Voidokilia beach, the palace of Nestor, the renewed town of Kalamata, the scenic Koroni, the castle of Methoni, the sandy beaches, the trails and activities on offer, and the welcoming people. A trip to Messenia shows the exciting changes of an area-case study for tourist development. I clearly remember the time when the area welcomed only a few tourists and was mainly targeted at Greek tourists.

Today, after a series of important investments, with the Costa Navarino hotel complex at their centre, the area has turned into an international destination, that is becoming increasingly popular. The Kalamata airport receives direct flights from many cities in central and north Europe, while luxury yachts moor at its marina. Messenia, Pylos and other locations in the area often feature in the international press, while the area is high on the list of jet setter destinations, a fact that results in further exposure through social media posts that receive thousands of likes and comments.

This is all the result of an idea by an inspired local, an idea that has been in the works for many decades and is now affecting the whole area. Captain Vasilis Konstantakopoulos had a vision: he wanted to see his homeland develop in terms of tourism by monetizing the local hospitality and the land’s natural beauty. And judging from the result, he has managed it, since new hotels keep opening. Well-known international hotel brands like Marriott with W, and Mandarin Oriental have now been added to the group that opened the Westin Resort and the Luxury Collection The Romanos years ago. At the same time, investments in golf courses are making this a top destination for a new audience, one that travels a lot and spends a lot of money travelling.

Below you’ll find some unique experiences that one can enjoy in Messenia that will turn your holidays into a one-of-a-kind experience.

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