Messinia holidays

Whether framed by soft, white sands, or clinging to the edge of a towering cliff, there’s one thing Messinia’s beaches all have in common – dramatic scenery.

Six kilometres from Kalamata sits one of the region’s most popular swim spots – Almyros Beach. What makes this pebbled alcove such a local favourite is that it’s so well-equipped. There are showers, beach bars, deck chairs and a volleyball court nearby. In the summer months, it’s the place for watersports, whether you’re after water-skiing or windsurfing.

Few beaches form as pretty a picture as Voidokilia beach, which is almost a complete circle of soft sand. From the beach there are unobstructed views of nearby dunes, and the ruins of Nestor’s Palace. Those who don’t mind a hike can climb 45 minutes to the crumbling Navarino Castle.

A holiday to Kalamata wouldn’t be complete without shopping for gourmet goodies – it’s home to the famous olive, after all. That’s where food specialty shop Papadimitriou comes in. A haven for food-lovers, Papadimitriou specialises in Grecian delicacies, such as balsamic cream with local pomegranate juice, or chilli and paprika mustard.

For beautiful, custom-made sandals, head to Sandalia Sti Stoa in Kalamata’s historical centre. The shop has a large range of handmade leather sandals that offer comfort and style in equal measure.

Silk scarves are the trademark souvenir in Messinia – there’s even a Greek song about it. To pick up one of your very own, make a beeline for Kalamata’s Gkonos Silk Fabrics, which has been specialising in silk kerchiefs since 1895.

Kalamata’s Bocca is one of the city’s chicest venues. A young crowd flock to try out the inventive cocktail menu. The tables spill out onto the street, and fairylights and lanterns set the scene after dark.

In the summer months, Sunset Bar, in Kyparissia, is the place to be. It’s located right on the beach, so – as the names suggests – puts you in a front-row position to watch the sun set. Live music and a regular rotation of DJs keeps the party going through the night.

While in Messinia, make sure to stop in one of its many bakeries for diples, a local sweet of curled fried dough that’s drenched in honey and coated in walnuts.

Overlooking Navarino Bay, the Elia Restaurant not only serves up some of the best seafood in Messinia, but one of the best views, as well. It’s a firm favourite with locals and guidebooks, because of its simple yet tasty fare and affordable prices.

Kayak in Costa Navarino has quickly built a name for its all-natural, 100% Greek ice-creams and frozen yoghurts. There’s a range of unique flavours to choose from, though the Ferrero Rocher ice-cream is a crowd favourite.

No Messinia picnic is complete without a pie from Liopita in Kalamata. The little shop whips up both savoury and sweet pies, which are made fresh every day. For something a little different, try the galatopita, or milk pie.

The Burgery is a haute burger joint that has recently become a Kalamata institution. There are 15 different types to choose from, not to mention loads of quesadillas and club sandwiches.