Messenia is the reason people come back for their holidays here. Within an hour’s drive from Akrogiali Avias you can swim in emerald mountain lakes, stand in front of one of the most beautiful beaches in Europe and climb to a Venetian fortress above the Navarineakos Gulf.
This guide covers the top 5 day trips that you can do while staying at Moireas Apartments with practical tips and suggested programs.
Polylimnio
Distance from Akrogiali Avias: ~35 km. | ~60 minutes Suitable for: Families, hikers, nature lovers
Polylimnio is the excursion you don’t expect. Twenty-four emerald lakes, connected by small waterfalls, hidden in a pine forest in the countryside. The waters are clear and cool even in August — many swim in the larger lakes.
The main route takes 2–3 hours round trip (about 5–6 km total) and passes by huge plane trees, bridges and natural pools. There is shade all along the way — a rarity for a Greek summer.
Practical tips:
- Start early (before 10:00) to avoid the heat
- Bring sneakers — the trail has rocks and roots
- Changes if you plan to swim
- Impossible to do without a car
Voidokilia — The O-Shaped Beach
Distance from Akrogiali Avias: ~70 km | ~1.30 hours Suitable for: Photography, swimming, history, families
Voidokilia is one of the few beaches that lives up to its reputation. The perfect semicircular shape (letter O), the golden sand, the shallow blue waters and the dunes around it create a landscape that you have never seen before in Greece.
The beach is unorganized — no sunbeds, no bars. This is its biggest advantage. Bring an umbrella, water, a sandwich and let yourself go.
Bonus: Right next to it is the Romanou Lagoon — a rare wetland with flamingos and other migratory birds. Also, the hill above the beach has the Nestor’s Cave (mythological site) — it is worth the climb for the amazing view.
Tip: Combine the visit with Pylos for lunch at the port.
Pylos — History, Bay and Niokastro
Distance from Akrogiali Avias: ~70 km | ~1.30 hours Suitable for: History, walking, eating at the port, families
Pylos is one of the most pleasant towns in the Peloponnese. Built around one of the best protected natural bays of Messinia, it is a place of historic naval battle and incredible natural beauty.
What to see in Pylos:
- Niokastro: The impressive 16th century Venetian fortress, in excellent condition, with panoramic views of the bay.
- Pylos Port: The main commercial port with cafes, fish taverns and views of the islet of Sfaktiria.
- Islands of the Gulf: With a rented boat or a boat excursion you can visit Sfaktiria and the islet of Chelonaki.
Tip: Lunch at the port of Pylos and return via Methoni to see its Venetian castle
Kardamyli — The Stately Village of Messinian Mani
Distance from Akrogiali Avias: ~25 km. | ~40 minutes Suitable for: Architecture, walking, eating, swimming
Kardamyli is the definition of a “stately village”. Stone towers, cobblestone alleys, artists and writers who chose to live here (Patrick Lee Fermor wrote some of the greatest travel books of the 20th century here). Old Kardamyli is a must-see.
Trails to the gorges of Vyros begin within the city — suitable for relatively experienced hikers.
Ancient Messina — The Undiscovered Treasure
Distance from Akrogiali Avias: ~50 km | ~1 hour Suitable for: History, archaeology, photography
The archaeological site of Ancient Messina remains one of the most underrated in Greece, but in size and state of preservation that leaves every visitor speechless. Stadium, theater, baths, market, residences — almost intact.
The Ideal Base for Excursions
Whatever you plan, the location of Moireas Apartments in Akrogiali Avias is on the main road that connects Kalamata with Messinian Mani. This means that every morning you leave your apartment — after taking a bath 5 meters from the sea — and in 1 to 1.5 hours you are at one of the above destinations.
See a detailed 3-day itinerary: What to Do in Kalamata in 3 Days
The free private parking makes every excursion easier — you don’t have to think about where to leave the car when you return.
Are you looking for an apartment near Kalamata for your excursions in Messinia? Moireas Apartments are ideally located — 5 meters from the sea and 15 minutes from Kalamata.
Contact us for availability.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best day trip from Kalamata?
If you only have one day, the combination Polylimnio + Pylos + Voidokilia covers three completely different experiences (mountainous nature, history, beach) in one circular itinerary.
How far is Polylimnio from Kalamata?
Polylimnio is about 1 hour from Akrogiali Avias.
Do you need a car for excursions from Kalamata?
Yes, a car is necessary for all excursions in Messinia. Moireas Apartments provides free private parking for your entire stay.
When should I visit Polylimnio?
June and September are the ideal months — the waters are full (less so in August due to the heat) and the route is not too hot. If you go in the summer, start early in the morning.
Can I see Pylos and Voidokilia in the same day?
Absolutely. The two places are only 15 minutes apart. Start from Voidokilia (morning, fewer people), then lunch in Pylos and a visit to Niokastro at noon.