Saronic islands will offer you the chance to meet all this rich history, nature, authenticity, romantic and cosmopolitan lifestyle of these amazing places.
Very popular destination with unique landscapes, wonderful bays with crystal waters, picturesque villages, valuable archaeological sites and museums. The relaxing atmosphere and different character of each island will make your cruise a wonderful experience.
Not far away from Athens these islands are an ideal destination for short trips or island hopping cruise.
Embark on a journey to the Saronic Islands, often dubbed the Argo-Saronic Islands, where verdant landscapes outshine even the famed Cyclades. Here, warmer sea temperatures beckon to swimmers, creating a paradise of lush vegetation and vibrant culture. These islands, adorned with bustling cities and easygoing atmospheres, weave a tale of historical splendor—both natural and man-made. Dive into the heart of captivating cultures, and for those who revel in the night, experience the lively heartbeat of Saronic nightlife.
Discover a Mediterranean tapestry of luxury yacht charters, where each island is a unique sanctuary boasting historical treasures, captivating architecture, and breathtaking panoramas. From the lively rhythm of Salamina (Salamis) to the timeless allure of Hydra and Spetses, the Saronic Islands promise an unforgettable blend of historical richness and scenic beauty.
The Saronic gulf lies to the south of the Greek capital Athens, providing a quick, yet satisfying getaway from the busy capital. It lies between the north eastern shoulder of the Peloponnese and the Attic Coast on which Athens and its main port Piraeus are located. The Saronic gulf islands include some beautiful small harbours and coves while its islands can be easily reached within a couple of hours making them ideal for day trips and overnight stops from Athens even in the winter.
Many mainland Greeks own vacation homes in the Saronic Gulf. Its islands are small havens in close proximity to Athens and steeped in ancient tradition. Visitors of the Saronic gulf will enjoy its natural beauty, many historical treasures, unique architecture and glamorous, yet romantic atmosphere, which is suitable for families and jet-setters alike.
Aegina’s main port is a cosmopolitan miniature town with nice little shops in narrow back streets, elegant cafes and seafood tavernas along the waterfront. One of the better preserved doric temples in Greece is the Temple of Aphaia above Agia Marina -a must-see for lovers of ancient Greece.
The views of the Saronic Gulf are stunning from up there. Don’t miss the sunset from Perdika, a charming fishing village to the south-west of the island with seafront tavernas and bars. Because of its proximity to Athens, Aegina does not appeal to mass tourism but retains its distinct Greek character, making it an ideal getaway even during the winter.
In the Southeast of the Peloponnese, on the coast of Arcadia and near the border with Lakonia is Leonidio, a town renowned for its natural beauty and its agricultural products. This is the land of the Tsakonians, an ancient tribe whose dialect has been compared to Doric. The characteristic architecture of Leonidio rests among steep mountains. East of the town, the valley extends to the coastline. Through it runs the river Dafnona. The proximity of the sea and the general geographic formation of the area contribute to the creation of the necessary conditions for the cultivation of exceptional early garden vegetables and citrus fruit used for immediate consumption of processed in cooking, juice making and baking.
This tiny island, just 5 minutes from Aegina and about an hour from Piraeus, offers pine-studded landscapes, beautiful bays and hidden coves, pure nature for trekking and biking, and picturesque seaside tavernas – perfect for an alternative holiday.
One of the most famous summer resorts of Peloponnisos. The picturesque natural port is amazing, but the so called from the locals “Nisi” with an incredible view to the Argolic Bay. “Nisi” is called a part of the area that is built on the side of the hill. The houses of that region have kept their traditional colour and on top there is the well-known medieval castle.
You are in the Peloponnese, in the concave of the ancient theatre of Epidaurus. On the upper tier of the ancient theatre you’ll gaze, entranced, at the horizon. Peace, tranquility. You’ll understand immediately why the ancients chose this place to construct the most famous Asclepion, or holistic healing centre. You’re in the most beautiful open-air, ancient theatre in the world.A Unesco World Heritage Site, it is still a therapy for the body and soul.
