Where?

Monemvasia, Laconia, Greece.

Why now?

Located on a small island off the east coast of the Pelopnnese,
Monemvasia was founded in the sixth century as a defence against
seafaring enemies. Surrounded by the Myrtoan Sea, the small castle
town was only accessible by boat until 1971, when a 200m causeway
was constructed to connect it to the mainland. Characterised by
history-drenched squares, sparkling waves and a tightknit
community, it makes for a great day trip or lazy weekend escape
from the crowded streets of the capital.

A perfect day in magical Monemvasia might begin with an
early-morning stroll through the narrow passageways, followed by a
visit to the world-renowned Monemvasia Winery, where a heavenly
sun-soaked tasting session awaits. Spend the rest of the afternoon
lounging on the golden sands of the town’s beach, before enjoying a
traditional Greek feast.

Don’t miss

Set aside a few hours to explore Monemvasia’s thriving shopping
scene – with their colourful, artfully arranged window displays,
the town’s independent boutiques draw in visitors from far and
wide. We love Malva Gallery, for its bold contemporary prints,
silkscreens and posters, Edodimopolio
Honey Shop, where you can sample the area’s famous honey wine
and olive oil, and Anastasia Livieratou Jewellery, whose wooden cabinets
are packed with a diverse array of the maker’s handcrafted trinkets
and accessories.

Where to stay?

Bed down at Likinia Hotel. Situated inside the castle walls, the
property flaunts sweeping sea views and a minimalist design
approach across all of its 16 spacious bedrooms. Picture
handcrafted furnishings, whitewashed walls, wooden beams and arched
windows. While there’s no spa or state-of-the-art swimming pool,
you’ve got the nearby Monemvasia Beach to splash about at.

Where to go for dinner?

The stylish Chrisovoulo Restaurant & Bar is our go-to spot for
expertly prepared traditional Mediterranean dishes. Menu highlights
include feta cheesecake, homemade sausage, vegetable risotto and
seafood platters piled high with the bounty of the surrounding
sea.

And for a drink…

Head to Enetiko Café & Cocktail Bar. The sleek, sea-facing
venue is arranged across three floors, complete with a huge outdoor
courtyard filled with wooden tables, lanterns and flower-draped
beams. Visit in the morning to taste-test the brunch menu, then
skip next door to Peinakothḗkē for generous scoops of gelato.
Cocktail lovers, however, should save their trip for sunset.

Who to take with you?

That friend who enjoys some downtime after partying. They’ll
appreciate the town’s tranquillity after having lived it up with
the cool kids in Athens. You won’t find any up-all-night hangouts
here; instead, flit between family-run tavernas and secluded
coves.

Essentials to pack

Bookworm? Who likes travelling light? Plough through your summer
reading list while avoiding any excess baggage charges with the
Kindle Paperwhite tablet. Literary lounging
mode, activated.

How to get there

Take a direct flight from London Gatwick to Athens International
Airport, from where it’s just shy of a four-hour drive to
Monemvasia.