Stoupa

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Stoupa

Stoupa is a relatively new village, located approximately 45 kilometers from Kalamata, on the shores of the Messinian Mani. Built between two bays, it is surrounded by olive oil orchards. The former name was Potamos (river in Greek), due to a river that crossed the village and emptied its water into the bay. Once a sleepy little village, in the past few years has developed into a popular summer resort, attracting thousands of visitors every year. But it is not a ‘purpose-built’ resort though. There are no high-rise buildings or large developments.

The charming seaside village has Mount Taygetos in the background and two stunning sandy and well-organized beaches, offering the visitors the chance to enjoy relaxing holiday and various outdoor activities. It has an excellent tourist infrastructure with hotels and rooms to rent for all budgets. Cafes, bars, souvenir shops and taverns, serving top quality food made with locally grown ingredients line the road above the beach. The road is closed to traffic in the evenings during the summer, making it a nice stroll for locals and visitors and a safe playground for kids who run back and forth.

Besides the natural beauty, Stoupa has lovely Byzantine buildings and is near to the historic settlement of Lefktra, where there are still remnants of the majestic castle and just 7 km away from the historic area of Kardamyli. Stoupa has also a rich cultural history. It is the place where the famous Greek writer Nikos Kazantzakis inspired and wrote the novel Zorba the Greek. Near Stoupa are many beautiful beaches, with Kalogria beach being the most popular. Thoughout the year, many sport and cultural events take place in the village or the wider area. So, if you are visiting Stoupa, look out for posters advertising those events at taverns and shops. From Stoupa you can walk or cycle the magnificent paved coastal path to the pretty harbour village of Agios Nikolaos. At the end of the day, you can simply sit and relax in one of the cafes and enjoy an idyllic sunset.

Stoupa’s charm lies not in narrow cobblestone alleys and ruined towers, but in its laid-back feel, lovely beaches and warm local hospitality. It has a lower-key vibe, attracting mostly families and people who seek moments of relaxation in the beautiful scenery of Mani. Here there is something for everybody, from the sun-seeker to the naturalist and the outdoor enthusiast. From Stoupa, you can easily explore the surrounding area and admire the impressive nature by foot, bike or car. Stoupa is nowadays one of the most attractive destinations in the southern Peloponnese.