"Fossilized Forest" Beach

In the southeast of Neapoli, you can visit the Fossilized Palm Forest located in the coastal zone of Agios Nikolaos, which is included in the Atlas of Geological Monuments.

The findings lie at a large coastal area that extends from Agia Marina in Kavomalias and reaches the Vion plane and Elafonisos. The sign-posted path starts from the chapel of Agia Marina, where there is an information stand-point, which gives information about the geological park. From here, the visitor can easily cross the route. The findings, unique in Europe, are priceless for scientific study. Fossils of tree trunks dating back to 2-3 million years ago.  At Korakas, you will find the tallest, two-metre tree trunk in the forest, known by the name of “man”. There are rare shells, algae, and other sea creature fossils among the findings. The fossilised tree trunks combined with the blue waters of Agia Marina fascinate all visitors.

According to studies, a series of geological changes, earthquakes and volcanic activity millions of years ago led to the fossilisation of the paleo flora of the region. The organic matter of trees, plants and molluscs was replaced by a solution of silicon and calcium below sea level. At that time, the climate of the area was subtropical.

The Fossilized Palm Tree is open every day during July and August, while free 15-minute guided tours are available daily, from 10:00-19:00 in Greek and in English. Admission is free. The access is through a 2-kilometre dirt road, and parking space can be found at the entrance.