After a couple of days in town, we motored up to the north end of the bay where there was nothing more than sandy beach, clear water, and a chance to relax. Despite the heat, we were committed to the hike/climb up to Nestor’s Cave and the PalioKastro (old castle).
Nestor’s Cave is a real cave, but is rooted in mythology. It is here that Hermes, as a baby, stole 50 cattle from Apollo and hid them in this cave. We hiked along the back side of the marsh in the shade, then climbed the dunes until we made it to the cave. The cave is absolutely huge, and could easily fit hundreds of cattle, though it’s location makes it far more likely for keeping goats.
From the cave, it’s a short climb (courtesy of steel cables driven into the rocks) up to the old castle. Over 200 meters up from the shore, the castle was built by the Franks in the 13th century, and of course later used by the Venetians and the Turks.
The castle was eventually abandoned, with the building of the new castle at the southern end of the bay, and is in absolute ruin. However, climbing over the ramparts and exploring the ruins is a fabulous way to spend the day, and the views of the sea, as well as Voidokilia Beach are absolutely breathtaking.
Not a bad place to enjoy a beer and a sunset either.
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