Gialova, which is located in the western part of the region, is one of Messinia’s most well-known areas since it is situated in the historical location of the Gulf of Navarino, 7 km to the north of Pylos. This is a beautiful village located close to the famous Costa Navarino resort that has promoted the wider area into one of Greece’s most popular destination both for domestic and foreign visitors. Gialova is an ideal choice for family holidays given that it has shallow, crystal clear waters with a sandy shore and a plethora of choices for quality accommodation, food and entertainment. In fact, during the summer months, the beach road is “cut off” to traffic every evening at 20.00 and is converted into a pedestrian walkway that is inundated with crowds. What will impress you in the village is the restored 19th century building, which once housed the soap and oil factory, today houses restaurants, cafes, bars and a variety of stores.
Just next to Gialova you will find amazing sandy beaches that never get too crowded like the famous Voidokoilia, beach which has been listed among the 25 most beautiful beaches of Europe, Petrochori and Romanou beaches, all them surrounded with picturesque and pristine landscape.
Another spectacular attraction is the Gialova lagoon. This is one of the most significant wetlands in Europe and the southernmost major stopover for migratory birds from the Balkans. Also known as Divari, it has a high biodiversity presenting interesting fauna and flora species. It is home to more than 270 kinds of birds and to the African chameleon (this is the only place in Europe where this species can be found). The lagoon expands across an area of 600 hectares, while its depth does not exceed 4 m. The wetlands are protected as a Wildlife Sanctuary and an Area of Special Protection, and with the islet Sfaktiria, which is situated across from the wetlands, they have been declared a “Site of Community Interest” within the framework of the Natura 2000 Network.
The Old Castle of Navarino is close to the village on the top of a hill overlooking Gialova, the lagoon and Voidokoilia beach beach and also the Kalamari waterfall will give another taste of the region’s unique natural landscape.
Sources: www.greekguide.com, www.feelgreece.com
