Located in the western part of the Peloponnese, Messenia is a region rich in exceptional historical and natural sites! Furthermore, mass tourism is unknown here. The villages have remained authentic, the beaches peaceful, the restaurants inexpensive, and the historical sites not heavily visited. In short, perfect holidays for those who love to explore and discover, far from the crowds and tourist clichés. Here is our Top 10 list of must-sees and must-do activities of Messenia, this off-the-beaten-path region of Greece near Kalamata.
1 – Pylos
Located 51km from Kalamata, the charming town of Pylos is situated in a bay enclosed by the island of Sfaktiria. A magnificent square adorned with century-old plane trees lies at the heart of the town, next to the harbor. Moreover, it was here that the French, English, and Russian fleets defeated the Ottomans in the naval Battle of Navarino, leading to the independence of Greece.
During your visit to Pylos, don’t miss:
- The Pylos Castle (Niokastro), and the Metamorphosis Soutiros Church (former mosque). From the top of the citadel, you will enjoy a superb panorama of Navarino Bay.
- The archaeological museum located next to the entrance of the fortress.
- The Palace of Nestor: Located 17km north of Pylos, the Palace of Nestor is one of the most important Mycenaean palaces in Greece. An archaeological site to visit absolutely!
2 – Voidokilia Beach
Voidokilia Beach is featured in all the guides of the region, and rightly so. It’s a perfectly round bay with white sand, a dune in the background, and a promontory with the remains of a medieval fortress. Moreover, the ascent to the castle ruins is worth it! The view of the beach, Pylos Bay, the lagoon, and the open sea is breathtaking!
3 – Methoni and its castle
A bit further south, Methoni is also a charming village with a remarkable medieval fortress. The visit not to be missed! A tip: make sure to go all the way to the end of the fortress. You will then be able to access the Bourtzi tower and have the feeling of being at the edge of the world. And the entrance fee is only 3 euros!
There are several magnificent beaches in the surroundings (Finikounda, Lambes). This whole region is beautiful, with its endless olive groves, cypress trees, and gentle hills.
4 – The waterfalls of Polylimnio
On the road to Pylos, 30km from Kalamata, in the village of Kazarma, take a left and follow the signs for Polylimnio waterfalls. After a detour of about 2km and a short downhill walk of a few minutes, you arrive at a unique site. Pools created by waterfalls become larger as you ascend, culminating in the main pool with its crystal-clear waters. A refreshing and verdant spot much appreciated during the hot season. However, the area is very crowded in summer. We advise you to visit preferably early or late in the day, wearing walking shoes. The blue-green tinted water there is impressive!
If you do not have a vehicle or wish to be accompanied, we have identified this hike with a guide. We have not tested it ourselves, but it has good reviews. Additionally, it offers pick-up from your hotel in Kalamata.
There are also other waterfalls in Messenia worth seeing, such as the Kalamaris waterfalls and those of Neda. However, we have not yet visited them.
5 – Koroni
Driving along the coast west of Kalamata, you pass through the seaside resorts of Petalidi, Kalamaki, and also Chranoi. These villages have been extensively developed with holiday homes, hotels, and restaurants. The beaches are beautiful, the sea is clean, and the view of the majestic Mani Peninsula is stunning. Then you arrive at the village of Koroni, built between its picturesque small port and the hill dominated by the Venetian fort. With its pretty streets, bougainvillea-lined stairs, and waterfront tavernas, Koroni is a charming village. Be sure to visit the fortress and the monastery inside the walls.
6 – The archaeological site of Messene
This is an extraordinary and well-preserved site, located about a 45-minute drive from Kalamata. The city flourished from the 4th century BC until the 4th century AD. Nowadays, you can admire well-preserved remnants of temples, sanctuaries, and an ancient theater built during the Greek and Roman periods.
7 – The Western Mani
Heading southeast from Kalamata, you’ll arrive at the seaside village of Kardamyli. The journey is very scenic, winding through mountains and olive groves, offering magnificent views of the sea and coastline. Kardamyli is a lovely village with a picturesque small port, charming stone houses, and ancient churches. Continuing on, you’ll reach Stoupa, and then Aghios Nikolaos, a beautiful seaside village.
