life on the estate
At Kinsterna, hospitality is lived as a way of life, shaped by close contact with the land and the rhythm of everyday life on the estate. The farm, home to sheep, horses, donkeys, and deer, forms an integral part of the place and its daily routine. Eggs collected each morning from the henhouse, vegetables grown in the estate gardens, our mushroom production, and honey from the estate’s beehives form the basis of an honest farm-to-table approach. The walk to the vineyard passes through prickly pear groves, whose fruit we serve at breakfast in August. At the Kinsterna production space in Koulentia, our products are made, including our signature cream soap and herbal infusions, with visits available by appointment. Life at the mansion is grounded in self-sufficiency, authentic rural practice, closeness to nature, and local tradition, unfolding in step with the seasons and the people who shape it.
Mansion’s and Garden’s guided tour
Discover the history of this historic mansion through a guided walk across its spaces and the architectural details of the Byzantine building. Learn about the lives of the people who inhabited it over time, as well as its careful restoration. The visit continues across the estate, with a walk through the gardens and orchards, where more than 250 varieties of plants, flowers, and vegetables are cultivated.
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Kneading and baking bread in the wood-fired oven
Learn the secrets of traditional bread-making from our kitchen’s baker, as bread is sifted and kneaded by hand. Take part in the process by shaping loaves or helping with their baking in the old stone wood-fired oven, and taste warm propyra, an ancient Greek type of bread, fresh from the oven.
Bicycle ride in the estate
The estate offers a calm and natural setting for cycling, along paths that follow the landscape and the rhythm of nature. Move through the estate by bicycle, take time to observe your surroundings, and enjoy being outdoors at an unhurried pace. Bicycles are available to guests for use within the estate.
Horse carriage ride or a jaunt with our donkey A ride through the estate’s gardens in the Egyptian royal carriage from 1900 offers a sense of stepping back in time. For our younger guests, there is also the opportunity to enjoy a ride on our friendly donkey.
Discover the art of soap making
Discover the process of making handmade olive oil soap. Follow the stages of soap making as the process is presented and the soap is poured into moulds, while you take part selectively in the flow of creation. The experience concludes with the soap itself, offered as a personal care item, crafted with simplicity and natural ingredients from the estate.
Candle making with natural beeswax
Discover the traditional craft of candle making through the creation of handmade candles using natural beeswax. Follow the stages of the process and create your own candle, which you may decorate with ribbons and simple natural elements, in connection with nature and the rhythm of the estate. Candle making is also suitable for children, as it offers a creative and engaging activity.
Beekeeping workshop
Meet the art of beekeeping from Kinsterna’s beehives, a practice that has a long tradition in the region due to its mild climate and beautiful, aromatic flora. During this workshop you will have the opportunity to discover the unique organisation of bee populations and the social structure of the honeybee colony. You will become familiar with many aspects of the art of beekeeping, including its history, tools and clothing used, bee products, the inspection of the hives and, most importantly you will be able to observe the process of extracting honey from the honeycombs.
Honey extraction demonstration
During your breakfast you may have the opportunity to watch our beekeeper and the honey extraction system from a centrifugal extractor that distills fresh honey, which you can taste later together with your breakfast.
Honey tasting
Taste Kinsterna’s honeys through a tasting of eight different varieties. The tasting allows time to observe aromas and flavours, highlighting the differences shaped by nature and the cycle of production. It offers a quiet way to connect with honey and its place in the life and everyday rhythm of the estate.
Traditional cooking workshop
Participate in our traditional cooking workshop and enjoy the magic of fresh vegetables picked up from our garden with our cooking team. During the experience, you will have the opportunity to learn about the local cooking secrets and take home recipes of dishes that you will not only cook but also savour afterwards at Kinsterna’s Mouries restaurant, a complimentary basis for our guests to use within the estate.
