Welcome to Athens and the beginning of your Saronic Voyage! After visiting the mighty Acropolis and soaking up the history and culture of the Greek capital set sail for some island-hopping. Drop anchor along the way to swim, snorkel and paddleboard in the open sea and float your troubles away in the dreamy, turquoise coves of each magical island.
First stop is Aegina, less than an hour from Athens. The main town is positioned along the port, distinguished for its sophisticated Neoclassical buildings and picturesque waterfront bustling with traditional cafes, taverns and shops. Ruins of the ancient temple of Aphaia can be found on the eastern side and inland is the ghost village of Paleohora, destroyed by the infamous pirate, Barbarossa. The lesser known Agistri is a tiny Greek gem, where you can explore the rugged coastline by scooter in under a day. Picturesque white churches dot the island and secluded rocky beaches can be accessed by steps or ladders that descend into crystal waters. To top it all off, the deserted southern pine forests and fruit groves can now be explored on horseback and Asponisos Horse Riding caters to all ages.
Uncover the excellently preserved Amphitheatre in tranquil Epidaurus, one of the most popular archaeological sites in Greece. During the summer months, the ancient theatre hosts the Greek Festival with dramatic performances, musical concerts and lectures. For a livelier experience, Poros, in the heart of the Saronic Gulf, is your island. Poros Town throngs with fun and vibrant clubs, shops, cafes, restaurants, and taverns, and the rest of the island can be explored on scooter. Make a stop at the wild lemon forest before heading to the many and diverse beautiful beaches. Romantic Love Bay is perfect for couples, Vayionia is calm and secluded, while Askeli abounds with sun lounges, umbrellas and bars. For a culinary experience, don’t miss the mouth-watering Greek Feta Saganiki in Greek Honey.
Hydra is the most distinctive of the Saronic Islands, owing to its no car policy and proliferation of donkeys as the primary means of transport. There is a unique atmosphere to the island, reflected in the winding streets, historical museums and churches and stone mansions. Perfect for families, this charming island’s quiet streets, shallow pebbled waters and simple, fresh food are a great holiday experience. Sweet, almondy Amygdalota is the local specialty and will delight children and adults alike.
Spetses is arguably the most popular of the Saronic Islands, being both wonderfully pretty and highly accessible. Bougainvillaea, jasmine and hibiscus drench white-walled buildings in colour and imposing mansions dominate the waterfront. With a rich and fierce history under the Ottoman Empire, the island fleet’s contribution to the War of Independence in 1821 helped liberate Greece. Indeed, every year in September the re-enactment of the Naval Battle of Spetses is a sight that attracts thousands. Now an elegant cosmopolitan town, Spetses’ food, entertainment and beaches compete with the best. Visit an outdoor cinema and partake of excellent fresh seafood dishes before relaxing by the water and snorkelling in the entrancing sea caves.
Alimos marina, Athens
08 June 2024
