Location & Access
The Mani peninsula
Bassa Maina is located in the middle of the three peninsulas of southern Peloponnese – the Mani peninsula, which is also known by its Medieval name Maina. This mountainous region is incredibly beautiful, with its sleepy fishing coves, fortified villages, emerald waters, and captivating sunsets creating a gasp-inducing backdrop. The complex is amphitheatrically built on a five acres plot overlooking the Mediterranean Sea. Its exemplary architecture and almost whimsical interior design are truly impressive, while its location in a rural, almost untouched by time, area of Inner Mani surely ensures seclusion and privacy, and makes it an ideal year-round destination.
Incredible Scenic Views
A tour of the middle peninsula of the Peloponnese is a must. There are many natural attractions, monuments, and villages at a short distance from Bassa Maina, including the incredibly scenic Areopoli, with the stone houses and cobblestone alleys, Limeni, with its beautiful fish taverns right by the water, and the stunning Diros Caves. This unique natural monument is really an underground complex with a subterranean river and exquisite formations of stalactites and stalagmites, formed millions of years ago, inhabited since Neolithic times and not fully explored to this day. Further to the south, there is Vathia, with the impressive tower houses, and Cape Tainaro, which is the southernmost point of continental Europe, while to the east, the scenic Nyfi is also definitely worth a visit.
Beaches & Excursions
There are many lovely sandy and pebbly beaches in the area, including Marmari, Kyparissos, Ampelos, Alypa, Agia Varvara, Skoutari and Mavrovouni, which are all south of Areopolis, as well as Kalogria, Stoupa, and Foneas to the north, towards Kardamyli.
The staff of Bassa Maina will also be more than happy to organize half or full day cruises, along the area’s rugged and impressive coastline, which is surely an unforgettable experience. The area is filled with seaside settlements, with stone-built tower-shape houses, hidden coves with crystal clear waters, and abandoned buildings and churches, making the panoramic view from a boat truly breathtaking.
Getting to Bassa Maina
Access from Athens is fairly easy, via the Athens – Corinth national highway and then the Corinth – Tripolis national highway. In Tripolis follow E961 highway towards Sparti, and then right before Gytheio, follow the signs towards Areopoli. Following the provincial road of Kalamata – Areopolis, on the way to Limeni, Bassa Maina will be on your left hand (follow the street signs). The international airport of Athens is approximately 300 km from Bassa Maina, while the closest airport is the Kalamata International Airport, which is an approximate 2 hour drive from the establishment.