Postcards from the Athens Riviera
Athens Riviera's lengthy coastline is a jumble of endless pleasures. With a lust for mythical coastlines, it should be of no surprise that we took a few days to explore this side of Athens. It’s a worthy stop for those considering island hopping from Athens. The coast is overwhelming with spectacular beaches, treasures of ancient Greece, vivid nightlife and astonishing Greek gastronomy.
We based our whole stay in Vouliagmeni. This famous area is known for its pine-studded coastline and two peninsulas, Kavouri and Lemos. The Kavouri side is more known for its dozens of restaurants and tavernas along the seaside. For a bit of Mykonos-style charisma, head to Krabo Beach for their superb BBQ dishes. The Agiostratitis brothers (behind the famous Margi Hotel) opened this venture in June 2018 with a beach area, lounge and restaurant space. For the Vouliagmeni area's best sweets, we suggest trying Bufala Gelato. There are over a dozen sweet treats, from creamy ice cream to crepes.
Additionally, the Vouliagmeni area is known for Lake Vouliagmeni, which we highly recommend visiting. Known for the water's healing properties, this is the only natural spa in the Athens Riviera. Get there early, as queues start to form first thing. You can find yourself there for a good half-day, simply relaxing on the lounger, ordering food, whilst intermittently dipping in the lake to bask in the natural healing properties.
If ancient Greece is on your agenda, visiting the Temple of Poseidon at Sounion is a must. This is one of the most significant sanctuaries of the ancient world and is sensational for enjoying sunsets. We also recommend visiting the Stavros Niarchos Foundation Cultural Centre. The cultural complex adjoins the National Library of Greece, the Greek National Opera, and an immense park where concerts and film screenings are organised.
For your fix of wild beaches, we recommend visiting; Katafygi, Agios Petros, and the secluded Legrena Beach, which is located just after Charakas. From the sand and its crystal clear waters, Legrena Beach will bring memories of a beach on Paros island. Visitors to this area may discover many caves and small coves around the beach. Let us know what you find!
Swim with the locals at Vouliagmeni's small beach coves
Vouliagmeni Lake is a friendly-family natural spa
At the top of the impressive cliff in Cape Sounion lies the famous Temple of Poseidon
Hike along the Athens Riviera to see amazing spots like these!
The locals love to stay by the coast until the sunsets
The Athens Riviera is famous for the world-class charter yachts and fishing boats you can rent
