Saronic islands

Saronic (or Argosaronic) Gulf islands are in fact a cluster of small yet delightful islands, offered for quick getaways due to their proximity and easy access from the port of Piraeus. Though each of them has its own strong identity they all have more or less a picturesque colour, wonderful beaches, quaint villages, a well organized tourist infrastructure and a lively nightlife; characteristics that makes Attica seem more distant than it really is. The cluster consists of the islands of Agistri, Aegina, Poros, Salamina, Spetses, Hydra and Methana (the seaside area located in the Peloponnesian coastline).

The area of Saronic Gulf (Argosaronic Gulf) lies between the south part of Athens and the north-east part of Peloponnese. The area's contirbution to Greek history has been significant, starting from the Prehistorical Times till 1821 A.C.

The Saronic islands have become a preferable holiday resort for Athenians and other citizens living close to Athens, especially for weekend or other short getaways.

They have become widely known getaways for sailing lovers and people of all ages and budgets, thus gathering from jet-set visitors to backpackers.

Salamina is the island closest to Athens, the capital of Greece. It is composed by tree-topped hills, several beautiful beaches, coastal villages and also some archaeological sites. There is very regular connection to the capital, many times per day, summer and winter. As a result, quite a few people live there while working in Athens.

Agistri is a delightful and heavily forested island with few yet splendid beaches and with intense its traditional l colour. Though it becomes vibrant during summer weekends the islands follows faithfully a laid-back rhythm of life and you will definitely find several peaceful coves if you are looking for privacy.

Apart from the main bigger islands, there are smaller ones, like Kyra, Metopi, Aponissos and other smaller ones, some being close to Salamina while others at the north-west of Aegina.

Aegina is a charming island with pine-covered hills, neoclassical mansions, tranquil coves and some nice beaches, while Poros is a verdant and lively island with picturesque villages and several well-organized and quite descent beaches.

Poros, on the other hand, is the island closest to the Peloponnese, with many regular transfers from either Methana or from Galatas (Peloponnese) which is right oposite the island's port.

Hydra and Spetses are probably the most cosmopolitan of all, distinguished for their mansions of excellent architecture, reminders for their prosperous past. Both islands breathe a glamorous and romantic atmosphere and are ideal if you enjoy the exciting nightlife. Spetses, with its small 'satellite' island Spetsopoula is the southernmost of the Saronic islands and one of the most beautiful ones as well. regular boats depart from Porto Heli or Kosta, both in the Peloponnese. Cars are still not allowed on the island of Spetses and its picturesqueness has been maintained through time.

Saronic islands

The Saronic islands gather many tourists, especially Greeks, during summer but during the mild winter days as well. There are many hotels and tavernas operating all year round.