Arakynthos mountain is famous for  its dense vegetation and oak – chestnut forest. The south side of the mountain is an exception, as it has view to Etoliko lagoon. The rocks of the mountain are steep and sharp-edged. What impresses most however, is the numerous steep caves, which have not yet been investigated.

 One of them is Agios Nikolaos o Spilaiotis or Kremastos. Agios Nikolaos Cave is located in a box canyon of West Arakynthos, near Ellinika village. One can reach it under great difficulty, since he must first walk northeast of Kefalovryso for about half an hour and then climb fifty meters. The Cave, has been an important ascetic center of the area during the Middle Ages, some of the iconographies are remarkable, and was founded by Nikandros.

   A few kilometers outside of Messolongi, on the road to Etoliko one can see the church of Panagia of Finikia. The chapel, built in 1804, is an island within the lagoon waters.

   The church stands proudly among the salt mines (Alykes) and perfectly integrates with the landscape, transforming it beyond a pilgrimage destination to a unique attraction that charms every visitor with its picturesque character.

   Finikia was also the favorite destination of Lord Byron, he went there to relax, during his stay at Messolonghi.

   The historic monastery of Agios Simeon, “t’ Ai-Simioy" as the locals call it, is located at the foot of Arakynthos, approximately 8 km east of the town of Messolonghi. The
monastery was established in 1740 during the Ottoman rule, by the Abbot Archimandrite Tarasios Tsoumaris and is of great historical importance given that it served as the meeting point for those who fought during the heroic Sortie of Messolonghi in April 10th, 1826. In memory of the fallen fighters a large white cross was erected near the monastery.

   The Marina is located
in the West part of the sheltered Messolonghi port.
The area is protected from all sides by land and shallow waters.
This in combination with heavy breakwater pontoons makes the Marina a very safe mooring place.

 The Marina will offer everything yachtsmen expect from a modern Marina for a pleasant, comfortable and safe stay.Wide and very stable concrete floating pontoons give easy access to and from the boats. All pontoons are equipped with electricity and water pillars.

It has an ideal distance from the city center and has nearly 380 mooring places, while hosting at the same several boats ashore. In the Marina the guests ensure relaxation in a natural environment and stunning views of the lagoon. In the area of the marina there is a dining room, which offers coffee and food, there along with three buildings with toilets and showers, a laundry room with three washing machines and a dryer as well as a super market with a bakery.

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  Since early 18th century, Messolonghi has been a major maritime power, playing a key role in the maritime transportation to and from Italy and Malta, and thus developed a very strong fleet. 

   Despite the fact that today the harbor of Messolonghi does not have the same dynamic, nevertheless it is an ideal spot to take a walk or make a stop for lunch or coffee.

     You may not run into large ships or fancy, expensive vessels, but this small port hosts several boats and sailboats. Within the past few years, many locals have opened catering businesses, which attract especially during the summer season both locals and tourists, who want to taste some delicious fresh sea food accompanied with a great lagoon view!

   Of course, the sunset view from there is simply breathtaking. One can truly experience a moment of real magic when seeing the calm waters of the lagoon bathed in the beautiful sunset colors.

   Messolonghi-Etoliko lagoon is the largest, 22,000 acres, throughout Greece. It is formed between the mouth of Acheloos and Evinos rivers. In its biggest part, the water level does not exceed the one meter high, while in some points the water could even reach up to five or six meters high.

    Just a few minutes away
from the marina of Messolonghi, you will come to find the best kept secret of Europe: the natural mud spa of Agia Triada (the Holy Three - Entities) near the historic islet of Kleisova.

  Agia Triada is a dirt path in the lagoon of Messolonghi (about 2 km. southeast of the center) that joins with a long road which leads to Tourlida islet and the Gulf of Patras. People of all ages with health problems, such as rheumatism, prefer the beneficial properties offered by the divine nature.

    Dioni beach is located
on the north side of Acheloos river. To get there, you must pass through the valley of Katohi and from Oiniades, covering a distance of about 16 km.  

    The beach is sandy and shallow and is undoubtedly an ideal destination to enjoy swimming but the beach is mostly known for the two best natural slopes in Europe, offered for kite and windsurfing.

   If you are fond of sports and the water element and want to feel the adrenaline move under your skin, Mikri Vigla beach is a must-visit. There, thanks to the ideal weather conditions you can try several water sports, especially windsurfing!So, if you happen to be a water lover you should definitely seize this opportunity.

     Tourlida is an islet, located about 5 km south of Messolonghi and is connected to the town with a narrow road. The road, which starts from the harbor and crosses the lagoon, will take you on a magical journey. You can either enjoy your ride by car, bicycle or even on foot. The beach was named after a specific kind of sea birds that used to live there, the Tourlides.

   When coming to Tourlida, you can swim in the beautiful beach, where the open sea meets the lagoon waters, while admiring the picturesque pelades. You will also have the chance to taste local delicacies in the local restaurants and taverns. Finally, in Tourlida islet you will get to see one of the two salt mines of Messolonghi, the so- called "Black Salt Lake."

   Louros is one of the best beaches of Etoloakarnania prefecture. It is located 17 km southwest of Neochori and is half an hour away from Messolonghi.

   It is a vast sandy beach, about 7 km long, and constitutes a protected wetland, according to the RAMSAR Convention since 1974.

   The trip to Louros Beach is pretty fascinating. There, one can encounter cows and pigs or even wild horses that proudly enjoy their walk in the nature. Louros is definitely a landscape of wild natural beauty, or one could as well describe it as a unique natural zoo.