Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
Once the port of ancient Sparta, Gythio (
yee
-thih-o) is the gateway to the Lakonian Mani.
This attractive fishing town, with its pastel-coloured, 19th-century buildings, has suffered
through the recent economic crisis. It lacks the bustle it once had and businesses are
struggling. Nevertheless, it's a charming spot. Six kilometres of sandy beaches extend
from the village of Mavrovouni, 2km south of Gythio.
Sights
Marathonisi Islet
HISTORIC SITE
According to mythology, tranquil pine-shaded Marathonisi is ancient Cranae, where Par-
is (prince of Troy) and Helen (wife of Menelaus) consummated the affair that sparked the
Trojan Wars. A small 18th-century
Tzanetakis Grigorakis tower
(no longer open to vis-
itors) sits in the centre of the island.
Shadow Theatre Museum
MUSEUM
( 2733 022 064;
www.hassanakos.gr
; Kalkandi 4; 10.30am-2pm Mon, Wed, Thu & Sat,
5.30-8.30pm Tue & Fri)
This beautiful little studio-cum-museum-cum-shop is run by
personable local artist Giorgos Hassanako. The gallery pays homage to traditional shad-
ow puppets with an historical overview of shadow puppetry (unfortunately, in Greek
only), plus a range of the artist's own creations, including satirical puppets (Greek politi-
cians!).
Sleeping
In addition to the following, you can try your luck at the range of studios at Mavrovouni
Beach.
Saga Pension
HOTEL $
( 27330 23220;
www.sagapension.gr
; Kranais; d €50; )
This is a good-value, saga-free,
comfortable place, where some rooms have balconies. The pleasant French owner speaks
English. It's 150m from the port, overlooking Marathonisi Islet. The upmarket Saga Res-
taurant (mains €9 to €15, fish per 1kg €40 to €60) is below. Breakfast €5.
Matina's
PENSION $
( 27330 22518; s/d/tr €25/30/40)
A clean and comfortable budget option in a great loca-
tion, right in the heart of town. Owner Matina speaks no English but is welcoming.
