Sightseeing & Adventures in Nature

Mani – as well as the broader prefecture of Laconia- has a long and interesting history from Antiquity, through the Roman and Byzantine years, the Ottoman occupation and the Greek War of Independence 200 years ago. It also offers incomparable natural beauty with a dramatic landscape and breathtaking views at every turn. Villa Klotildi is strategically situated for those who wish to explore, whether close by, around Gythio, or further afield to the Archaeological Site of Mystras (UNESCO World Heritage), Monemvasia (Malvasia) or southern Mani.

Gythio Historical & Ethnological Museum

The museum is housed in the restored Tzanetakis Tower - a traditional Maniot stone building- on the island of Cranae in Gythio that is now joined to the mainland by a walkway. The Museum houses a collection of maps and manuscripts gathered by Western travelers during their grand tours of Europe centuries ago as well as weapons from the Greek War of Independence. 

The Diros Cave complex

Villa Klotildi is closely related to these spectacular caves whose existence is said to have been discovered by the current owner’s great uncle who was hunting in the area, lost one of his dogs and while looking for it found an opening which he entered… 

The biggest cave of the Diros complex is well worth a visit. The 40-minute boat ride takes you through beautiful and dramatic formations of stalactites and stalagmites formed millions of years ago, when the sea, just a few meters away, started to rise and formed the lake we see today. Diros is 36.5 km from Gythio. 

Adventures in Nature

The Southern Peloponnese and the area around Gythio are ideal for hiking and climbing with several trails and options for short or longer excursions. The locally based company Experience Nature have been operating here for over five years and will be happy to organize a tailor-made trip for your party. 

Gastronomy

Laconian Mani has excellent local products from olives and olive oil to citrus fruit, honey, wine and cured meats and sausages, such as the famous Synglino, a salted pork delicacy used in omelettes, salads or as a meze for ouzo or tsipouro. In Gythio and the villages around it, you will find numerous tavernas serving local Maniot cuisine and traditional Greek food, fish restaurants for fresh Mediterranean fish and seafood and Psistaries for grilled lambchops and other meats and, of course, souvlaki. Onkar and Jeewan will be happy to make suggestions and help you make reservations where necessary.