It is not surprising that like an intriguing muse cloaked in abundant natural beauty and bejeweled with historical gems, Messinia has seduced legendary writers such as Nikos Kazantzakis, Patrick Leigh- Fermor or Bruce Chatwin, who, while staying with “Paddy” at Kardamyli, wrote The Songlines, and even requested to have his ashes scattered there. Since 2010, the world-class Costa Navarino Resort has earned Messinia a prominent place on the global tourism map, drawing a plethora of sophisticated visitors to admire and attest to the cultural, natural and historical wealth of the region. Seasoned travelers head there to lose – or find – themselves on pristine coastlines with secluded bays and hidden waterfalls, in ancient olive groves and fruitful vineyards, in deep gorges and along demanding paths on Mt Taygetus, while exploring scenic traditional mountain villages with old, stone-built houses.
Access to Messinia has become a simple matter thanks to the new national highway as well as the airport at Messinia’s capital, Kalamata, home to the indigenous black olive, a fine museum, a vibrant shopping scene and a world-acclaimed 20-year-old dance festival.
HIGHLIGHTS
CITY OLD & NEW
Famous for its delicious olives and olive oil, Kalamata combines its ancient past with its modern face, pulsating with life and home to an edgy annual dance festival.
ANCIENT MESSENE
Much of this sprawling archaeological site has been impeccably restored. Visit its museum and the Arcadian Gate before marveling at the agora and amphitheater.
GIVE ME AN Ω
As if omega-shaped Voidokilia beach wasn’t idyllic enough, nearby there is also Natura 2000 protected Gialova Lagoon, as well as the legendary Cave of Nestor.
DIAMOND OF MESSINIA
Discover Kardamyli’s splendid array of beaches, follow one of the many paths leading to Mt Taygetus, or just soak up Venetian-style architecture against gorgeous backdrops.
SPIRIT OF ADVENTURE
Precipitous cliffs, lush vegetation, stone bridges, underwater caves and steep waterfalls beckon adventurers to the amazing gorges of Neda, Viros and Ridomo.
MAJESTIC FORTRESSES
Visit Methoni and Koroni, once known as the “eyes of Venice” on account of their strategic location, to admire imposing seafront castles and attractive beaches.
HISTORY WITH A VIEW
Built on a rocky promontory by the Franks in the 13th century, the fortress of Palaiokastro today affords sweeping views of Navarino Bay, Gialova Lagoon and the picturesque town of Pylos.
