You’re guaranteed to experience some enticing travel experiences on the southern Kynouria coast. Here, you’ll discover scenic beaches, affordable and quality accommodations, and a vibe that harkens back to earlier times, before mass tourism became common in much of the country. Perhaps the shining star of this unpretentious area is the village of Sampatiki.
You will encounter it on the road to Leonidio. When you see it from above, you will probably stop to gawp at the beauty of the stunning landscape and snap a picture. After all, the cove of Sampatiki with its small, picturesque harbor and tiny village is by now a familiar and popular image on Instagram.
This place is ideal for relaxation and tranquility, while just a few kilometers away lies the village of Livadi with its eponymous, organized beach. Sampatiki and Livadi are two of the oldest fishing villages in the area.
Beaches and Atmosphere
The beaches here are reminiscent of the kinds of scenery one would see in vintage postcards. Little boats bob in the cove, and fishermen spread out their nets. Essentially, they reflect the peacefulness of how a Cycladic island was before becoming a global tourist destination with all the changes that brought forth.
Accommodation and Dining
Positioned atop a hill, Sampatiki Suites is a 4-star hotel offering warm hospitality and breathtaking views. Guests can enjoy a delicious breakfast on the terrace and swim in the pool, relax in the sauna, or take a stroll on the beach. If you’re looking for seaside rooms, Villa Matina (Tel: 6974922377) is a good option, located right on Sampatiki beach with clean and comfortable rooms.
In Porto Sampatiki, you will find clean and affordable rooms with air conditioning and Wi-Fi, while its restaurant, with a magnificent view, serves dishes made from local ingredients and recipes, such as Tsakonian pasta. For great views and excellent flavors, we recommend the excellent grill at Klimataria (Tel: 2757 061111).
How to Get There
Sampatiki is located on the road to Leonidio, five kilometers before it. Starting from Attica, you will take the Athens-Tripoli highway. Then, at Nemea, follow the provincial road leading to Argos. From there, head towards Astros, where a stop at its beach might be worthwhile, and then proceed towards Leonidio. The drive is around three hours long.
Tips and Information for a Trip to the Area
The region of Southern Kynouria is best for those seeking relaxation, as the nightlife there isn’t particularly vibrant.
Thanks to the renowned Red Rock, Leonidio is a popular destination for climbers.
The area is also ideal for temperate activities, such as learning the secrets of Tsakonia’s weaving tradition.
Leonidio is filled with two- and three-story mansions, many of which stood in place even before the Greek War of Independence of 1821. Many of these are now accessible, thanks to municipal initiatives.
Tsakonia’s delicious eggplant is its most famous product and is used a lot in local cuisine, defined by its simple yet incredibly flavorful recipes.
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