While you’re traveling, you sometimes find a rare and perfect place. A spot so peaceful you can just sit there and let time pass by. Limin Ieraka in Laconia is one of these places. A village that has managed to escape mass tourism, disconnected and surrounded by a unique landscape. Limin Ieraka is the perfect off-the-beaten-path destination in Greece.

Location

Limin Gerakas is located in the Laconia region of the Peloponnese, 4 hours away from Athens airport. You can easily reach the village from Monemvasia by car. The scenic road leads North-East and takes you through green mountains and beautiful sea-side views. This idyllic village is also part of our 10-day road trip through the Peloponnese.

Landscape

The landscape around Limin Ieraka is unique in Greece. A deep, fjord-like inlet surrounded by green mountains. In the middle of the water is a small island, and besides the few village houses the area is untouched. The perfect background to relax!

Mythology

The eastern tip of Ierakas is home to the archeological site of Zarex. Zarex was a not well-known hero in ancient Greek mythology. He knew Apollo, as this famous god himself taught Zarex music. Besides, he founded the city of Zarakas around 1200 B.C. However, in the 2nd century A.D., the site was already in ruins. Today, only a few walls of the ancient city are preserved, but the view from the site is marvelous.

The experience

Limin Ieraka is a small fishing village, and there is no better way to experience this site than by the taste of delicious fresh fish. Sit down along the waterfront at Remetzo. Order a few dishes of fish, seafood, and salad. Pair it with a cold glass of ouzo or wine and simply enjoy the landscape, as well as the tranquil atmosphere around.

After lunch, you can swim at the end of the only village road. The beach here is small, but the water is clear and blue. Once you have cooled off, you can hike up to the ancient city of Zarex and enjoy the most beautiful view this village has to offer.

Tips

• Limin Ieraka is the perfect day trip to escape the busy and touristic Monemvasia. Another option is to follow our 10-day road trip through the Peloponnese.
• During the summer months, there are quite some wasps in the area. Although this shows that the environment around the village is healthy, they can be annoying when you’re eating. Wasps love fish bones as they get protein from them. During your lunch, you can ask for a spare plate for the bones, so the wasps don’t come to your plate. Another option is to ask the waiter to burn coffee for you. This is a Greek tradition, and it is believed that smoke from burning coffee keeps wasps away.
• The road to the archeological site of Zarex is a dirt road that starts from the parking area on the lake. The easiest is to leave your car here and walk to the ancient site. However, don’t forget to take plenty of water and sunblock with you when you visit during the summer months.