Ermioni offers ideal holidays combining the peaceful atmosphere of an island with a lively fun. The sea that embraces the two sides of the town formes ith the north the port wich is a traditional trading center and in the south Mandrakia. In traditional taverns and cafes with fish nets around ,the visitor can enjoy wine or ouzo with fresh seawater delicacies.
Hydra is a popular yachting destination, the absence of air pollution the natural beauties, tradition, amazing architecture and the hospitality of the inhabitants are some of the many reasons to visit. Hydra is an artist colony and a cosmopolitan Island which has attracted in the years many glamorous people like Leonard Cohen, who has a house and back in the 60’s he wrote the Days of Kindness in Hydra in 1985.
Kea, also known as Gia, it is the Island of the Cyclades complex that is closest to Attica. It has exceptional beaches and one of the best system of walking paths and trails, feature a number of cultural events in the summer and an outdoor movie theatre, with new first run movies.
Monemvasia means “one entrance” and in fact the only access to this castle is via a causeway. This uniquely preserved mediaeval town is carved into the majestic grey rock like a sculpture. Wander around the vaulted alleyways, churches and aristocratic mansions. Here time stands still, and you’ll become one with history.
A vibrant city-museum with listed architecture and majestic Venetian castles crowning the town. An aerial view of Nafplio: tile roofs, grey stone, grand homes and a blue-green sea. A stunning seaport town, consisting of fortresses, neoclassical buildings, old neighborhoods, wide sidewalks and large squares. It was the Venetians’ “Naples of the East” and the first capital of Greece.
Poros is a volcanic Island and means “passage” from the scenic sea passage of 200 m. that separates the harbor of Poros from Galatas in the Argolida Prefecture.Ιt is separated from the Peloponnese mainland by a 200 meter wide Chanel of water. The beaches of Poros are known for their clean water, the most famous beach is the Love Bay, a scenic landscape with crystal waters surrounded by lush greenery.
Villas, mansions and luxury resorts surrounded by olive groves – simple and seductive pleasures. Beautiful beaches backed by the sun-kissed Mediterranean landscape, attractive summer vilas and yacht marinas. The island of Spetses across the narrow straits, fresh fish and a lively nightlife are just a few highlights of Porto Heli.
Spetses ιs an attractive pine –clad Island secluded with hidden coves and sparkling clear water sea, beaches close to the waterfront with beautiful pine forest as backdrop. The island is particularly popular to the elite and nowadays there are plenty beautiful hotels and markets. Spetses is as close to the idyllic Hellenic picture as you can imagine.
With its more than 30 craters Methana is the north-westernmost of the arc of Aegean islands that still feature volcanic activity – the other islands being Milos, Santorini, and Nisyros. Just like them, Methana was born as an island a couple of million years ago but became connected to the mainland of the South-East Peloponnese by a narrow isthmus that rose up from the sea during one of the many eruptions and accompanying earthquakes. In 230 BCE a major eruption (near the present-day village of Kaimeni Chora) was recorded by several authors of the time as it was clearly seen from Athens, and as recently as 1700 CE a submarine crater erupted just off the coast of the peninsula.
Kiparissi is a quiet overnight stop if you want to get away from the crowds. It looks like an old pirate town, with crystal clear waters and a stunning beach. It is best to get your provisions before visiting Kiparissi, as there is a choice of mooring options that can involve a bit of a walk into the small village. In very calm conditions it is possible to free swing in the bay. It is also possible to moor side-to or stern-to on the north quay, which is no longer used by the hydrofoil.
It also has a taverna just up the hill that does very good food and has a shower as well. It also benefits from having a beautiful swimming area nearby – it is about a half hour walk to the village from here. Alternatively it is possible to moor stern or bows to on chapel cove, which has good protection from southerlies. If you moor here light an oil lamp, and the place will become even more stunning. There is also Kiparissi Village Quay, but it is only advisable to moor here in very calm conditions, as a big swell can come in.