Is Levidi a good place for a beach holiday?
Levidi itself is a mountain village in Arcadia, Peloponnese, and does not have its own beaches. However, it can serve as a base for exploring the Peloponnese region, including the beaches of Nafplio, which are about an hour's drive away. The best time to visit for a beach-focused holiday in the region is during the summer months of June to August when the weather is warm and sunny, and the sea temperature is ideal for swimming.
How far is Levidi from the nearest beaches?
Levidi is located in the mountains. The nearest beaches, such as those near Nafplio (like Karathona or Arvanitia) or Paralio Astros, are approximately an hour's drive away. For example, Karathona beach is about 49km from Levidi center, and Foneas Beach is about 90.9km away.
What are the beaches like near Levidi (e.g., Nafplio or Paralio Astros)?
Beaches accessible from Levidi, such as those in the Nafplio area (Argolic Gulf) or near Paralio Astros (Myrtoan Sea), offer variety. You can find sandy beaches like Karathona near Nafplio, which is popular with families due to its shallow waters, or Tolo beach, also known for its sandy shores and clear waters. There are also pebble beaches like Kondyli, known for its clean, deep waters. Some beaches are organized with amenities, while others are more secluded.
Can you swim in the sea near Levidi, and what is the water like?
While Levidi itself is inland, the coastal areas reachable within about an hour's drive, like the Argolic Gulf near Nafplio or the Myrtoan Sea coast, offer good swimming opportunities. The water is generally described as clear and clean. Some beaches have shallow waters suitable for families, like Karathona and Tolo, while others like Kondyli have deeper waters. Sea temperatures are warmest and best for swimming from June to August.
Are there accommodation options in Levidi that are good for beach day trips?
Levidi offers traditional guesthouses and hotels. While these are not beachfront properties, they can serve as a comfortable base for day trips to the coast. Staying in Levidi allows you to experience a mountain village atmosphere while still being able to drive to various beaches in the Peloponnese for the day. Some accommodations like Villa Vager Levidi are highlighted as good bases for exploring the wider region, including coastal areas.
What's the best time of year for a beach trip if I'm staying in Levidi?
If you're planning to visit beaches from Levidi, the best time is during the summer months, from June to August. During this period, the weather is warm and sunny, and the sea temperatures are perfect for swimming and water activities. Spring (late May/early June) and early autumn (September/early October) can also be pleasant, with fewer crowds, though the sea might be cooler.
Are there family-friendly beaches within reach of Levidi?
Yes, there are family-friendly beaches accessible from Levidi. Tolo Beach is known for being family-friendly with shallow, clear waters and sandy shores. Karathona beach near Nafplio is also popular with families because its waters remain shallow for a long distance. Lileika beach, on the way to Paralio Astros, has shallow, sandy areas ideal for children.
How do I get to the beaches from Levidi?
To reach the beaches from Levidi, you will need to travel by car. The coastal areas like Nafplio or Paralio Astros are about an hour's drive. Renting a car is recommended to explore the different beaches and coastal towns in the Peloponnese.
Are there any quiet or secluded beaches I can visit from Levidi?
While popular beaches near Nafplio can get busy, the Peloponnese coastline, particularly in Arcadia, has numerous coves and less crowded spots. Exploring the coastline towards South Kynouria and Leonidio might reveal more secluded pebble or stone beaches, especially if you visit outside the peak months of July and August. Some sources mention smaller coves near Vivari or more remote beaches like Gianiskari (though further away).
What are some popular beaches near Nafplio that I can visit from Levidi?
Popular beaches near Nafplio that are accessible from Levidi include Karathona, a long sandy beach popular with families; Arvanitia, Nafplio's town beach with pebbles and rocks; and Kondyli (also known as Agios Nikolaos), a large, popular beach with sand and pebbles, considered one of the best in the area. Tolo beach, a bit further, is also a well-known sandy and organized option.
Is it better to stay in Levidi and drive to beaches, or stay in a coastal town like Nafplio?
This depends on your holiday priorities. If you want to be directly by the sea and have easy daily access to beaches, staying in a coastal town like Nafplio or Paralio Astros would be more suitable. If you prefer a mountain village experience, cooler temperatures, and are happy to drive for an hour to visit beaches as part of day trips exploring the diverse Peloponnese region (which includes mountains, ancient sites, and coastline), then Levidi can be a good choice.
Are there any beaches in Arcadia itself, or do I have to go to Argolis (Nafplio area)?
Arcadia does have a coastline along the Myrtoan Sea, with beaches accessible from Levidi, though it's a drive. Paralio Astros is a key coastal town in Arcadia with a long beach. Other Arcadian beaches mentioned include Viles (white pebbles, impressive caves), Lileika (sandy, shallow, sea caves), and Kryoneri. So, while Nafplio in Argolis is a popular option, you can also explore Arcadian beaches.
What kind of activities can I do at the beaches near Levidi besides swimming?
Besides swimming, some beaches offer water sports, especially the more organized ones like Kondyli or Kourouta (though Kourouta is further west). Beaches near towns like Nafplio or Paralio Astros will have cafes, tavernas, and beach bars. Some areas are good for walking along the coast. For example, Portes beach near Paralio Astros is popular with kite and windsurfers. Some more remote beaches might be good for snorkeling due to clear waters.
