Hidden on the slopes of southeastern Mount Parnon, amid a lush green landscape, Kosmas, also known as the «balcony of Kynouria», is a traditional village ideal for «peaceful» mountain getaways.
With stone-built villages of distinctive architecture, lush forests and scenes of wild mountain beauty, Mount Parnon, the mountain that separates Arcadia from Laconia, is an ideal destination for lovers of «serene» mountain escapes.
One of its most beautiful villages is Kosmas, known as the «balcony of Kynouria». Built on the southeastern slopes of Parnon, in the prefecture ofArcadia, at an elevation of 1.150 m.,thispeaceful traditional settlement of the Municipality of South Kynouria lies in a verdant landscape with abundant waters and wonderful fir forests that will enchant you.
Kosmas: A village - a gem on Mount Parnon
Kosmas can be reached either via Sparta or via Leonidio. The first road is shorter, but the second, which runsparallel to the shores of the eastern Peloponnese, will offer you many beautiful views. If you choose the second route, keep in mind that from Leonidio to Kosmas (30 km distance) you will encounter many successive bends. One thing is certain: the destination will more than reward you.
The village has been dubbed the «balcony of Kynouria» - and not without reason. When the weather permits, Hydra and Spetses are visible on the horizon. Kosmas has lovely stone-built houses and a beautiful square shaded by enormous plane trees, at the center of which stands the imposing Church of Agioi Anargyroi. Behind the church are the Lions, the traditional fountains that spring water from the surrounding slopes.
The setting is ideal for relaxing over your coffee, meze, as well as traditional galaktoboureko. At the taverna Maleatis Apollon you can try kid goat, boiled goat and pitaroudes (local greens pies). For accommodation in the village there is the Ouranogeiton Guesthouse.
Dont miss the chance to hike in the wonderful chestnut forestat the foot of the village. Starting from Kosmas you can also take mini excursions to Leonidio and Geraki with its Byzantine castle-town, as well as day trips to Mystras, Gytheio, Monemvasia and more.
Be sure to stop at the impressive Monastery of Elona, one of the best-known monasteries of Arcadia, between Kosmas and Leonidio. It is built on a precipitous reddish rock and offers exceptional views over the surrounding area.
