We are renting a car and driving from Athens to Costa Navarino/Pylos. From Athens to Costa Navarino, what stops would be beneficial to make on the way there? Also, what are a couple day trips you would suggest us visiting when we are staying in the area? We are history and culture enthusiasts and are traveling with teenagers. Thank you!
Posted by
Brighton, UK
1388 posts
You're fairly close to Methoni and Koroni, both of which are nice little towns with Venetian forts. (Historically the two towns were known as 'the eyes of Venice'. ) Both are worth a visit.
It may be too long a drive - depends what you mean by day trip - but with teenagers I would consider the Caves of Diros.
http://www.peloponnese.eu/peloponnese-attractions/diros-cave
On the way down from Athens the obvious highlight is Corinth. You'll cross the canal but I would also detour to the Roman site and Acrocorinth, the Venetian fortress above it.
Mystra, the last capital of the Byzantine empire, is a beautiful site but a bit off your route.
Have a great trip.
Alan
Posted by
Philadelphia, PA, USA
3320 posts
I assume, (since you are history and culture enthusiasts) that you have consulted your local library for serious resources like The Blue Guide to Greece and Cadogan's Guide to Pelopponese and Athens ... I have scores of internet links on historical, archeological sites in the Peloponnese alone, but print resources still are key. Rough Guide to Greece also quite detailed. If you've sampled any of these, Nestor's Palace is a must-stop for you, right on the way. Also, check out the TWO famous naval battles that took place in Navarino Bay: (1) ancient Greece, Athens outstrategized Sparta and (2) Greek War of Independence, when European Biggies finally interfered & walloped the Ottoman Turk/Egyptian fleet .. setting stage for Independence negotiations.
Posted by
Nanaimo, BC, Canada
1376 posts
In the area of Pylos there are 4 Venetian era castles. Two at or near Pylos and one each at Methoni and Koroni. The Koroni castle still has people living in it as they have for centuries.
Peloponnese Battle Castles https://www.flickr.com/photos/stanbr54/sets/72157645468134284/