Malvasia Traditional Hotel
Monemvasia - Kastro Monemvasías
Boasting a privileged location, 300 metres from the gate of Monemvasia’s castle, Malvasia Traditional Hotel offers stone-built units most with views over the sea.
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Monemvasia is an enchanting medieval city built on an imposing fortress on the east coast of the Peloponnese. This extraordinary fortified settlement, nicknamed the ‘Gibraltar of the eastern Mediterranean‘, stands majestically on a small island connected to the mainland by a single narrow road, hence its name (Monemvasia literally means ‘single entrance’). The fortress rises more than 300 metres above sea level, creating a striking profile overlooking the crystal-clear waters of the southern Aegean Sea.
Founded in the 6th century AD by Byzantine Greeks seeking refuge from invasions, Monemvasia has retained its medieval charm. Its narrow, car-free cobbled streets wind their way past honey-coloured stone buildings, Byzantine churches and carefully restored Venetian mansions. Every corner of this citadel enclosed within mighty defensive walls tells stories of a glorious past, when Monemvasia was a flourishing trading centre contested by Byzantines, Venetians and Ottomans.
Today, this open-air museum offers a unique travel experience, allowing visitors to immerse themselves in an authentically medieval atmosphere while enjoying the modern conveniences offered by boutique hotels, fine restaurants and small craft shops.
The heart of the Monemvasia experience is the exploration of the medieval citadel, a true journey through time that will transport you back to Byzantine and Venetian times. After passing through the only entrance to the walled city, you will find yourself immersed in a labyrinth of narrow cobbled streets, stone staircases and covered passageways that wind their way between perfectly preserved historical buildings. The Church of Agia Sofia, located on the top of the fortress, is one of the most significant monuments, a masterpiece of 12th century Byzantine architecture that looks out vertiginously over the sea. The climb to reach it requires some effort, but the panoramic view from the top amply repays the effort.
The Church of Christos Elkomenos (Christ in Chains), in the heart of the lower town, is another architectural gem that you should not miss. This important example of 13th century Byzantine architecture houses precious icons and well-preserved frescoes. Not far away is the Archaeological Museum, housed in a former Ottoman building, where exhibits chronicle the long history of the city and the surrounding area.
A walk along the ancient defensive walls will allow you to appreciate the incredible strategic position of the citadel and enjoy spectacular views of the sea and the Peloponnese coastline. Particularly impressive is the Sea Gate, the city’s ancient landing place, where you can descend to water level for a refreshing dip in the crystal-clear waters at the foot of the fortress.
At nightfall, when the daily tourists leave the city, Monemvasia reveals its most authentic and magical side. Dining in one of the restaurants with panoramic terraces, enjoying local specialities such as roast lamb with aromatic herbs or fresh fish dishes, accompanied by the renowned Malvasia wine named after the town, is an experience that engages all the senses.
Monemvasia is an ideal base for exploring the surrounding region of the eastern Peloponnese, rich in natural beauty and historical treasures. Hiring a car is recommended for getting around freely and discovering the hidden wonders of this area that is still undiscovered by mass tourism.
Approximately 60 km away is the charming town of Neapoli, from where you can embark on a day trip to the island of Elafonissos, famous for its beaches of fine white sand and turquoise waters that have nothing to envy from the Caribbean. Simos beach, in particular, is considered one of the most beautiful in Greece.
Further north, about 40 km from Monemvasia, the Cave of Kastania, one of the most beautiful and important caves in Greece, with spectacular stalactite and stalagmite formations in an extraordinary variety of colours, shapes and sizes, is well worth a visit. Guided tours will take you through an underground route full of geological wonders.
For nature lovers and hikers, Mount Parnon offers numerous hiking trails through breathtaking landscapes of fir forests, steep gorges and picturesque mountain villages. In spring, the slopes of Parnon are transformed into a riot of colour by the blossoming of countless species of wild orchids and other endemic plants.
