Messinia Holidays

from £ 416 pp

Messinia holidays are all about sandy beaches, crystal-clear waters and oodles of relaxation, Greek-style.

Laidback luxury

Messinia's got an off-the-beaten-track feel. Sitting on the south-west coast of the Peloponnese region of Greece, this resort area has plenty of unspoiled scenery, historical sights and friendly tavernas to check out. Kicking back and relaxing's usually what's on the menu here.

Venetian jewel

Game-of-Thrones-esque castles and backdrops of mountainous scenery – that's Messinia in a nutshell. The towns of Koroni and Methoni are where most of the Medieval history's at, with high and mighty fortresses dating as far back as the 15th century. Turkish baths in Methoni provide the perfect excuse to chill – especially after hiking up to its ancient ruins.

Hiking paradise

A morning hike up the Polylimnio Waterfalls is well worth the early start – it's easily the best selfie spot in Messinia. Viros Gorge is better suited to experienced hikers and is the place to go to get your history fill – lots of old monasteries hide out here.

Foneas beach

If snorkelling's your cup of tea, spend a day at Foneas Beach. With stretches of pebbly shoreline and crystal waters that are an impossible shade of aqua, it's just right for a good sunbathing sesh. There's a small canteen and a shower area nearby, so all you'll need is a bucket, spade, towel and shades.

At a glance

Re-enact Game of Thrones scenes in Messinia
Snap the sights on a walk to the Polylimnio Waterfalls
Dine with a view at coastal gourmet restaurants

Destinations in Messinia

Top Destinations

Watersports heaven

Whether you're keen for a dip in the Aegean Sea or fancy jet-skiing along the waves, Messinia's beaches have you covered. Jaw-dropping sea vistas, rocky cliffs and pine-cloaked greenery are just some of the calling cards of the area.
The big beach

Almyros Beach is a good shout for calm, swimmable waters and is a decent spot for windsurfing and sailing if you're feeling more adventurous. As it's the most popular beach around, you'll find plenty of places for some traditional Greek grub along the strip.
The secret beach

Voidokilia Beach scoops up the region's hidden treasure award. On these golden sands, you'll just need a drink and some baklava – honey-soaked dessert – to feel like a queen or king. For the best photos of the seascape, hike for 45 minutes up to Navarino Castle – it's best to go early to avoid the midday heat.

Bargain Buys

The best bargain eats around Messinia are tricky to squish into a suitcase – Kalamata's a half-hour drive away, for example, where you can get your fill of famous olives. Messinian pomegranate juice is sweet and refreshing, while the local chilli's definitely one for spice-lovers.
Mid-Range Buys

If strolling across the sand all day's what you have in mind, treat your feet to a pair of luxury leather sandals in Kalamata. There's also a farmers' market here, which is home to premium produce like artisanal jam, locally produced honey and Greek wine.
Designer Buys

From designer shades to fine silk scarves, the main streets of nearby Kalamata are the place to hit for all the upmarket buys. Check out the shops for handmade souvenirs like silk handkerchiefs.

Laid-back evenings

Whether you fancy a quick tipple with friends or a cosy romantic evening with your special someone, Messinia's got you nicely set up. It comes complete with wine bars, low-key rock-'n'-roll beer joints and a chilled-out atmosphere.
Lively evenings

Pump up the tempo with your crew by heading out to the bars in Kalamata or Kyparissia. Both towns have you sorted if you want to bust out your best dancefloor moves until the late hours.

Moussaka

A combination of minced lamb, rich vine tomatoes and bubbling melted cheese gives you one of Greece's finest local dishes – the famous moussaka. You'll find this mouthwatering main in most traditional restaurants around the villages and along the coast.
Classic pies

From delicious goats cheese parcels to sweet bites laced with nuts and syrup, Messinia's all about the pie. Milk pie's a staple for locals – and you can pick up one of the best at the Liopita shop in Kalamata's old town.
Sweet treats

Sweet delicacies are massive in Messinia. 'Diples' are the region's answer to churros – they're soaked in sticky honey and topped with walnuts. Look out for the ice-cream shops in Costa Navarino to bag a bag.
Sensational seafood

For seafood and a spectacular sunset, head to a traditional restaurant. You'll find menu items such as king prawn risottos and adventurous octopus stews alongside catch-of-the-day specials.
Burgers and baklavas

When you're hiking around Messinia, a hearty lunch is called for – and a burger-baklava lunch combo's just the ticket to taste bud heaven. Kalamata plates up patties along with honey-drizzled baklavas in its old town.

Messinia Holidays

Laidback luxury

Venetian jewel

Hiking paradise

Foneas beach

At a glance

Destinations in Messinia

Top Destinations

Top things to See and Do in Messinia

Watersports heaven

The big beach

The secret beach

Bargain Buys

Mid-Range Buys

Designer Buys

Laid-back evenings

Lively evenings

Moussaka

Classic pies

Sweet treats

Sensational seafood

Burgers and baklavas

SIMILAR DESTINATIONS

Our destinations in Messinia

Costa Navarino

Kalamata

Kalo Nero

Koroni

Petalidi

Popular holidays

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