Unspoiled tranquillity on the Greek island of Agistri
Jul 7, 2006, 21:57
Just 20 miles south of Athens lies the fascinating and beautiful island of Agistri. One of the smaller and least developed of the Greek Islands at just eight square miles, it is also one of the more alluring and, with its proximity to the mainland, is an ideal getaway location.
With its intimate beaches, picturesque taverns and dense pine-tree forests, Agistri, one of the Saronic Islands, is the perfect place to rest and recuperate. Although the island itself holds little archaeological appeal, it is ideally located for day trips to a number of ancient sites, including Corinth, Delphi, Mycenae, Epidavros and, of course, the Acropolis.
The island is characterised by its dense, scented pine forests, which start on the edge of the island's beaches and stretch across much of the interior. The trees are particularly vibrant in the spring, when they appear vividly green and provide a canopy for hours of woodland
wandering or cycling.
The tourist season, of course, tends to begin slightly later in the year, taking off in May, building up to a bustling peak in August and drawing to a close in October. Many make the short trip from Athens to enjoy the seaside and escape the city. The island's large sandy beaches,
smaller pebbled coves and sparkling clear waters are the key attraction and the numerous tavernas and relaxed bars offer a haven for weary workers.
Perhaps surprisingly for an island situated so close to Athens, the waters around Agistri are incredibly clear. There can be few waters nicer to swim in than the island's crystal-clear sea and the beach at the village of Skala is particularly popular. Several of the island's beaches are incredibly peaceful, including Aponissos and Mariza.
In fact, unlike many of the Greek Islands, you won't have to travel far to find a tranquil spot on Agistri. The island has less than 1,000 permanent inhabitants and, even in the peak tourist season, there are rarely more than 3,000 people on the island at any one time. Rather than
coming for a non-stop party, holiday-makers generally come to Agistri to benefit from its warmth and friendliness, something that can be lacking in larger, more impersonal resorts.
The main essentials can be picked up in the island's two main villages, Milos and Skala. Milos is relatively quiet but has plenty of restaurants, all offering typical Greek cuisine, as well as grocery stores and a bakery to meet self-catering needs. Skala, meanwhile, is slightly more happening. A mile from Milos, the village is more geared towards young people and has a number of shops, restaurants and bars to provide ntertainment. A small bus travels between the two villages, although both the inland road and the beach road offer pleasant short walks.
The island offers accommodation to suit all tastes and budgets. At the top end of the market is the Agistri Club Hotel, known to many Athenians who regard it as one of the best places to escape to for a short break from the city. The hotel has 16 en-suite rooms and provides good food and hospitality, with a limo on hand to collect you from the island's port upon arrival. There are also plenty of cheap hotels and guesthouses for those who plan to spend more time on the beach than in their room.
Probably the best way to approach the island of Agistri is to combine it with a trip to Athens itself. A direct ferryboat service travels from Piraeus, the port of Athens, usually taking around two hours, although a
faster catamaran ferry makes the journey in under 60 minutes. A number of cheap flights depart for Athens every day from airports around the UK, making it incredibly easy to get to Agistri.
Agistri is the perfect place for a peaceful, relaxing holiday. The least developed of the Saronic Islands, it is therefore ideal for escaping the crowds and enjoying a quiet beach holiday. It is little surprise, therefore, that the vast majority of Agistri's visitors come back year
upon year, knowing that there are few places on today's frenetic tourist map that can still offer such unspoiled tranquillity.
Call Global Holidays on 0870 1999038 for holidays to the Greek Islands.
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