Methoni: Discover the beauties of the south!

Discover the beauty and natural charm of the region, enjoy the hospitality of its residents, learn about its rich history, and admire its historical monuments. The Municipality of Methoni is located at the southwestern tip of the Peloponnese.

The endless and enchanting beaches of the south will thrill you!

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Getting to know Methoni

The seat of the eponymous Municipality, this beautiful town in Messenia, is located 61 km southwest of Kalamata and lies on the western coast of the prefecture, in the Ionian Sea.

The ancient city, once called "Ampeloessa Pidassos" as mentioned by Homer, was one of the seven cities Agamemnon offered to Achilles to appease his wrath. Throughout the centuries, it served as a crucial stop for every ship and traveller heading to the Eastern Mediterranean.

It was a city renowned for its significant port, holding commercial and strategic importance, especially during the Middle Ages.

Its imposing castle, one of the largest in the Mediterranean, occupies the entire area of the cape on the southwestern coast. Built upon ancient walls, it became the 'apple of discord' for every conqueror throughout the centuries, including Franks, Venetians, and Ottomans.

Their identity is preserved within the castle walls, which still stand imposingly today, in an environment charged with memories of the past. From within the Castle, the path leads to the islet of Bourtzi, upon which the impressive and imposing polygonal fortification tower of the Castle is built, a landmark of Methoni.

We recommend you walk inside the Castle, enter the tower at Bourtzi, and enjoy the views of Methoni and the Ionian Sea from there!

Today, the town of Methoni, built amphitheatrically, remains a traditional settlement. Two-storey houses, cobbled streets, narrow lanes, paved courtyards and stairs, and main roads planted with hibiscuses, are the elements that give the settlement the beauty that is often missing from modern cities.

Note that Methoni is one of the best fishing spots in the area, a fact you will confirm by dining at the local fish tavernas and trying the fresh fish.

 

Foinikounda

A picturesque fishing village built by the sea, in the heart of an enchanting bay, just 12 km from Methoni.

This is the "Foinikous Limin" as mentioned by Pausanias. In the area of Analipsi and at the Anemomylos location, traces of an ancient settlement are preserved.

Sandy beaches, indented coves, and the local terrain combine to create a magical landscape around the settlement, which makes it an excellent choice for carefree seaside holidays!

 

Top holiday choices

Varakes, Kainourgio Chorio, Foiniki, Evangelismos, Kamaria, Lachanada, are the other villages that make up the Municipality of Methoni.

They are built on the lush green hills of the area, and each of them has its own local character.

The Municipality of Methoni is one of the most significant tourist destinations in the Peloponnese. Its natural beauty, sandy beaches with crystal-clear waters, tourist infrastructure, archaeological sites, and the hospitality of its residents ensure visitors an unforgettable holiday.

The beaches of the Municipality have been awarded the European Blue Flags in recent years, offering relaxation, recreation, and entertainment to holidaymakers during the summer season.

We recommend you enjoy the idyllic beaches of the south!

Apart from the Castle in Methoni, other notable archaeological sites awaiting visitors include the Early Christian Cemetery of Agios Onoufrios, the Byzantine Church of Agios Vasileios, the ruins of the Church of Agios Leon, the Kapodistrian School, and two Venetian wells.

 

Useful links for your trip to Methoni

• Cheap hotels in the area
• Car rental without deposit or credit card to explore the area!