Poros

Under the wonderful blue sky of Greece, right next to its capital of Athens, lie the Argosaronic diamonds, the small islands of a lush bay, the nearest escape from the busy streets of the city. Poros is one of them, an island full of pine trees and vegetation, crystal clear beaches, a lively waterfront adorned with shops, cosy cafés, bars and taverns, and its capital which has been declared as a protected settlement.

So close to the mainland, though, is a place full of beauty, tranquillity and serenity. A destination where the action co-exists harmoniously with beautiful scenery, and the picturesque countryside. Easily reached by a car (taking less than two hours), or you can take one of the frequent Flying Dolphins from the port of Piraeus and in almost an hour will get you to the island (the ferry boats can also take your car but the trip lasts for 2h:15m).

The trademark of Poros town and the first to see when approaching the port is the historic Clock tower, built back in 1927 at the top of the hill among pines and prickly pears. From up there you can relax and enjoy a panoramic view of the narrow canal, the pier with all the sailing boats being tied up, and the broader area.

The town is built in the shape of an amphitheatre over the two hills, with grand traditional mansions on the coastline and picturesque cobbled streets, as well as a wide selection of entertainment venues. These are the ingredients of this quiet, yet cosmopolitan, destination that attracts visitors from all ages. The residents of Poros are - like any other Greek island - spontaneous, friendly and hospitable.

Poros means ‘passage’ and over the years has been the theatrical scene of major historical events, like during the Revolution of 1821 (there was a seat of government from April 15 - June 16, 1827 and in October 1828 they determined the borders of the newly established Greek state) but also tragic ones, like the strong civil unrest in 1831.

Peer into the history and tradition of the island through a visit to its Archaeological and its Folklore Museums. Also visit the Temple of Poseidon (520 BC). The Zoodohos Pigi Monastery –the most impressive ecclesiastical monument on the island, defined by high walls without openings apart from some tiny windows, a large wooden main gate, full of old metal rivets, which served to strengthen its entrance. The church inside has an ornate decoration, and the historicity of the monastery is signed by the family tombs of Tombazis and Miaoulis (war heroes of 1821), located in the courtyard.

Poros is an island of serenity, romance and relaxation. The numerous beauties have been praised by top writers such as Nobel Prize winner George Seferis, N. Dragoumi and the American Henry Miller. Its overgrown pine trees reach all the way down to the sandy beaches.  Ideal for daily trips and excursions, visit nearby islands (like Aegina and Hydra) or islets (Bourtzi, Modi and Daskalio) and Peloponnese through Galatas (is only four minutes away). Take the opportunity to stroll around the Lemon Forest, a verdant hill with more than 30,000 lemon and orange trees, located on the opposite coast of the Peloponnese, southeast of the town of Galatas. The boat trip will only take a few minutes.

Taking the road on the northwest, will lead you to the former mansion Residence of Othon, nowadays being used as naval training and military facilities; and the small beach of Aspros Gatos (White Cat) full of traditional taverns and fresh fish. Next, is the Neorio, a sandy beach where the pine trees sweep right down to the water's edge and the romantic "Love Bay" (Limanaki Agapis). Bask in the turquoise blue waters of a beach surrounded by verdant pine trees that literally dip their needles into the sea - a unique and natural shade.

A bit further, you will find the old Russian Naval base (built in 1834) and a picturesque bay, right on the opposite of the islet of Daskalio. Swim in the crystal clear waters of the long and sandy beach of Askeli; the hotels and bars situated here make it an interesting tourism resort with buzzing nightlife.

If you enjoy scuba diving, underneath the monastery, is the quiet beach of Vagiona, which will reveal to you an underwater town, where at the bottom are easily discernible paved roads, or the foundations of ancient houses.

Take your sailboat (or rent one with a skipper) to discover the surrounding islets:

• Bourtzi: home to the fortress of the Byzantine admiral Nasar
• Modi: with its shipwreck from the Mycenaean period, and
• Daskalio: with its chapel dedicated to Virgin Mary.

• There are flying dolphins and ferries departing daily from the port of Piraeus, or nearby islands of Aegina, Hydra, and Spetses
• By car to Galatas and then by ferry boat, which operates regularly; the route lasts only 15 minutes.