Velanidia
A conglomeration of white cubes with touches of blue, green and brown tumble down the steep hillside, inviting visitors to wander and compare this pretty village with islands such as Spetses. It is no coincidence that this village was home to a population of seamen and fishermen and a large fleet of fishing boats back when the inhabitants numbered close on 1,000 souls, served by some 14 tavernas and 12 grocery stores.
Built around 1770 by Spetsiots fleeing their island and who brought with them their knowledge of seamanship, the whitewashed houses with their flower-filled courtyards bear witness to the mentality of their owners. Simple churches are everywhere, even on a cliff overlooking the village. Right next to the little fishing harbour is a long pebbly beach. Opportunities for hiking abound, as Velanidia is the starting point for one of the most interesting routes leading to the northern side of Cape Maleas and its lighthouse, passing wonderful beaches, Byzantine chapels, ruined water mills.
