Family Cultural Escape to Monemvasia, Greece

A Fond Farewell

As our ten-day adventure in Monemvasia draws to a close, I find myself reflecting on the incredible experiences we've shared as a family. From exploring ancient ruins to savoring delicious Greek cuisine, this trip has been a tapestry of culture, history, and natural beauty. Today, we set out to capture a few last moments of Monemvasian magic before heading back to Berlin, hearts full of memories and sun-kissed skin.

Our final day began, as many others did, with a delightful breakfast at Mateo's. The aroma of freshly baked bread and strong Greek coffee filled the air, energizing us for the day ahead. Lena, Kai, and I enjoyed a leisurely meal, reminiscing about our favorite moments from the past week. I savored the grilled octopus, a specialty Mateo's is known for, while Lena enjoyed marinated anchovies. Kai, ever the growing teenager, devoured a hearty portion of local cheese and bread, fueling up for our final explorations.


Experience fresh seafood and local brews at Mateo's in Gefira - where every meal is a taste of Greece.

After breakfast, we decided to immerse ourselves in the local wine culture with a visit to Malvasia-Archantiko Stellaki. The vineyard was a short drive away, and the scenery along the way was simply breathtaking. Rolling hills covered in grape vines stretched as far as the eye could see, with the azure Aegean Sea shimmering in the distance. Upon arrival, we were greeted by the friendly staff who guided us through a tasting of their finest Malvasia wines. It was fascinating to learn about the history of this sweet, fortified wine, which dates back to the medieval times when Monemvasia was a major trading port. Lena, with her refined palate, particularly enjoyed the aged varieties, while Kai, surprisingly, showed a keen interest in the winemaking process. I found myself appreciating the subtle notes of honey and citrus in each sip, a perfect reflection of the region's sun-drenched landscape.


Experience history firsthand with a stay in a traditional Monemvasia castle hotel offering stunning views and authentic charm.

“The best journeys answer questions that in the beginning, you didn't even think to ask.”

With our newfound appreciation for Malvasia wine, we decided to soak up the sun and sea at Paralia Monemvasias. This charming pebble beach, located a short distance from the main town, offered a tranquil escape from the bustling streets. We laid out our towels, applied sunscreen, and plunged into the refreshing waters of the Aegean. The water was crystal clear, and the gentle waves lapped against the shore, creating a soothing symphony of sounds. Kai, ever the adventurous one, spent his time snorkeling, discovering the underwater world teeming with marine life. Lena and I simply relaxed on the beach, soaking up the sun and enjoying the stunning views of Monemvasia rock. For lunch, we grabbed some delicious gyros from a nearby taverna and enjoyed a picnic on the beach, savoring the simple pleasures of Greek cuisine.


Enjoy the clear waters and breathtaking views of Monemvasia's iconic fortress from this charming pebbly beach in Gefira.

As the afternoon wore on, we decided to indulge in a bit of luxury with a visit to Moni Emvasis Luxury Suites. While we weren't staying there, we had heard rave reviews about their exquisite facilities and decided to treat ourselves to a cocktail at their bar. The suites were stunning, exuding an air of elegance and sophistication. The views from the terrace were simply unparalleled, offering panoramic vistas of the sea and the medieval town. We sipped on our cocktails, marveling at the beauty that surrounded us, and felt a sense of gratitude for the incredible journey we had undertaken.


Experience medieval elegance and modern luxury within the historic castle walls of Monemvasia at Moni Emvasis Luxury Suites.

For our final dinner in Monemvasia, we chose Athivoli, a restaurant known for its authentic Greek cuisine and stunning views. We sat at a table overlooking the sea, watching the sun slowly dip below the horizon, painting the sky in hues of orange, pink, and purple. The ambiance was magical, and the food was even better. Lena and I shared a plate of fresh seafood, grilled to perfection and seasoned with local herbs. Kai opted for a hearty portion of moussaka, a classic Greek dish that never fails to satisfy. We savored each bite, knowing that this was our last taste of Monemvasian cuisine for a while. The staff was incredibly friendly and attentive, making us feel like part of their family. It was the perfect ending to our culinary journey in Greece.


Experience authentic Greek cuisine with a creative twist at Athivoli in Monemvasia—where tradition meets innovation.

After dinner, we strolled through the town, hand in hand, soaking up the last moments of Monemvasian charm. The narrow streets were illuminated by the soft glow of streetlights, creating a romantic and intimate atmosphere. We stopped at Di Porto, a cozy bar known for its local wines and friendly atmosphere. We ordered a bottle of Malvasia wine and raised a toast to our incredible adventure in Monemvasia. We reminisced about our favorite moments, laughed at our mishaps, and expressed our gratitude for the memories we had created together.


Experience the vibrant nightlife of Gefira at Di Porto, a cocktail bar offering unique drinks and a lively atmosphere perfect for relaxation.

As the night drew to a close, we made our way back to Ardamis Guesthouse, our home away from home for the past ten days. We packed our bags,整理 our thoughts, and prepared for our journey back to Berlin. Before drifting off to sleep, I couldn't help but feel a sense of melancholy. Monemvasia had captured our hearts, and leaving felt like saying goodbye to an old friend. However, I knew that the memories we had created here would last a lifetime.


Experience the charm of Monemvasia at Ardamis Guest House, where comfort meets local culture and stunning views await every morning.

Tomorrow, we will begin our journey back to Berlin, cherishing the scenic drive through the Peloponnese to Athens and our flight home. While our time in Monemvasia has come to an end, the spirit of this magical place will forever remain with us. I am so grateful for the opportunity to have shared this experience with my family, creating memories that will bind us together for years to come.

Before heading to bed, we decided to have one last drink at Emvasis Cafe - Cocktail Bar. The rooftop view was incredible, and we enjoyed the pleasant music. It was the perfect way to end our perfect day.


Experience exquisite Greek cuisine and artisanal cocktails at Emvasis Cafe in Monemvasia's historic castle district.

Mahalo, Monemvasia. Until we meet again.