Walk into the castles of Methoni and Koroni and get a feeling of what it was like to be around at the time when the great maritime state of Venice was at the peak of its powers, protecting the “Peaceful Republic of St. Mark” from marauding pirates.

ΚΟRONI

In Koroni, a collage ofcolorful houses with wooden balconies and ornate churchesamble down the hillside towards theharbourwith a definite island vibe. The assortment of boats and taverns at the water’s edge guarantee you a tasty meal of fresh fish.Above it all, the castle, with the monastery and the church of St, Mary, maintain their faithful vigil over thecape of Akrita.

METHONI

Methoni, built on the ruins of the ancient city, has been a much sought-after strategic stronghold for the last millennium. It is easy for you to see why its architecturally unique castle is a candidate to become a World Heritage Site in 2022.

Take a sailboat or canoe to the islands of Schiza, Agia Marina and the heart-shaped Sapienzaand dive down to the shipwrecks that lie beneath the waves.