If you are looking to take in a fascinating medieval monument as well as some incredible panoramic views over the coast, go for a short but very gratifying hike, and then spend some time on a truly stunning beach and you have found a vacation rental in Peloponnese, then you need to head to the lovely coastal town of Pylos. This is where you will find the ruins of a 13th century fortress perched on a cliff called Old Navarino Castle and the utterly beautiful natural surroundings that you can admire as they unfold below when you reach the ancient building.
Navarino Castle was built in the strategic location in which it stands today in the 13th century by the Franks. It was positioned for observation and defence and endured centuries of attacks and sieges before being taken by the Venetians in the 15th century and then passing back and forth from Venetian and Ottoman control. Once Pylos Castle was built nearby, Navarino lost its significance and, over time, fell to ruin. It is known by locals as “Paleokastro”, “the old fortress,” and is a romantic ruin.
Navarino Castle was built in the strategic location in which it stands today in the 13th century by the Franks. It was positioned for observation and defence and endured centuries of attacks and sieges before being taken by the Venetians in the 15th century and then passing back and forth from Venetian and Ottoman control. Once Pylos Castle was built nearby, Navarino lost its significance and, over time, fell to ruin. It is known by locals as “Paleokastro”, “the old fortress,” and is a romantic ruin.
While it is only a shadow of its former self, it remains a popular attraction as it boasts those incredible views that made it such an enviable site in the first place. From the top of the cliff on which it is perched and over the crumbling walls, you will find the most incredible views down over Voidokilia Beach, the lagoon, coastline, and nearby islands.
There are a few different options to approach. You can park in the Voidokilia Beach car park, walk the length of the bay, and head up to the top of the hill, which will only take around thirty minutes, although it is quite steep. If you’re looking for more of a chance to stretch your legs and a bit of a longer route, then you can start off at the far end of Chrissi Akti Beach (also called Golden Beach or Divari) and follow the signs for the castle and Voidokilia Beach.
The whole route will take about two hours and passes by both the beaches of Voidokoilia and Chrissi Akti, the lagoon of Gialova, and right up to the castle where you can take in the impressive views. If you’re going in summer, this two-hour journey can be made much tougher by the heat, so try and start early in the day and then return to the beach to cool down and for some well-earned relaxation after your exertion. Heading to the area as early as possible is also advisable due to the crowds that you will likely encounter otherwise. This stunning part of the coast is popular, as you can imagine, and the natural beauty becomes dotted by umbrellas, towels, families, and other groups, as it gets later into the day. Arrive before 9am and you’re likely to have the place either entirely, or almost entirely, to yourself!
Also, note that the castle is officially closed to the public and has not been maintained, as such, it is best to be cautious while exploring, especially around the exposed cisterns and any areas where the rocks are tumbling down. When heading back down, you should also be careful as the steep paths are more dangerous during the descent than during the ascent. Finally, don’t forget to spend some time admiring Gialova Lagoon and the amazing biodiversity and range of flora and fauna that it hosts. There is a good reason that it is protected as part of the Natura 2000 reserve!
So, if you find yourself in Peloponnese in Greece, be sure to come and admire this rather special place and the incredible variety of aesthetic appeal and fun that a relatively lesser-known gem can offer!
Photo credit: Πελασγος61 / CC BY-SA 4.0