Wine tasting
During the wine-tasting Kinsterna experience, you will have the opportunity to learn about the local wines and their characteristics, enjoy their exquisite bouquet, and sample the finest wines of the region. These include Kinsterna’s own special wines, produced from grapes harvested at the estate’s own vineyard on the hill opposite the mansion, as well as the legendary ‘Monemvasia–Malvasia’, prized since the 12th century and awarded with the coveted PDO designation since 2010.
Olive oil tasting
Taste multiple varieties of Greek olive oil under a tree shadow, next to our traditional stone mill, surrounded by nature. Learn about olives’ harvest, olive oil quality, production and health benefits. Experience how to taste olive oil according to the official tasting protocol, noticing the aroma’s and flavor’s palettes for each sample. Bring to your daily life hints about how to select, store, cook olive oil and combine it with your favourite food!
Adopt your own olive tree
By adopting an olive tree, you become part of the story behind the flavour, supporting local agriculture and Kinsterna’s long-standing tradition of olive oil production. You may choose to have your own olive tree at the Kinsterna estate, continuing this tradition, with the option of a personal dedication on a small plaque and periodic updates on its progress as it grows.
Horseback riding
Visitors may go off on a ride of their choice, accompanied by the estate’s horse trainer, while more experienced riders may take longer rides by special arrangement. The ride and the contact with the horses offer a calm experience suitable for all levels and ages.
Παραδοσιακό
Fishing boat trip
Enjoy a private boat outing in the calm waters of Elafonisos, combining swimming and fishing. Join a boat tour with Captain Nikolas to learn traditional fishing techniques and the secrets of the sea. Catch sea urchins, clams, and other seafood while enjoying light snacks on board. Finish the day with a traditional Greek dinner at a seaside taverna, as the sun sets.
Hiking
Follow the path leading to Kinsterna’s private vineyards and explore the surrounding Byzantine trails, set among hills and open landscapes. On a separate route, you may discover the ruins of a Hellenistic fortress (250 BC) and the area’s natural spring. The European E33 trail offers a two-hour walk through nature, arranged in coordination with the activities manager, and may be combined with a visit to the Ottoman residence dating from 1760.
Private boat cruises
Choose among calm escapes aboard Kinsterna’s boat. Enjoy a sunrise cruise, swim at the serene and secluded Damos beach with clear blue waters or pause at the Bay of Epidaurus Limera for a swim and time at ease. Take in the view of the medieval castle rock from the sea and complete the experience with a meal at one of the traditional tavernas at the port of Gerakas, the southernmost natural fjord in Europe.
Private sailing cruises in Elafonisos
Set sail towards Simos Beach on Elafonisos and spend time swimming in the area’s clear turquoise waters. Along the way, discover selected points of interest such as the Petrified Forest or the submerged ancient city of Pavlopetri, with snorkeling equipment provided. Complete the experience with a meal during your stay on Elafonisos, with routes adapted to your preferences.
Car excursions
Explore parts of Monemvasia and the surrounding area through organized car excursions. Visit the Castle of Monemvasia, a preserved medieval town set on the rock with its stone-paved alleys and monuments, and the Kastania Cave, known for its dense and varied formations of stalactites and stalagmites, placing it second of its kind in Europe.
Visit Kinsterna antique shop
Explore our antique shop, located within the mansion, and discover everyday objects from the past, each with its own story. Learn how and why they were once used, such as the traditional wooden floor loom that recalls the way household textiles were woven and choose authentic objects to take home. At the antique shop, you may also find estate products available to take with you, including wines, olive oil, preserves, spoon sweets, and cream soap.
Enjoy the grape harvest and pressing (from mid-August until late-September)
Participate in the grape harvest at our vineyard, located on the hill opposite the mansion, from which Kinsterna’s wines are produced. Discover the grape varieties cultivated here and learn about the care of the vineyard and the first stages of winemaking. Experience the traditional ritual of grape stomping, performed barefoot in the old wine press, and celebrate with us as in earlier times, with Greek music, local flavours, and the wine born from the estate’s land.
