The fame Alypa has gained over the years is impressive, given that it is a small settlement with few inhabitants. But those who visit admire the small, pebbly beach with green-blue waters between the traditional Mani tower houses.

For this reason, Alypa is rightly considered one of the most beautiful parts of the southern part of the Laconic Gulf.

Alypa is 20 kilometres from Areopolis and 81 kilometres from Sparta. According to the 2011 census, there were only 43 permanent residents in the village that touches the foothills of Mount Sangria.

Alypa: The enchanting port of Mani

Historically, Alypa is connected to the village of Exo Nymfio (which is only 1 kilometre away) and, more broadly, to Oitylo. It was recognised as a distinct settlement in 1951 and was given the name Alipos.

In 1955, it was decided to call it Halikia, but was renamed again in 2001, taking its current identity. Before the formation of a complete road network in the wider area, the village functioned as a port thanks to its jetty, serving sea transport with Gythio.

Alypa has a very special charm and stands out for its typical Mani aesthetics, with some traditional tower houses reaching up to the coast—thus creating an amazing combination of the white pebbles and the exotic green-blue waters of the beach.

American director Paul Mazursky chose Alypa for the filming of Tempest (1982) and brought international fame and recognisable Hollywood figures, such as the Greek-born John Cassavetes, Susan Sarandon, and Gena Rowlands to the village.

For the same reason, it was chosen in 2003 for a Plomari ouzo advertisement.

Despite these glories, Alypa has been unaffected by mass tourism. Therefore, do not expect luxurious hospitality infrastructure or impressive beach bars when coming here.

If you’re looking for something more cosmopolitan, you’ll have to head to other locations in Mani. This particular village doesn’t even have hotels or guesthouses.

Of course, you can search for Airbnb accommodation, but otherwise, the settlement is suitable for a quiet day trip. You will combine swimming and eating before returning to your accommodation.

Just make sure you get there early because parking isn’t always easy.

The beach of Alypa stretches for about 250 metres. It is made up of white pebbles, which are quite coarse and can be difficult for children or the elderly—so it is good to bring special beach shoes.

Also, note that this is an unorganised beach, so you should arrive here with your umbrellas and mats. You can also sit on the rocks west of the beach.

It is definitely worth bringing a mask (or goggles) when going to the beach: Under the blue-green waters of the settlement, there is also an amazing seabed full of small fish, crabs, and starfish, which makes it perfect for underwater exploration.

by Paul Antonopoulos

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It is a small natural port on the southwest side of Astypalaia, which you can reach by following a difficult dirt road. But you will definitely be compensated. What first sticks out are the grey gravel of the beach, mixed with sand, which glistened in the summer sun.

At Kaminakia, there are a few sunbeds and enough tamarisk trees that offer great natural shade.

What is certain is that, unlike other very small beaches on the island, here there is enough space to be comfortable. The fact that access is not the easiest works positively in that there will not be too many people, even in high season.

Those who love to snorkel will want to stay for several hours here.

If you’re looking for a spot to enjoy the view of the cove, it’s worth taking the road on the west side of the ravine.

After about 500 metres, you will reach the ruins of a Hellenistic tower from which its masonry is preserved.

Don’t forget to take a camera or mobile phone with you.

How to get there?

The beach is about 30 minutes by car from Chora. You will mainly be driving on a dirt road, which is quite difficult in some places, as mentioned above.

On the road before Vatses (another popular beach on the island), you will meet a fork and follow the signs. It is best to choose to return to your accommodation before sunset to avoid the hassle of driving on a dirt road at night.

An alternative way of approaching the beach is, of course, by boat.

Some tips for the holidays in Astypalaia

Astypalaia is the first “smart” and green island, allowing you to move electrically.

Most of the island’s beaches are at such a geographical point that the sun does not shine enough in the afternoon. This means that you can swim there without an umbrella.

Chora is a beautiful town and offers amazing photographic snapshots when you walk on the streets of the island.

Certainly, it is worth dedicating one day of your stay in Astypalaia to an excursion on tourist boats from Pera Gialos, which depart daily (weather permitting) for the remote beaches of the island and the islets of Kounoupes and Koutsomytis.

by PAUL ANTONOPOULOS

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