In the southeastern part of Peloponnese, Laconia is a place filled with natural wonders and historic sights. You will never get bored when visiting this blessed destination in Greece. However, when time is limited, you need to know how to prioritize. And this is when we step in, covering an article about the top 3 stops in Laconia. So you will be prepared to see at least the most striking phenomena of the region, taking in as much as possible!
First stop in our journey should be Cape Tainaro (or Cape Tainaron, in its most archaic form) and its imposing Lighthouse. The cape has been described as the “dreamlike end of mainland Europe” and this is justified. It is indeed the southernmost part of mainland Europe, meaning without the islands of Crete and so on. Dividing the sea into the Messenian and Laconian Gulfs, in antiquity the cape marked the entrance to Hades, the God of the Underworld. And besides the remains of the Temple of Zeus in the area, the Lighthouse dates back to 1882 and provides the perfect observatory.
Areopoli is a historic town of Peloponnese and its beauty enchants travelers from all over the world. In the past, it was the capital of Inner Mani, the distinctive part of Greece with the brave men and women. Its name derives from the God of War, Aries. Stone houses, cobbled pathways and quiet neighborhoods, along with the central square and the hospitable locals, these are all elements that make you crave for a visit in Areopolis.
Finally in our guide of the top 3 stops in Laconia, we find Gerakas. This is not as advertised as the previous attractions, yet it holds a special charm. It is a natural harbor that had been known ever since antiquity and some even call it “The Greek Fjord”. Built on the south east of the region, the village of Gerakas offers a quiet shelter to boats and yachts. And for those history buffs, this is the very place where the ruins of Zarax, the ancient town, have been revealed.