‘Tsipouro’ distillation, traditional Greek spirit (from end of September to mid-October)
Approximately forty days after the grapes are crushed, the production of tsipouro commences. Tsipouro is the perfect accompaniment to a variety of appetizers and freshly baked bread. The process of producing tsipouro takes place using the estate’s own Ottoman sealed cauldron from 1890. At the end of the process, you may take home a bottle of tsipouro produced during the experience.
Οlive harvest & production of olive oil (from October until December)
Olive oil production is one of Greece’s core agricultural traditions. Observe how olives are crushed in the old stone mill using traditional methods, or prepare table olives following the estate’s recipe. The experience concludes with an olive oil tasting and small bites prepared by the chef.
At Kinsterna, wellbeing begins with the land and what it provides. The estate’s philosophy of producing and using what the land offers is carried into the Spa through our Kinsterna Signature treatments. These treatments draw on ingredients from the estate, such as olive oil, honey, grapes, and tsipouro, used with simplicity and respect, without industrial cosmetics.
• Massage & body treatments • Beauty services • Yoga & Pilates classes (upon request)
Outdoor wellbeing & leisure activities
In the open-air areas of the estate, you are invited to enjoy gentle activities that combine movement and relaxation. The padel court, outdoor table football, billiards, and ping pong, set beneath the old eucalyptus trees, offer moments of play and ease, following a slow, unhurried pace in close connection with nature.
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At Kinsterna, the estate setting offers children and teenagers the space to reconnect with the land and take part in simple outdoor activities.
• Swimming in the children’s pool
• Horseriding
• Ride on our donkey or in the traditional royal carriage
• Olive or grape picking
• Cycling
• Visit the henhouse
• Outdoor playground with tree house
• Indoor playground
• Feeding the farm animals
• Grooming the horses
• Giant chess
• Telescope observation
Κ. Ιστορικό κτήριο / Historic mansion
A, B, C, D, E, Z, H Κατοικίες / Residences
D. Βίλες / Villas
1. Υποδοχή / Reception
2. Εστιατόριο “Sterna” / “Sterna” restaurant
3. Μπαρ “Belvedere” / “Belvedere” bar
4. Εστιατόριο “Mουριές” / “Mouries” restaurant
5. Ταβέρνα “Λινός” / “Linos” tavern
6. Kαθιστικό / Lounge
7. Mπαρ “Mουριές” / “Mouries” bar
8. Xώρος πρωινού, εκδηλώσεων
Breakfast area, ballroom
9. Μπαρ πισίνας / Pool bar
10.
/ Adults pool
11. Οικογενειακή πισίνα / Family pool
12. Χώρος χαλάρωσης / Pool relaxation area
13. Ηλιακό ρολόι / Solar watch
14. Είσοδος spa / Spa entrance
15. Εξωτερικός χώρος spa / Outdoor spa area
16. Βιβλιοθήκη, κελάρι / Library, cellar
17. Παλαιοπωλείο / Antique shop / Κinsterna products
18. Γυμναστήριο / Fitness centre
19. Kinsterna Fashion Boutique
20. Πληροφορίες εμπειριών / Experiences info desk
21. Παιδότοπος / Playroom
22. Παιδική χαρά, δεντρόσπιτο Playground, tree house
23. Μποστάνια, περιβόλια / Vegetable garden
24. Πορτοκαλεώνες / Orange groves
25. Φάρμα / Farm
26. Χώρος εστίασης αιωνόβιας ελιάς Dining area centuries-old olive tree
27. Εκκλησία / Chapel
28. Αμπέλια / Vineyards
29. Φραγκόσυκα / Prickly pears
30. Ευκάλυπτοι,
/ Eukalyptus trees, natural designated monument
31.
