Located in a valley at the base of Mount Parnon, on the east coast of the Peloponnese. The town is known for its stunning red limestone cliffs, which tower above the houses like a fiery waterfall and provide excellent climbing routes. In fact, Leonidio is becoming a popular destination for cooler winter climbing in Greece.
The area around Leonidio is dotted with crags that are mostly suited for sport climbing. There is great potential for further climbing development in Leonidio, but it’s worth noting that some routes are not yet entirely free of loose rock, many approach paths are poorly marked, and some crags are hard to locate.
Climbing in Leonidio is enjoyable and varied, with tufa columns, smooth crimpy walls, caves with stalactites, and grey balancy walls. Most of the climbing takes place at crags on the surrounding hillsides, rather than directly above the town. Overall, Leonidio is a great destination for climbers looking to explore a new and exciting place.
Not only is climbing a thrilling and popular tourist activity in Leonidio, it is also a growing industry in Greece that promotes sustainability and supports local economies. The establishment of the climbing park has the potential to extend the tourist season and bring economic benefits to the Municipality of South Kynouria.
In addition to maintaining and improving existing infrastructure, the partnership has plans to open new trails and complete the mapping and marking of all routes. They also aim to create promotional materials, such as a newsletter and digital content, and to promote the park in both the Greek and international press.
There are a whole host of events planned for the promotion of the climbing park which bring together climbers and athletes from around the world and include happenings like the Climbing Marathon. These festival is a fantastic opportunity to showcase the raw beauty of South Kynouria and the wider region of Peloponnese, as well as to highlight the potential for alternative tourism in the area.
Leonidio itself is a charming small town with a rich history and culture. Visitors can explore the traditional stone houses and narrow streets of the old town, visit the Church of Agios Georgios, and try local specialties such as the famous Tsakonian pies at one of the town’s tavernas. The town is also home to a number of museums and cultural centers, such as the Tsakonian Folklore Museum and the Cultural Center of Leonidio, where you can learn more about the history and traditions of the area.
But Leonidio has more to offer than just cultural attractions – it’s also a paradise for beach lovers. The town is located on the coast of the Aegean Sea and boasts a number of stunning sandy beaches with crystal-clear waters. These include the popular beaches of Psili Ammos and Stoupa, as well as the secluded cove of Tripiti. Whether you want to relax on the sand, swim in the crystal-clear waters, or try your hand at water sports such as snorkeling and stand-up paddle-boarding, Leonidio’s beaches have something for everyone.
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