The petrified forest of Neapolis

Cavo Maleas
maleasThe petrified forest at Cape Malea is the result of a rather rare natural process. What a few million years ago was an entire forest, probably of palm trees, is now petrified creating a lunar landscape on the coast south of Neapolis town.

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Cavo Maleas - GeoparcoOne of the best spots to observe this fascinating phenomenon is about 15 km from Neapolis, shortly after the tiny fishing village of Profitis Ilias [GPS N 36.441033, E 23.141168]. There is 3 km of dirt road to get there, but it’s in excellent condition.
Cavo Maleas - GeoparcoCavo Maleas - GeoparcoCavo Maleas - Geoparco
Cavo Maleas - Geoparco
Cavo Maleas - GeoparcoCavo Maleas - Geoparco
Cavo Maleas - GeoparcoOnce on the dirt road following the signs to the Geopark, you cannot fail to notice the impressive rock formation on the left, which is used for rock climbing sessions. You are already in the middle of the petrified forest, although the landscape becomes even/ much more impressive as close as you get to the sea.
Cavo Maleas - GeoparcoCavo Maleas - Geoparco
Above is the village of Profitis Ilias, where you can stay overnight in a flat area near the church.
[GPS N 36.435744, E 23.113422]
Below is the Korakas Beach, another point where you can observe the phenomenon while enjoying the crystal clear sea. [GPS N 36.438720, E 23.096485]
Cavo Maleas - GeoparcoCavo Maleas - GeoparcoCavo Maleas - Geoparco
Cavo Maleas - Geoparco


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  1. Pingback: #32 Die letzten Tage auf Peloponnes - T4Travel - Exploring east europe

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