Palaiokastro, also known as the Old Castle of Navarino, stands on a rocky hill overlooking Voidokilia Beach, the Gialova Lagoon and the Ionian Sea. Although the castle is now largely in ruins, its impressive walls, fascinating history and spectacular views make it one of the most rewarding places to visit in the Pylos area.
The walk to the castle is relatively short and offers a wonderful opportunity to combine a little hiking with history and some of the most beautiful coastal scenery in Messinia.
How to Get There
Driving from Marathopoli towards Gialova, turn right at the sign for Chrysi Akti (Divari Beach).
Continue past Erodios Camping. Where the paved road ends, follow the unpaved road, which is generally passable by ordinary cars, depending on its condition. At the end of the road, there is a small clearing with space for a few vehicles.
This is where the footpath to Palaiokastro begins.
The trail is relatively easy to follow and takes approximately 20 minutes to reach the castle. It climbs gradually through low Mediterranean vegetation, with views of the surrounding coastline along the way.
Avoid walking during the hottest hours of summer. Early morning or late afternoon is preferable, while autumn is an especially pleasant time to visit. Wear suitable walking shoes, carry water and watch your footing, particularly where vegetation is dense.
A Brief History of Palaiokastro
Palaiokastro was built in the late 13th century, during the period of Frankish rule in the Peloponnese. Its strategic position above the northern entrance to Navarino Bay allowed it to control maritime traffic along this important stretch of coastline.
Over the centuries, the castle passed through different hands, including Venetian and Ottoman rulers, reflecting the turbulent history of the region.
Today, much of the fortress lies in ruins, but sections of its imposing defensive walls and towers remain standing. The site retains a distinctive atmosphere, surrounded by wild vegetation and overlooking the sea.
Views Worth the Climb
The main reward for reaching Palaiokastro is undoubtedly the view — one of the most spectacular in southwestern Messinia.
To enjoy the famous panorama of Voidokilia Beach, you need to walk through the interior of the castle towards the opposite side, where the walls overlook the beach and the Gialova Lagoon. The path through the castle grounds is not always clearly visible and can become overgrown, so some care is needed, especially near the ruined walls and steep edges.
From this vantage point, the perfectly curved sandy beach of Voidokilia stretches below, with its turquoise waters contrasting beautifully with the darker waters of the lagoon behind it. Looking in the other direction, you can admire the Ionian Sea, the island of Sfaktiria and the entrance to Navarino Bay.
The landscape is truly remarkable, and the photographs speak for themselves.
Towards Nestor’s Cave and Voidokilia Beach
After exploring the castle, you have two options for your return.
The easiest is to follow the same trail back to the parking area.
Alternatively, you can descend towards Nestor’s Cave and continue down to Voidokilia Beach, where you can enjoy a swim in the clear waters.
This second route is more demanding. The path has a steep downhill gradient, with rocky and sometimes loose ground, and requires particular care. It is best suited to visitors who are comfortable walking on uneven terrain and have appropriate footwear.
If you choose this option, you can return to your original starting point from Voidokilia Beach by following a path along the foot of the hill, beside the Gialova Lagoon. This allows you to complete a circular hiking route rather than retracing your steps.
Whether you visit Palaiokastro for its history, its scenery or simply the pleasure of a short hike, it is an experience well worth including in your exploration of Messinia.