Photo: © Βελανίδια Blog
Maleas Lighthouse Trail (Ε33-Δ10)
Cavo Maleas or Cavo Malias is the second most southerly point of mainland Greece after Cape Matapan. Cavo Maleas separates the Laconian Gulf in the west from the Aegean Sea in the east. It is an unexplored part of the Peloponnese with incredible natural beauty and authentic villages like Velanidia. From Velanidia, you can visit via a hiking trail the Lighthouse at Cape Maleas and the north side of the Cape.
This is a 9.8 km out-and-back trail at the southeasternmost edge of the Peloponnese. The path is the last section of the National Trail 33 and the most famous in the region. The route to the lighthouse of Cavo Maleas starts from the beautiful village of Velanidia and heads towards the coastline. After about 1,600m from the village's main square is the chapel of Panagia Dekapentistria. The path continues to the south, reaching the little chapel of Agios Thomas where there is a fountain with drinkable water. It then follows the edge of the hill, right next to the sea and continues to the southeast in order to reach the lighthouse. The views of the rocky coastline and of the ships rounding the cape, are splendid.
It is generally considered a moderately challenging route that it takes an average of 3 hours and 30 minutes to complete. This trail is great for hiking, and it is unlikely you will encounter many other people while exploring. The trail is open year-round and is beautiful to visit anytime, however avoid hiking at midday during the summer months because it is very hot. The trail is well marked with red signs along the way. Walking in flip flops is not recommended, so good walking shoes are essential. Also, make sure you have enough water with you and some supplies too. If you do not want to walk the whole distance, you can go to the church of Agios Thomas by car and start the hike from there. This will save you about 1 hour and 30 minutes.
Photo: Velanidia Blog