During the season, don’t miss the opportunity to swim in the region’s beautiful beaches. Also, indulge in Messenian specialties at the numerous waterfront taverns.
Fun fact: Agios Nikolaos was once called Selinitsa, which means “little moon” or “little Helen.” According to legend, it was at the port of this village that Paris anchored his ship to elope with the beautiful Helen!
8 – The Temple of Apollo at Bassae
Located in the northernmost part of Messenia, the Temple of Apollo Epikourios at Bassae is a temple built between 450 and 400 BC. It is classified as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Its isolated location in the mountains makes it one of the most picturesque temples of ancient Greece. Indeed, the place is wild, which gives it a certain magic, especially in the morning or at sunset.
The temple was built to honor the god Apollo Epikourios, the god of healing and protection against diseases. But it is especially famous for its architecture and sculptures. Indeed, they were executed by one of the greatest artists of ancient Greece, Phidias, the sculptor of the Parthenon in Athens.
9 – Gastronomy and Beach: Winning Duo!
So, there is no shortage of beaches in Messenia:
- Voidokilia Beach: our top choice number 2!
- Romanos : located near Pylos, this golden sandy beach is lined with palm trees and offers a magnificent view of Navarino Bay. We really liked Rinas tavern. It’s a traditional tavern without frills, but the terrace and its plants are very pleasant. Moreover, there are two or three “homemade dishes”, you’ll feel like you’re at a Greek grandmother’s house!
- Methoni beach: near the town of Methoni and the castle, this fine sandy beach with shallow waters is ideal for swimming and relaxation, especially with children. For the evening, we recommend “Alektor” in the village of Methoni. Andreas and his wife Irina offer delicious dishes and grills; everything is fresh and homemade.
- Kardamili Beach: located in the picturesque village of Kardamili. This pebble beach offers crystal-clear water, as well as a magnificent view of the surrounding mountains. A friendly and very well-placed tavern: Psaras
- Stoupa beach: located in the seaside town of Stoupa, this fine sandy beach is lined with taverns and cafes and offers a lively and relaxed atmosphere.
- Gialova beach: Stunning, this small seaside town is full of charm with beautiful cafes, taverns, and some surprising luxury shops! We literally fell in love with an Italian restaurant, yes in Greece, it’s surprising but it was exceptional. But we advise you to book in advance… La Cucina Italiana
- The small port of Pylos has a part reserved for swimming. Very calm and beautiful, it’s actually my little favorite, beauty and simplicity! Moreover, the tavern offers traditional Greek dishes of great freshness and authenticity: the Posidonia tavern. On the central square, in the shade of the plane trees, we also recommend the café-restaurant “Platanos” which offers delicious mezzes. And to end the meal gently, a little further, at the “Krinos” pastry shop, you will find very good homemade ice creams.
10 – Messenia, a beautiful playground for sports enthusiasts
The region of Messenia is rich in landscapes and archaeological sites. But it’s also an ideal region for sports activities. Indeed, there is something for every taste and level. Here is a small selection of interesting activities that we have identified. Organized by Explore Messinia, they are also available in English and Greek.
- Sea kayaking in Kardamili and Stoupa near Kalamata, or in Navarino Bay in Pylos, or along the East Coast of Kalamata. These kayak tours last approximately 4.5 hours and have excellent reviews.
- This canyoning excursion in the Neda River is accessible to all. You’ll discover a splendid gorge with lush vegetation and crystal-clear waters.
- SUP (Stand-Up Paddleboarding) and snorkeling trip from the famous Voidokilia Beach or in the translucent waters of Kardamyli.
Want to learn even more about Messenia? We recommend reading our articles:
- A dive into the enchanting setting of Messenia (Pylos)
- Visiting Kalamata in Messenia
- Agrotourism in Greece, in the south of the Peloponnese.
Authors : Evi S., Virginie W., Céline P., the team of Live Athens
