Holidays in Elafonisos
At the southeastern end of Laconia Prefecture, between the Peloponnese and the island of Kythira, this heavenly, tiny island, Elafonisos, is perched. The picturesque harbor with the colorful fishing boats, the beautiful promenade, the few taverns with fresh seafood and the "exotic" beaches with white sand, cedars and turquoise waters fully justify why this tiny speck of land is one of the flagships of Greek tourism.
Both capital and port of Elafonisos is the homonymous settlement, which unfolds in the northern part of the island. The picturesque harbor, the few traditional and some modern houses are the main features of the settlement. It is worth strolling along the promenade and enjoying your food or drink having as a background the harbor with the colorful fishing boats.
An important attraction of the island is the church of Agios Spyridon; patron of the island, standing imposingly on a rocky island at the harbor’s entrance. On the southwest side of Elafonisos you will find the beautiful church of Agios Patapios. Do not forget to visit Vàrdia; the highest point of Elafonisos, located in the center of the island. From there, you will have the opportunity to enjoy a disarming view!
During your stay in Elafonisos, it is worth doing the circle around the island with a boat and enjoying the unspeakable beauty of the place. Among Elafonisos natural attractions Karantréa Cave is included. It is located in the southern part of the island and is only accessible by sea.
If you love exploring, it is worth exploring the wider region and may find some beautiful "corners" such as Maleas Cape (Cavo-Malià) and the beautiful village Velanídia. Within walking distance from the village, a path leading to the German Observatory starts. The Observatory has been built during the Second World War and seems to be gazing at Myrtoo Sea. It is also worth visiting Kastanià village, where Kastanià Cave and the church of the Archangel are. Do not forget to visit the petrified forest which unfolds in Agia Marina bay. Continue your journey with a visit to the Venetian Castle of Agia Paraskevi, to Mesochori and the beautiful churches in Farakló. From Farakló, you will have the opportunity to enjoy a magnificent view.
So, if you are looking for a destination for quiet and relaxing holidays away from everyday life stress and the city rhythms, in a place which has something of the Caribbean, then Elafonisos is the place that suits you! Pack your luggage with the bare essentials and start a dream journey, full of vibrant colors and exotic images...
On the southern coast of Elafonisos opposite to the island of Kythira, the "exotic" beach of Simos unfolds. It is rightly one of the most beautiful beaches of the Mediterranean Sea! The beach is separated by the Saracen, thus, creating two idyllic bays: the bay of Sarakiniko (long beach) and the bay of Frangos (small beach). On the extensive beach of Simos, the all-white sand, the impressive dunes, the turquoise waters and the rare cedar forest compose a scene so beautiful, just surreal! A few meters from the sea, you will find an organized camping. East of Simos and opposite to Malea Cape unfolds the small cove of Lefkí, with white sand, cliffs and emerald waters.
On the west coast of Elafonisos, at Kato Nisí, the extensive sandy beach of Panagía, with deep water, sand dunes and cedars unrolls. Trademarks of this beach are the three Kaséla, Prasonísi and Leftó islets. Above the beach, there is the church of Panagía Katonisiótissa. On the west side of Elafonisos, opposite to Cape Tenaro there is the small pebble beach of Aglyftis, to which access is relatively difficult. Have your sea mask with you to explore the wonderful seabed with rare fish!
Northwest of the village of Elafonisos, just outside the harbor, you will find Kontogoni beach. Within walking distance from Kontogoni there is the small beach of Kalógera; locals’ favorite. Next to Elafonisos, at the northeast point of it, you will find the beautiful beach of Punta and the small beach Paulopetri. At the seabed between the coast and Paulopetri island, there is a priceless monument: the famous sunken city. You can "visit" it, as it is located only a few meters below the sea level. The experience will be unforgettable! Within walking distance from Paulopetri beach, Chamókylo, adjacent to an important wetland; Stroggíli lake, lies.
How to get there
From Athens
Travelling by car
To reach the island of Elafonisos you can drive from Athens via the National Highway from Corinth to Tripoli (324 km distance - 4 hours and 30 minutes ride). After passing Tripoli, you will keep heading for the city of Sparta and then for Monemvasia and after passing the town of Molai, keep heading for Elafonissos. Once you reach the port of Pounta, you will take the ferry boat to get across to Elafonisos.
From Patra
Travelling by car
The fastest way to reach the island of Elafonisos from Patras is to drive via the National Highway from Patras to Corinth (340 km distance - approximately 6 hours ride). When you reach Corinth, you will take the highway to Tripoli. After passing Tripoli, you will keep heading for Sparta and then for Monemvasia and after passing the town of Molai, keep heading for Elafonisos. Once you reach the port of Pounta, you will take the ferry boat to get across to Elafonissos.
From Kalamata
Travelling by car
To reach Elafonissos from Kalamata you will take the road from Kalamata to Sparta. Once you pass Sparta, you will follow the signs to Monemvasia and Elafonisos. (170 km distance - 3 hours ride approximately).
Medical Care
During your stay in Elafonisos, you can be served for health issues:
Regional Clinic of Elafonisos, Tel: (+30) 27340 61294
Health Center of Neapolis, Tel: (+30) 27340 22222, 22500
Useful phone numbers
Elafonisos Port Authority: (+30) 27340 22228
Police Station of Elafonisos: (+30) 27340 61111
regional Clinic of Elafonisos: (+30) 27340 61294
Health Center of Neapolis: (+30) 27340 22222, 22500
Intercity Bus of Neapolis: (+30) 27340 23222
TAXI (Neapolis): (+30) 27340 22590
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