Pause at the lakeside monastery after the cave and look carefully at the exterior painting
Mavriotissa makes a natural continuation from Dragon Cave, but it should not be reduced to a scenic rest stop. The monastery church and chapel preserve layers of painting, including unusual exterior frescoes, while the lakeside position explains why this end of the peninsula feels removed from the town despite being close by.
Treat the complex as an active religious place. Dress with shoulders and knees covered, lower voices and ask before photographing interiors or worshippers. Opening is tied to the monastery rather than a standard museum timetable. Plane-tree shade makes the setting pleasant in summer, but roots and old paving create uneven ground. Continue on foot only if daylight and weather suit the peninsula route.
Good to know
Byzantine monastery, Exterior frescoes, Lakeside, Active worship, and Plane trees
