Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
( 27240 51297;
roomslykourgos@yahoo.gr
;
d/tr €45/60)
If you are taken by the superb vis-
tas and want to stay, try this spacious and comfortable modern option, where the front
rooms afford glimpses of the ruins. The helpful owner, Victoria, speaks some English.
Taverna Ithomi
TAVERNA $
( 27240 51298;
www.ithomi.gr
;
mains €6-12; lunch & dinner daily Feb-Nov, Sat & Sun only Dec
& Jan)
Besides a couple of local
kafeneia
(coffee houses), this is the only eatery in town
and offers traditional cuisine. Friendly owner Nikos is the local 'man in the know'.
Getting There & Away
There are two buses between Ancient Messini/Mavromati and Kalamata (€3, one hour,
Monday, Wednesday and Friday only), one in the early morning, the other in the after-
noon, to a changing schedule. Check at the Taverna Ithomi.
TOP OF CHAPTER
KoroniΚορώνη
POP 1700
Koroni (ko-
ro
-nih) is a lovely Venetian port town on Messinia Bay, 43km southwest of
Kalamata. Medieval mansions and churches line the town's quaint, narrow and winding
streets. These lead to a promontory, on which perches an extensive castle and monastery.
Sights & Activities
Castle
CASTLE
Much of the old castle is occupied by the
Timios Prodromos Convent
. If open, you can
enter (a strict dress code applies). Note the castle's impressive Gothic entrance. The
small promontory beyond the castle is a tranquil place for a stroll, with lovely views over
the Messinian Gulf to the Taÿgetos Mountains.
Zaga Beach
BEACH
Koroni's main attraction is Zaga Beach, a long sweep of golden sand just south of the
town. It takes about 20 minutes to walk to here - you can cut through the castle or go via
the road. Ask locals for directions.
Koroni also sees loggerhead turtles, which lay their eggs near Zaga.
