Modern Pylos is located in the west end of Messenia, opposite a long island called Sphacteria, and the protected coast of the natural harbor of Navarino Bay. This beautiful town is warmed up by the inexhaustible Greek sun, even during the winter time.
Pylos is a prosperous region bearing a long history and remarkable cultural heritage. Having even been quoted in the Homeric poems, Pylos has all the credentials to be characterized as a “Eutopia” (εὖ- τόπος > good place). The warm Mediterranean sun and clear waters, the long history and stunning habitat make Pylos the centre of the northwest part of Messenia! Given the natural assets of this land, what more could anyone possibly ask for? The entire site of Navarino, from Egaleo Mountain, Korifasio and St. Nicholas to Sphacteria, is shielded by the abundance of light, the memories of the past, the olive trees and their the fruits along with the natural springs.
Pylos lies in the southern entrance of Navarino and spreads over St. Nicholas in the little “valley” between the hills, with Niokastro towering over it. It is picturesque and beautiful in all respects. If someone approaches Pylos from the northwest, it is worth spending some time to observe the scenery. You can see the entire marina where plentiful trawlers and tourist yachts have been stranded. The red-bricked houses and the castle, along with the village of Gialova with Divari Beach, Voidokilia, the pathway of Sykia and Palaiokastro on the opposite side of Pylos.
Pylos is also attractive at night, discretely lightened by the lights of the seaside bars and restaurants, and the piles. Let your eyes travel to the colourful night scenery that this part of the Natura 2000 protected area offers. “Fortunately!” is a word that subconsciously crossed our mind! In the beginning of the new millennium people finally recognized the importance of their heritage… even the rough way.
Nowadays, Pylos is stepping on a thin line between the new tendency of the tourist industry, which is characterized by massive investments, and the preservation and safeguarding of the historical, cultural and natural heritage of the region, and the fact that none of the latter should ever be “sold out”. The municipality Pylos-Nestoras, the heart of western Messenia, manages to keep the balance in these tough times, allowing the region to progress and keep developing without losing its regional, historic and cultural identity.