A little town on the picturesque Mani Peninsula, Kardamili is amongst the oldest settlements in the Peloponnese. Set amidst craggy limestone gorges fringed by wildflowers, with ancient olive groves and a pebbled shoreline, this is a beautiful destination for ramblers and heritage enthusiasts. Beautifully preserved Kardamili is home to a small selection of excellent accommodation options, ideal for trips as a couple or with family and friends. Intimate and characterful, the best places to stay in Kardamili offer a warm welcome.

Once a key port, Kardamili has charmed tranquil travellers for decades — the writer Patrick Leigh Fermor, for instance, made this lovely corner of Greece his home. Stroll through the well-preserved village to see little lanes lined with stone houses framed by flower-filled gardens, peer up at the 17th-century tower, and visit the mythical graves of Castor and Pollux. Feast at family-owned tavernas, fill your bags on market day, and soak up the sunshine on the pebbled beach. Boat trips along the coast feel magical; as do hikes in the rugged interior.

Follow age-old donkey tracks through the hills, crossing deep green forests and bright meadows, or challenge yourself with climbs up steep gorges at the meeting points between mountains. Don’t miss stepping into tiny rural chapels to admire gorgeous frescoes; this is a region rich in history. You can also experience a sense of this heritage at the best places to stay in Kardamili, many of which are housed in traditional buildings, with superb regional cuisine and panoramic sea views.

The Best Places to Stay in Kardamili

For Sea Views

• Anaxo Resort is a short stroll from the sea, with sleek, spacious rooms set in traditionally inspired stone buildings. Sink into the big swimming pool, kick back at the bar, or sip sundowners on your balcony. The nearest beach is a kilometre away, and there are restaurants within walking distance. Cool, contemporary and reasonably priced.
• Kalamitsi Hotel, tucked amidst olive groves and orchards, has its own small private beach. Rooms are simple and comfortable, with flexible options for families and groups, and the Greek restaurant on the terrace is sensational. A charming, low-key choice with striking coastal views and a sense of timeless charm.
• Melitsina Village boasts panoramic views of the Bay of Kardamili from studios and apartments with kitchenettes and shaded terraces. An affordable base with multiple bedroom units for families or groups, and easy access to a great little snorkelling spot.

For Family-Friendly Luxury

• Mythies Stone Houses, close to Stoupa, is a collection of lovely standalone stone villas surrounded by olive groves. Pick this place for the fusion of modern and traditional interiors, with exposed stone walls, crisp white linens and sliding floor-to-ceiling doors revealing private terraces. Families and groups will love the kitchens, sitting rooms and multiple bedrooms, as well as the shared swimming pool. Idyllic.

FOR AN APARTMENT OR HOLIDAY VILLA

• If you'd prefer a self-catering option, we suggest that you visit our online partner Booking.com.

TRAVEL INFORMATION

• Fly to Kalamata International Airport, just under an hour's drive from Kardamili. Many hotels will be happy to arrange an airport pick-up in advance.
• There's plenty to see around Kardamili! Contact our online partner Rentalcars if you would like to hire a car.
• Expect hot summers, with temperatures reaching around 25 - 30°C between June and August, which is also peak season. For cooler weather and fewer crowds, travel in the shoulder season — April, May or late September — when you can also find some great hotel deals.

STILL NOT SURE?

• Explore our list of all the best places to stay in Limeni.
• Alternatively, expand your search to see our pick of the best places to stay in Peloponnese.
• Or contact one of our friendly Gurus for advice.