, the island was the shelter for sailors and pirates who used to hide treasures there. In fact, in the place called “Grammeno '' there are more than 30 engraved inscriptions which served as signposts going all the way back to the Post Classical, Roman and Byzantine era. The islet of Proti is known for its scenic beach called Vourlia located in a serene cove with crystal clear turquoise waters. Also, there is the wreck of the ship “Anwar '' that sank during World War II. Lastly, there is the monastery of Gorgo Page Assumption north of the Voulia beach. In August and September, this little monastery attracts a large number of visitors to honor Virgin Mary. The half–abandoned hermitages on the island demonstrate that in the past the islet served as a place of seclusion for ascetics. There are boat excursions to the island of Proti from the port of Marathopolis, only a 20 minute drive away from Kyparissia.

Taygetos Mountain

Taygetos is the highest mountain range in the Peloponnese with its peak (Profitis Ilias) reaching an altitude of 2,407 meters. It is located about a one hour drive away to the North-East from Kyparissia. It is a truly unique place of tremendous natural value that has been designated as a ‘Special Protection Zone’ at European level. The name is one of the oldest recorded in Europe, appearing in Homer’s Odyssey. In classical Greek mythology, it was associated with the nymph Taygete. This is also the classical Mount Taleton mentioned by Pausanias, in the second century AD and the peak was dedicated to Helios, the Sun and Zeus. Taygetus overlooks the cities of Sparti and Kalamata, whose skyline it dominates. Golden eagle, king eagle, eagle hawk and pheasant eagle are perhaps the most well-known of the 32 protected bird species that together with endemic flora and reptile species compose the unique mosaic of Taygetos biodiversity. Two thousand four hundred and seven vertical meters come between the seaside village of Kardamili and Profitis Ilias peak, the summit of Taygetos, the roof of the Peloponnese.

This is no ordinary mountain. West Mani is blessed with a landscape so diverse that can keep you busy for a lifetime exploring it. Mountain forests and meadows, steep slopes and rocky ecosystems, early wildflowers and the strong scent of the herbs will fill your heart and senses with pure joy. Hiking, mountain biking, trekking and climbing at the mountains’ hillsides or gorges, are just some of the many options you have. Interestingly, the peak of Profitis Ilias is especially unique for its glorious and awe-inspiring Pyramid Shadow Effect which happens both during the sunset or sunrise due to the pyramid shape of the mountain summit. The shadow cast by the peak during these hours forms a shape of a perfect triangle projected into the skyline. According to local legends, by witnessing such an event one can have an experience of profound spiritual significance leading to the rejuvenation and purification of the deepest recesses of one’s soul.

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