κερί Demonstration of traditional products making: bread, olive oil, wine, tsipouro, soap, candle
32. Xώρος δραστηριοτήτων:
| Activities area: cycling, horse riding, carriage or donkey ride
33. Χώρος υιοθεσίας ελιάς / Olive tree adoption area
34. Parking 1
35. Parking 2
36. Parking 3 (EV charging)
37. Μονοπάτι για αμπέλια / Vineyards hiking route
38. Μονοπάτι για πηγή / Hiking water spring route
39. Καλλιέργεια μανιταριών / Μushroom cultivation
40. Δραστηριότητες αναψυχής / Recreational activities (billiard, ping pong, tabler soccer, petanque)
41. Γήπεδο Padel / Padel court
42. Λόφος Μαλέα / Malea’s hill
43. Kαστράκι 13ου αιώνα / Castle ruins 13th century
44. Πηγή / Spring
45. Μελισσομάντρι / Bee-yard
The Medieval castle of Monemvasia
The gorgeous castle town of Monemvasia is an authentic treasure of enormous historical, architectural, cultural and geographical importance. Today, its historic churches, such as the Byzantine church of St. Sophia, castle walls, low arches, vaulted passageways and its winding cobbled streets and alleys all speak of its medieval past. This Byzantine fortress, coveted down through the ages by all the powers around the Mediterranean: Venetians, Franks, Arabs, Saracens and Turks, stands today imperiously at the entrance to one of the most enchanting corners of Peloponnese.
(200-150 π.Χ.)
Gerakas
Do not miss this picturesque traditional fishing village set in the southernmost fjord of Europe. Visitors can also find Gerakas a wonderful place to visit and eat, with fish restaurants and traditional cafés right on the water’s edge – with a priceless view on both the sea and the mountains. Only 200 meters away lie the ruins of the ancient city of Zarakas (200-150 B.C.).
Talanta Watermill
Talanta watermill is the only remaining mill of the 11 initially found in the area, which was restored to its former glory and operates today with watergenerated energy. The watermill is an excellent example of traditional technology. It is located in a wonderful natural environment filled with walnut, plane and myrtle trees.
Ancient City of Pavlopetri
Visitors intrigued by lost cities in crystal blue waters will be amazed by the remains of the ancient city of Pavlopetri, which is located opposite the island of Elafonisos. Don’t forget to take your mask to explore the turquoise crystal clear waters and the submerged city.
Petrified Forest
An impressive petrified forest by the sea lies east of Neapoli, with sections of palm and other trees that have turned to stone. This natural wonder is a rare phenomenon that is featured in the Atlas of Geological Monuments of the Aegean.
Kyparissi
Visit Kyparissi, a beautiful seaside village, where the ends of the mountain peaks of Parnon meet the blue waters of Myrtos sea. A traditional settlement by the sea, while difficult to access, it impresses those who seek tranquility and simplicity.
Kastania Cave
Visitors are captivated by the guided tour of the cave of Kastania, which is considered the second of its kind in Europe and dates back to the Jurassic period. The incredible stalagmites and impressive shapes are a feast for the eyes in this 1,500 m2 cave.
Geraki
A stunning Byzantine castle with sublime views of the countryside is located next to the traditional village of Geraki, known for its 12th century Byzantine churches. The remarkable hike to the castle is a must.
Elafonisos
Elafonisos island is renowned for its exotic beaches considered among the best in the Mediterranean. The white sand and turquoise water never fail to captivate all visitors. Elafonisos is just 30 minutes drive away, by car followed by a very short ferry ride.
Ambelakia
It is one of the most beautiful nearby sandy beaches which has a wonderful view to the rock of Monemvasia. During summer there is a beachbar offering sunbeds, drinks and snacks.
Agia Marina
Under the white rocks of the Petrified Forest, the light blue waters of the bay of Nymphaea spread out like a huge pool, while small idyllic beaches are formed underneath. To reach this particular beach, one must search for a passage carved into the rock. Find it and enjoy all this magic for yourself!
Pounta
A quiet sandy beach that ends at the port of Pounta from where the ferry boat departs for Elafonisos island every day. This is a beautiful beach with golden sand that is less than 30 minutes’ drive away from the mansion.
To find out more information about the activities’ program or to schedule an experience of your preference, please contact the Front Desk or the Guest Experience Manager.
experience@kinsternahotel.gr / Τ. +30 27320 66300 ext. 804
