Stoupa is a coastal village in Mani. Its rich cultural history intrigues every visitor all year round.

On the eastern side of the village stands the castle, which had been the Acropolis of the former state of Leuktron. According to Pausanias, the temple of the Greek Goddess Athina was built there along with her statue. In the early 13th century (1204-1259), the castle was rebuilt and maned “Beaufort”. The Greek writer Nikos Kazantzakis with Alexis Zorbas lived there, taking advantage of Prastova’s mines. It is where Nikos Kazantzakis inspired and wrote his novel “Life and Times of Alexis Zorbas”.

A visitor in Stoupa can combine both mountain and water activities. Starting from here, you can explore the magnificent mountain of Taygetos and enjoy the stillness of nature (at Vasiliki’s forest), you can visit the graceful towers of the area, the picturesque churches, the unique small villages with their beautiful cobblestone streets as well as Ridomos and Viros gorges. Moreover, for the sea lovers, there are plenty of water activities in the area (swimming, scuba diving).

Stoupa is a jumping-off point from where you can explore the picturesque villages of Messinian and Laconic Mani (Vathia), Ridomos and Viros gorges, as well as Vasiliki’s forest at Taygetos mountain. The area is an ideal location for mountain climbing and cycling, for all levels of difficulty. Make sure you visit Areopoli, Diros caves, Mystras, Olympia, the archaeological site of Ancient Messene, Pylos, Methoni and Koroni.