History buffs should not miss a visit to the archaeological excavations of Pavlopetri, about 35 km from Monemvasia, a 5,000-year-old submerged city that is considered the oldest submerged city in the Mediterranean. Although it is not possible to dive without special permits, on calm sea days it is possible to observe the ruins from the surface thanks to the extraordinary transparency of the water.
Although Monemvasia is mainly known for its historical and architectural heritage, the surrounding area boasts a number of enchanting beaches that combine crystal-clear waters with extraordinarily beautiful landscapes. The area’s unique geography offers a mix of sandy shores and rocky coves, many of which enjoy spectacular views of the Monemvasia Rock.
Gefyra Beach is located at the foot of the road connecting the mainland to the rock, in the modern part of the settlement. This long stretch of pebbles and gravel offers crystal-clear waters and an extraordinary view of the imposing profile of the Monemvasia Rock. Its privileged location makes it perfect for a refreshing dip before or after exploring the medieval citadel. The sea bed slopes gently, making it also suitable for families with children.
About 4 km north of Monemvasia is Pori Beach, considered one of the most beautiful in the area. This long stretch of golden sand mixed with small pebbles is washed by turquoise waters of exceptional transparency. The beach is partially organised, with a few beach bars offering refreshments during the summer months, but still maintains a relaxed atmosphere that is never overcrowded, even in high season.
Xifias Beach, located about 6 km north of Monemvasia, is a picturesque cove of fine sand and pebbles lapped by crystal-clear waters ranging from turquoise to deep blue. Quieter and less crowded than the other beaches in the area, it is ideal for those seeking relaxation and privacy.
Kastella Beach is located about 10 km north of Monemvasia, in the direction of Gerakas. This long stretch of fine golden sand is washed by shallow crystal-clear waters that make it particularly suitable for families with children. The surrounding landscape, with green hills that almost reach the sea, creates a natural setting of great beauty.
Monemvasia offers various accommodation options ranging from exclusive boutique hotels in restored old buildings to family-run guesthouses with an authentic character. The choice of area depends mainly on the type of experience you wish to have during your stay.
The mediaeval city within the walls is the most charming and atmospheric option. Staying in one of the boutique hotels or flats in the old stone houses means fully immersing yourself in the historical and romantic atmosphere of Monemvasia. Many properties offer panoramic terraces with breathtaking views of the sea, where having breakfast or sipping an aperitif at sunset becomes an unforgettable experience. Keep in mind that the old town is not accessible by car and you may have to carry your luggage by hand along cobbled streets and stairs.
The new town of Gefyra, located on the mainland at the beginning of the road leading to the fortress, offers a wider range of accommodation, generally at more affordable prices. This area is ideal for those who prefer the convenience of having their car parked near their accommodation and easy access to supermarkets, pharmacies and other services. From here it is possible to reach the old town with a pleasant walk of about 15 minutes along the scenic road across the bridge.
For those seeking a quieter stay in contact with nature, the coastal areas to the north and south of Monemvasia offer resorts and holiday villages set in Mediterranean gardens, often with direct access to the beaches.
We offer a selection of hotels at Monemvasia to suit all categories of travellers. The most booked by tourists are the sea-facing hotels, often right on the beach. If you want to play it safe, choose one of the following: they are among the most booked hotels in Monemvasia, sorted by number of reviews.
If you prefer space, privacy and the ability to prepare your own meals to a hotel holiday, book a holiday home at Monemvasia. We recommend a few below, but in this case we advise you to book early because houses and apartments for rent at Monemvasia are in high demand.
Monemvasia is located in the south-eastern part of the Peloponnese, in the region of Laconia. This medieval citadel stands on an imposing rock connected to the mainland by a narrow strip of land. It is about 300 km from Athens, equivalent to about 4 hours by car, and about 200 km from Kalamata, the main city of the southern Peloponnese. It is about 100 km south-east of Sparta and 90 km north of Neapoli, the port from which ferries to the island of Kythira depart. The nearest airport is Kalamata, about 170 km away.
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