Vatica
Authentic Hospitality in Every Season
At the southeastern tip of the Peloponnese, Vatika is an authentic and welcoming place with picturesque villages, beautiful beaches, and impressive natural monuments waiting for you to discover.
Explore Vatica
Open a Window to Time
Walk along the coastal road of Neapolis Vion. Get in the car and follow the road to the sunken city of Pavlopetri or turn towards the Castle of Agia Paraskevi. How much history unfolds with each step in every corner and turn of this place? How many thousands of years of events are there to tell?
Vatica's Nature
Indulge in the Wonders of Vatica's Nature
Famed rocks, impressive caves, and petrified forests create the mosaic of a rich natural history. Nature itself, in the role of the artist, has transformed Vatika into a monument of natural art, of unmatched beauty that takes your breath away. Discover everything, from Cape Maleas or Cavomalias to the Kastania Cave, and the Geopark of Agios Nikolaos.
Religious Heritage
Pray to the Religious Heritage of Vatica
Post-Byzantine and newer churches scattered throughout Vatika await you to discover their unique historical and architectural features, either with a guide or by talking to the priests. They are always willing to initiate you into their past or recent history. Embark on a pilgrimage to small and large chapels, and experience the devoutness of major religious festivals and their unique customs in this place.
Beaches
Refresh Yourself on the Enchanting Beaches
Leave your daily routine behind and surrender to Vatika’s enchanting coastline. Dive into clear waters and relax on sandy or pebbly beaches in the untouched nature. Choose between the organized beaches of Neapolis, Mangano, and Neratziona, which provide safety and comfort, or discover the beauty of the free beaches. Beaches where you can swim from late spring until the end of autumn, thus extending the feeling of summer. Combine your swim with a hike to enjoy each of the beaches that “adorn” the 10 kilometers of coastline from Neapolis to Punta. Discover hidden gems of the Malea peninsula, and remember, whatever the weather, you will always find a sheltered beach in Vatika.
Activities
Enter the World of Adventure and Exploration
Put on hiking boots, grab poles, and explore the trails of the Malea peninsula on foot, enjoying unparalleled views of the sea. Pass through picturesque villages, marveling at the wonders of Vatika’s nature, and make small stops for refreshing dips on beautiful beaches. Or simply relax under the sun, enjoying the vast sea.
Hiking
Suggested Routes
One of the most popular routes in the area, with a total length of 8.5 kilometers. Moderately difficult, it starts from the picturesque village of Velanidia with its strong island character and ends at the Cavomalias Lighthouse, through a route that combines dirt paths with sparse signage.
A relatively easy route, approximately 4 kilometers long. It starts from Agia Marina and ends at the fishing village of Prophet Elias, along a coastal route with beautiful landscapes, pirate hideouts, and caves.
Explore the western and eastern coast of the Malea peninsula, starting from Velanidia village. The route, approximately 6 kilometers long, ends at the hill above Agios Myros, where the ruins of the German Observatory are located, with unobstructed views of the sea.
Take the boat to the magical Elafonisos to tour the island and its famous beaches.
Diving
If you’re a diving enthusiast, don’t miss the opportunity to explore the area’s impressive underwater world full of shipwrecks and hidden treasures.
Dive into Pavlopetri to admire the well-planned submerged city, the oldest in the world. You don’t need to be experienced to enjoy it, nor any special equipment, as the ancient “treasure” lies at a depth of 2 to 4 meters. Dive into the clear waters of the area. Discover the underwater world and hidden treasures, like Pavlopetri, the oldest submerged settlement in the world.
At a depth of 3 to 12 meters in the bay of Agia Marina lies the sunken Turkish cargo ship “Kaptan Ismail Hakki” since 1978. It carried over 500 tons of iron ore and a car. Now “lying” on the sandy seabed of Agia Marina, it offers an exciting underwater exploration.
Fishing
Charter a boat to engage in your favorite hobby, fishing, or equip yourself with rods and lines to catch tasty fish and seafood from the shore. The last months of winter and early spring may tempt you to visit the area not only to taste fresh and delicious squid but also to participate in catching them.
Climbing
With four climbing routes and a breathtaking view of the Myrtoan Sea, the Zombolo Climbing Park is the ideal destination for you. Here, you can test your strength on routes that offer challenges and pleasure while enjoying the enchanting natural landscape. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced climber, the park offers unique opportunities for adventure and renewal; don’t miss it!
Excursions to the Picturesque Villages
Visit the picturesque villages of Vatika, such as Paradisi, with its lush greenery, and discover the traditional water mills standing tall, testifying to the area’s heritage. Climb to Agios Nikolaos Vion with its imposing church and verdant landscape to gaze at the sea towards Kythera. East of the peninsula, the beautiful village of Velanidia with its historic windmills awaits to convey its island aura with a view of Myrtoan. Enjoy your walk through the cobbled streets and the tranquility of the landscape.
Live Like a Local
Experience the daily aspects of life in Vatika, such as the olive harvest in September and squid fishing towards the end of winter. Experience the devout atmosphere of Holy Week and the Resurrection in the many small churches of Vatika where many Easter customs revive. Follow the pilgrims that go on foot on the path of Agia Irini church in early May.
