One of the must see villages during our August 2024 trip to Greece was Areopoli, in the Mani Peninsula. Areopoli is a charming village with stone buidings, narrow streets, fun shops, and churches dating to the 17th century. Although there are many lovely villages in the Mani Peninsula, we spent the most time in Areopoli as it was close to our hotel, Aria Estates, Suites and Spa.
A Bit About Areopoli
Since 1912 Areopoli derives it’s name from the ancient Greek god Ares who was the god of war. Areopoli is located in the western Mani Peninsula area of Greece in the scenic foothills of the Sagas Mountains. Known as the historic capital of the Deep Mani, Areopoli is a gem, almost an oasis of sort, tucked in among the rough beauty of the land. It is a charming village with a lot of character and history. During the Greek War of Independence of 1821, 12,000 Maniots assembled together in Areopoli on March 17th. These proud and brave citizens were the first to raise their flag inscribed with the words “Victory or Death” declaring Independence for Greece.
The following is a collection of photos we took of this lovely village as we wandered around shopping and grabbing a bit to eat.
Where We Ate
As always we worked up an appetite. There were many choices that looked fantastic and we chose Koroni-Grill House. As we passed by, the smell of delicious Greek herbs and meat roasting on the spit enticed us to stop. We loved sitting and relaxing at the outdoor tables which sat upon a cobblestone walk way. We enjoyed fantastic service and food. Gyros, Saganaki, and Greek Salad.
Conclusion
Areopoli is one of the lovely villages amongst the rugged beauty of the Mani Peninsula in Greece and I for one highly recommend spending some time here while in the area. The quaint streets and buildings are charing and also offer a relaxing scene as you stroll along.
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Click on the links below to follow my 2024 Greek Travels and also my Past Greek Travels:
The Old Sparta to Kalamata Road, August 2024
o the Top of Monemvaisa-August 2024
Exploring Ancient Sparta-August 2024
Anthemion Suites and Villas, Greece-August 2024
A Bit of Charm in Nafplio, Greece-August 2024
Acronauplia Fortress-August 2024
Argos Theatre and Agora-August 2024
Exploring the Larissa Castle of Argos,Greece-August 2024
Snorkeling the Sunken City of Epidaurus. August 2024
Ancient Epidaurus: Birthplace of Modern Medicne August 2024
Mycenaean Bridge and Acropolis of Kazarma-August 2024
Ancient Nemea Greece-August 2024
Planning
There is so much to do in the Mani Peninsula. I had a hard time finding resources such as tour books for the area so in retrospect we realized we missed a lot. That being said, we are planning to return in 2026 so I just ordered this Mani Tour Guide which I think will be helpful in the future.
As always I like a good road map and once again used the National Geographic Maps for this area. It includes all of mainland Greece and even after using this map on prior trips it still looks good as new.
I did find resources for visiting the Mani at Greeka.com and I actually use this source a lot.
Matt Barrett also has great information on his website. His website is a very comprehensive site that covers so many areas of Greece. Lots of information.
The Gen-X Travels recommendations for hotels, restaurants, activities or tour companies are based on our own experiences unless noted. We are not sponsored by any business or company and all trips are at our expense. All photos are by myself or my husband unless otherwise noted. We are affiliates of some companies such as Amazon,Viator, and others which we do receive a small commission from, at no cost to you if you buy or book through one of our links.
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Areopoli looks absolutely charming! The mix of history, scenic beauty, and delicious food makes it a perfect spot to explore. The streets and shops sound so inviting, and that meal at Koroni-Grill House sounds amazing! I’m already imagining the smell of fresh gyros and Greek salad. Thanks for sharing your experience and tips; I’ll definitely keep Areopoli in mind for my next trip to Greece!
Areopoli is definitely a great place to experience the Mani at! We also bought wonderful tasting honey and some great baked goods here! Hoping to return in a couple of years! Lori
That sounds even more tempting, Lori! Local honey and baked goods are exactly the kind of souvenirs I love bringing back—they always carry the taste of the place. I hope you get to return soon and enjoy it all over again (and maybe discover a few new hidden gems too!). Thanks again for the lovely inspiration! 😊
I love the honey! I was looking on your site. Looks like you have some lovely safaris!!
Aww thank you, Lori! I’m so glad you had a peek—yes, I absolutely love curating unique safari experiences that blend adventure with a touch of luxury. If you’re ever thinking about a trip to India or Africa, I’d be thrilled to help you plan something unforgettable! And who knows, maybe I’ll get to try that Mani honey someday too 😊
If we ever get there Inwill definitely contact you! Your experiences look amazing!
That’s so kind of you, Lori—thank you! I’d love to help plan something special when the time comes. Until then, here’s to more sweet travels (and honey)! 😊
Looks amazing! One day I shall return to the country and see it properly as I only ever visited Halkidiki out of season many moons ago.
I do hope you return someday! Grace has so many things to do and see! We keep on returning and always find something new and also enjoy places we have been before. Lori
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What a gorgeous little place! I’ve not heard of Areopoli, but I would happily visit to stroll those small, charming streets and admire the colorful buildings. Thanks for sharing!
It is so beautiful! I love these types of places!
And yet again. Can’t read your posts at night anymore, otherwise after seeing the dish offerings, I have to make quick trip to the kitchen. 🥐🥪😎😏
I am so sorry! Enjoy your snack!
Love it. You are fortunate to be traveling. It is the best education one can get
I agree! My folks started me on traveling before I was even a year old! We hit 48 states by the time I was 15! 2 weeks every August they loaded my brother and I up in the back of the station wagon and off we went! I was hooked on traveling!!! Very fortunate they instilled the love of travel in me!
Best wishes for your future journeys 🙏
Thank you! Same too you!
Great set of shots. Areopoli does look very charming. Lunch looked pretty tasty too.
Thanks! It was a really good day!