Local history:
In antique times the name of Lefktron was Leuktron, and it belonged to Lakonia (Sparta). According to Strabon (Pausanias III 26,4) the settlement was a colony of the Boeotian Leuktra which had been claimed for ages by the Messenians. Today Stoupa-Lefktron belongs to Messenia and the so called outer Mani. Until recently the whole Mani remained fairly inaccessible. For this reason and due to its impressive landscape it still is an extremely inspirational environment for artists. E.g.: the Greek author Nikos Kazantzakis wrote his novel “Alexis Zorbas” in Stoupa.
Scenic sites in the vicinity:
Fishing village of Agios Nikolaos (4 km); Maniotic mountain villages of Pigí, Pirgos and Saidona (3-8 km); ancient village of Kardamili (5 km); Kambos gorge near Kentro (23 km); Ytilon bay and the historic village of Limeni (32 km); stalactite caverns of Pirgos Dirou (50 km); historic family fortresses and towers of Kitta and Vathia (75 km); ancient Messene at Mount Ithome (65 km); Nestor’s Palace close to Pilos (87 km).
Swimming, eating and drinking:
Stoupa has two beautiful sandy beaches which are safe for children and can be reached in a 10 to 15 minute walk from house 17 Lamda; moreover there are several pebble beaches with crystal clear water nearby.
In Stoupa and its neighboring villages of Kardamili and Agios Nikolaos you will find numerous restaurants, taverns and cafés as well as several groceries. “Essentials” are also offered by a bakery located at the access road to Lefktron (distance from house 17 Lamda appr. 700 m).