The minute we saw a YouTube video of the Old Navarino Fortress near Pylos, Greece, we knew we were going to be trekking up to it. This once majestic castle is now in ruins but still a marvel to see, and the views from the top are amazing. Here is a link to Greek Explored YouTube video. We watched a lot of Greek Explored videos while preparing for our trip to the Peloponnese. Very informative!
Location
Surprisingly, the trailhead to Old Navarino Fortress was one of the easier to find out of the way places we have been to in Greece. We followed Google and it took us to the right spot first time! Located just to the north of Pylos it was about a 25 minute drive. We parked on the beach, there were a couple of paths so we took the one that turned left and up.
History of the Old Navarino Fortress
The Old Navarino Fortress was built in the 13th century on the Bay of Navarino near Pylos Greece upon an ancient Athenian fort. There is some evidence of Mycenean era culture as well. This rocky steep peninsula has been a perfect spot for strategic defense throughout history.
Ancient Years
In 425 BC, during the Peloponnesian War, General Demosthenes, an Athens general, built the ancient fort on this rocky peninsula by strengthening the peninsula’s own natural defenses with additional stone walls. Having this defensive upper hand was great strategy and a safe place for the Athenians as they raided Spartan land. Of course the Spartans did not like this and retaliated by attacking Pylos both by land and sea. Unfortunately for the Spartans this did not go well, their losses were many and the Spartans surrendered.
As you can see by the photo below, this landscape would be great strategy against enemies.
Medieval Era
Old Navarino Fortress is one of two fortresses protecting Pylos Bay in Greece. The other fortress, built by the Ottomans in 1572, is the New Navarino Fortress. The Old Navarino Fortress was constructed by Nicholas II of Saint-Omer for his nephew, Nicholas III. It’s unclear if Nicholas III inherited it, but if he did, he held it until his death in 1317. With no heirs, the castle and other Messenian lands were passed to the princely domain.
Photos of the New Fortress in Pylos:
Ottoman and Venetian Rule
The Bay of Navarino did not fall to the Ottomans during the first Ottoman war but did fall in 1501 during the second. After the New Navarino Fortress was built by the Ottomans in Pylos, the Old Fortress became less important and by the 16th century was merely just a fortress in Greece by name only. When the Venetians took control in the 17th century, they considered restoring the Old Navarino Fortress, despite its decline, because it appeared to be a better defensive position. This never happened as the Ottomans conquered the area again.
Hiking Up to the Fortress
After enjoying a bit of lunch at our hotel in Pylos, we were both very excited to be hiking to the Old Navarino Castle and it is one of my favorite adventures during this trip to Greece. Due too the heat, we waited until evening to make the trek up. Although hot, it was still a pleasant hike. I would not consider the hike up itself as difficult, other than it is uphill. The path is rocky and definitely not maintained but that being said it was obvious and easy to follow. Good shoes are a must, especially when you reach the fortress. Also bring your own water and snacks.
We started at the beach and walked along the sea as we made our way up along the path, which looks like it may be used as a road part of the way up and than narrows to a foot path. The sky looked a bit moody as we started but appeared to be clearing further ahead.
We followed along the footpath through brush and rocks. It was very exciting to see the fortress getting closer. As we hiked closer, the sky started to clear and the sun came out which really showcased this fortress. It took us about a half hour to hike from the beach to the entrance.
In the Fortress
I mentioned hiking up to the fortress was not difficult, that being said, walking inside the fortress itself presented more of a challenge. There was a lot of vegetation overgrowth with faint or vague paths inside. The walls have tumbled and rocks are scattered around, and without carefull footing and balance there are many potential hazards here. Be very careful. I know more than once, Steve helped me over a rock or two! In addition, there were very few other people here. I think we saw a total of 3 in the fortress and half a dozen on the way down.
It appears in the not so distant past this site must have had some maintenance as signs had been erected but are too faded to read.
The Fortress Entrance
The entrance to the Old Fortress of Navarino must have been quite grand in its day. I could picture gallant Knights or soldiers riding on horses up through the entrance. There must have been a large wooden secured door protecting the entryway as evidenced by pieces of wood we saw in the doorways wall. My guess was there was possibly a vaulted walkway when you first entered the fortress as part of the ceiling still remained just inside the entrance.
Fortress Wall Walk
The castle walls that remained extended around the perimeter connecting the towers. We climbed the medieval stairs and walked atop the wall walk to the first tower.
Fortress Interior
As I mentioned earlier, the interior of the castle was overgrown. We followed a faint path past crumbling walls, an old bridge, towers, and doors while wondering how life was in this medieval fortress.
Ancient Column ?
Steve saw a column outside of the wall and had to investigate. We wonder if it was from the ancient site or what its purpose could have been. I did a lot of research while writing this post and could not find any information about this. If anyone knows, I would love to hear the history of this lone broken column.
Voidokilia Beach
By far the most beautiful site was the view of Voidokilia Beach from atop this peninsula. Plus a beautiful rainbow added to our excitement.
Outer Walls
We went back just about the same way we came up but we passed by the outer walls to the south for just a bit different view.
View From the Shore
When we just about reached the end of our hike, Steve ventured out among the white rocks which lined the shore to get another view of the Fortress. I was ventured out at that point and relaxed on what may have been an added bench or perhaps something related to the fortress, regardless, it was a perfect place to sit and wait!
Where We Ate
We returned back to our hotel just in time for the tail end of the sunset.
After cleaning up we walked to the main area of town and find a place for dinner. Every place was busy and we had to wait a bit so we were getting pretty hungry! We enjoyed a meal at O Aeotos. The staff was friendly but unfortunately some of the dishes were already sold out as it was getting a bit late for dinner, even by Greek standards. We savored delicious bread, tzatziki sauce, zucchini fritters and fries. All were fantastic!
