The village of Stoupa is located in the Exo [outer] Mani in the Greek Peleponneses. It is a popular tourist destination for British and German tourists, but apparently fairly unknown to American tourists. It has a wonderful beach, and most of the usual tourist services. It is part of the municipality of Lefktro, in the prefecture of Messinia. Nikos Kazantzakis wrote Zorba the Greek while he lived here and there is a large statue of him on the cliff overlooking Kalogria beach, near a taverna. Once a sleepy little town, in the past few years more and more tourists have discovered Stoupa. There are some 20 restaurants strung out along the beach, a few small hotels, and many rental houses. Besides Greek tourists, who come mostly in August, Brits and Germans are the most frequent visitors. Few Americans have found their way to Stoupa, seeming to favor the islands. Stoupa is in a fascinating area called Mani, the only part of Greece never conquered by invaders. The Maniots built tower houses, some of which have been restored, and holed up in them carrying out local feuds. Sourced with thanks from World66.com Tucked away in an idyllic spot on the west coast of the Mani peninsula stands the gorgeous resort of Stoupa, on a broad curving beach of yellow sand, shelving gently into clear warm seas, and ending in a tiny harbour. Around the small headland is another, even better beach of pale golden sand, called Kalogria, with a couple of beachside tavernas.

Village life in Stoupa is slow paced and wonderfully relaxing, and nightlife here mainly consists of conversation with new found friends around a taverna table under the stars. A pleasant hour's stroll along the coastal path brings you to the fishing village of Aghios Nikolaos for lunch (take a taxi one way!). You may like to venture further afield on day trips to classical Olympia and Mystras, or marvel at the stalagmites in the nearby Diros Caves. But a holiday in Stoupa is really an excuse to unwind completely, and enjoy the sun, sea and sand in a delightful village setting - in short, an absolutely classic Greek holiday! Sourced with thanks from Kosmar.co.uk

Wikipedia articles for Stoupa

• Lefktro
• Stoupa
• Agios Nikolaos, Messinia
• Petrovouni, Messinia