Elafonisos has a unique natural wealth, exceptional landscapes and beaches, historic churches built on the ruins of Byzantine and older buildings, important folklore based on the naval tradition of the place, and well-hidden underwater secrets.
Pavlopetri Elafonisos
The sunken city, a great importance underwater monument, the ancient settlement “Pavlo Petri“, is located in Elafonisos, in the seabed between Pounta beach and Pavlopetri islet, 600 m North-Northeast from the port of Elafonisos.
Fountianika
In Fountianika area, in the northeast of the island, one can enjoy a beautiful landscape. Within an image coexist, from a symbol of ancient civilization, Pavlopetri islet and imperious Cape Malia on the other.
The Virgin Mary of Katonissiotissa
The Virgin Mary of Katonissiotissa, the characteristic monument of the area, was built in 1852 on the ruins of an old Byzantine church, a church which was renovated in 1928. Materials and stones were used from the old Byzantine temple. In the interior of the sanctuary still visible very old paintings. Around the church there are indications of Mycenaean civilization (tombs and findings). It is said that the church in ancient times was Temple of Athena.
Chapel of Saint Patapios
Agliftis (Ai Agliftis) at the westernmost point of the island, far from Panagia and opposite Cape Tainaro, lies Agliftis. The small pebbly beach is protected by the homonymous islet located a few meters from the shore. A rutty and well-hidden path from Avlaki of Panagia leads to Aglifti, the inaccessible and full of secrets this area of the island that hosts the chapel of Saint Patapios.
Karantrea Cave
Also, one of the natural attractions that one can enjoy during the short cruises that make the tourist boats around the island, is Karantrea cave, on the south side, in the sea, before the bay of Lefki. The point is only accessible only by sea.
Vardia
In the center of the island, Vardia, is the highest point of Elafonisos, altitude of 276m. From here you can enjoy the beautiful scenery from Sarakiniko and the Strait of Elafonisos to Kithira and the famous (accession on Monuments List of World Natural and Cultural Heritage of UNESCO) Peninsula of Maleas.