Where We Stayed
We stayed at Karalis Beach Hotel. This Boutique style hotel was a great spot to stay for the night. We enjoyed a nice view of the Bay and the town. They had various rooms. We stayed in the standard room and although it was not a large room, it was clean, comfortable, had a balcony, and we had restful night.
When we arrived in the afternoon we ate at the beach bar and enjoyed a wonderful Greek Salad with a cheese and fruit platter. It was really tasty and perfect for a hot day’s lunch.
In the morning we enjoyed a buffet breakfast on the back porch. It was a good breakfast. We agree we will stay here again as we are planning on returning to the Peloponnese in 2026!
Conclusion
Hiking to the Old Navarino Fortress in Pylos was one of many fun adventures we enjoyed in Greece. For me, this was one of my favorite adventures during this years Greece trip. There is so much to see in the Peloponnese and one day was not near enough for this area. We are looking forward to returning here and plan on visiting the New Navarino Fortress, Voidokilia Beach, and also the nearby town of Methane when we return.
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Click on the links below to follow my 2024 Greek Travels and also my Past Greek Travels
Aria Estate Suites and Spa August 2024
Kardamyli Old Town-August 2024
The Old Sparta to Kalamata Road, August 2024
o the Top of Monemvaisa-August 2024
Exploring Ancient Sparta-August 2024
Anthemion Suites and Villas, Greece-August 2024
A Bit of Charm in Nafplio, Greece-August 2024
Acronauplia Fortress-August 2024
Argos Theatre and Agora-August 2024
Exploring the Larissa Castle of Argos,Greece-August 2024
Snorkeling the Sunken City of Epidaurus. August 2024
Ancient Epidaurus: Birthplace of Modern Medicne August 2024
Mycenaean Bridge and Acropolis of Kazarma-August 2024
Ancient Nemea Greece-August 2026
Books About the Peloponnese
I love to read and I read many books about Greece. The following helped spike my interest in the Peloponnese area of Greece for many different reasons.
- Greek Letters (Greek Quartet Series) by Suzi Stembridge This captivating series follows an Englishman and his family and their connection to Greece. The series starts in 1827 as the Englishman, on his journey to Greece, finds himself in the middle of Greece fighting for its freedom. The 4 volumes follow the rich history of Greece as it overcomes the Ottoman rule and beyond. I really learned a lot about this time period of Greek history from reading these books. I also found the history of this era of the Peloponnese to be fascinating.
- A Boy Growing Up Under the Nazi Boot and the Greek Civil War by George C. Kradikas. This book is a true account of the early years of Mr Kakridas as his family endures hardships beyond compare while growing up near Sparta during occupation years. A poignant story told with the emotion and memories as only someone living through this period can retell.
- Mycenae from Myth to History This extraordinary book not only goes in-depth to the history and archeological study of ancient Mycenae, it also features photography by Robert McCabe. Actually that is why I purchased this book. Robert McCabe’s black and white photographs of the Greece we do not see are beautiful.
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Another wonderful post Lori. The skies in Greece seem beyond compare and I love the doorman. Happy Saturday. Allan
Thank you! He was such a good boy!! Did not enter the hotel, just sat right outside the door!
Gorgeous! The hike to the ruins doesn’t look easy, but the site and views at the top make it all the more worthwhile– even better you saw a rainbow! The Greek food you had at the end of the hike must’ve been very rewarding and well-deserved. Thanks for sharing another part of Greece with us 🙂
The rainbow was such a rewarding thing to view! When we started the hike, we thought we were going to get rained on. Then to find the rainbow instead of the rain was just a big bonus!
Another nice look at those warm and inviting ailes.
Wish I was there now!!
What incredible views you had on your hike!
I did enjoy the views!
Looks just wonderful 😊
It was a fun trek!
What an amazing adventure! Your post brings the Old Navarino Fortress to life with its rich history, stunning views, and practical tips. The hike, the rainbow over Voidokilia Beach, and the local food all sound unforgettable. Can’t wait to read about your return trip in 2026!
Thank you! It was a great adventure! The rainbow really added to the vibe!!
You’re so welcome! That rainbow felt like nature’s own reward at the end of the hike—pure magic! I’m already looking forward to your 2026 return post—something tells me it’s going to be just as epic (if not more)!
We hope so! We are already in the planning stages for 2026 but we have to get through this year’s Greece trip first! thisbyear, we are planning to visit Mykonos, not for the party life, but so we can easily get to the ancient religious sites on Delos Island, then Kougonisia Island for its beautiful rock formations and beaches, Folegandros Island for its peace and authenticity, Milos Island for its beaches, and last but not least back to Crete for ancient sites, kikes and adventures!
I do love all the rewards nature shows us after a good hike! Whether it is a rainbow, beautiful flowers or even a butterfly!
Wow, your 2026 trip sounds like it’s going to be incredible! The mix of ancient sites, stunning islands, and peaceful escapes will definitely make for an unforgettable experience. I love how you’re seeking out both beauty and history—Delos and those islands sound like the perfect blend of adventure and serenity. Can’t wait to hear all about it! And yes, nature’s little rewards after a hike—rainbows, flowers, butterflies—always make the journey even more special. Happy travels on this year’s Greece trip, and here’s to many more amazing hikes ahead!
Thank you! Happy travels to you as well!
The ruins are impressive. Sounds like an adventurous hike to get up to the fortress! Makes you wonder what this place once looked like in its former glory.
It sure does make you wonder what it was like in its glory days!