Messinia is an extremely charming region of Greece that offers a wealth of experiences for every visitor. It combines ancient history, with a variety of archaeological treasures, a rich cultural heritage and impressive natural beauty with endless beaches, gorges, waterfalls and lush mountains.
In Messinia there are many beautiful villages worth visiting.
Discover the unique routes of Messinia with excursions that will amaze you:
Kardamili
The village belongs to Western Mani and is located at the base of Taygetos, offering stunning views of the mountain and the Messinian Gulf. It is known for the traditional stone houses of the area and the beautiful paths through nature making it ideal for hiking and outdoor activities.
It is worth visiting the neighbouring seaside villages of Stoupa, Agios Nikolaos and Trachila, as well as the mountain villages on the slopes of Taygetos, Neochori, Kastania, Saidona and Milia.
Koroni - Methoni
Koroni and Methoni are two of the most enchanting seaside towns in Messinia, offering a rich experience to their visitors with their two medieval castles. Being about half an hour away from each other, they are worth visiting as each has its own unique characteristics, and are destinations full of history, natural beauty and culture.
It is worth visiting the nearby seaside villages that you will meet on the route - Petalidi, Finikounda and Sapienza, which is the largest island of the Messinian Oinousses.
Pylos
Pylos is a picturesque town in the southern part of Messinia, full of history and natural beauty. During your visit, you will enjoy the stunning view of the bay of Pylos, which is one of the most impressive natural creations of the region. Visit Niokastro, an archaeological treasure that reflects the era of the Turkish Empire and the monument of Navarino, where one of the greatest sea battles of the 19th century took place. One of the most important attractions is the Palace of Nestor, which includes archaeological finds and architectural elements from the ancient city of Pylos.
It is worth visiting perhaps the most famous beach in Messinia, Voidokilia beach, with its distinctive shape resembling the omega of the alphabet. The picturesque seaside settlement of Gialova, the beach of Golden Beach or Divari, the Lagoon of Gialova and Sfaktiria, the smallest island of the Messinian Oinousses with its exotic beaches.
Polylimnio
It is a unique water paradise, within walking distance from Kalamata, created by 15 small lakes, which due to the uneven ground create waterfalls. Lake Kadi is the one that dominates both in beauty and surface area and which is ideal for swimming in its cold waters. It is mainly a summer destination, since in the winter months the waters of the lakes and the increased humidity make the route very difficult.
Neda Waterfalls
The river Neda has taken its name from Greek mythology. During your visit you will have the opportunity to walk along the river banks, passing by wooden bridges, through huge plane trees, oaks and dense vegetation, to reach the unique waterfalls.
It is worth visiting the temple of Apollo Epicurus at an altitude of 1130 meters, also known as the "Parthenon" of the Peloponnese. The temple has the oldest Corinthian capitals and combines the Archaic style and the Doric style with some innovative architectural elements.
Mount Taygetos
Taygetos is the highest mountain of the Peloponnese with the legendary phenomenon of the "Pyramid", with forests full of fir and black pine trees, cool streams, rivers and gorges, it is an ideal destination for hiking, mountaineering and climbing. In addition to its unique nature, the mountain has exemplary trail signage, even for less experienced hikers. Moreover, in its beautiful mountain villages you will find guesthouses, taverns and restaurants to enjoy the authentic local gastronomy.
It is worth visiting the villages of Nedousa with its stone bridges, Alagonia with its plane trees and waterfalls, Artemisia with its historical monuments and sights, Pigis with its many running waters and Kato Karveli with its unique view of the Messinian Gulf.
