Location: Greece
Nearest Airport:
Kalamata at 45
Kilometres
Nearest Ferry:
Patras at 200
Kilometres
Nearest Beach:
beach at 3.0
Metres
Car: necessary
The area of south-west Messinia, untouched by mass tourism and largely undeveloped, is perfect for the independent holidaymaker. Here are olive groves and lush green countryside, forested mountains hiding deep gorges with rivers and waterfalls, and hundreds of kilometres of unspoiled sandy beaches. Nearby is Gialova lagoon, a protected wildlife and bird sanctuary where flamingoes spend the winter, and Voidokilia, one of the best beaches in Europe. Archaeological sites such as ancient Olympia, ancient Messini and the Palace of Nestor are all within reach. The nearest town, Pylos, is a pretty, stylish port with a marina, many good bars, restaurants and shops, 4 banks, a post office and a good health centre. You can enjoy a coffee in the shade of an enormous old plane tree in the charming central platea, visit one the two impressive castles, or take a boat trip to one of the islands. The Mani, around 2 hours drive away, is also well worth a visit.