Methana

 The Land of Hephaestus 

Evocative Sceneries and Volcanic Explorations

Methana

The landscape of volcanic peninsula of Methana emits a mysterious atmosphere that promises lots of thrills even to the most discerning travelers. With the passage of the narrow strip of land connecting the peninsula with the coastline of Peloponnese, another world appears in front of your eyes ready to be explored blessed from impressive volcanic sceneries. The charming image of the spa town is the first image you will encounter when you reach the volcanic peninsula. The verdant isle of Agioi Anargyroi, the light waters with the sulfur smell of Vromolimni and the renovated hydrotherapy centre have been maintained from the time that Methana was renowned for its thermal baths. The uniqueness of this “island” starts from the magical volcanic landscapes accompanied from a mild climate that combines the sea with the mountain transforming this peninsula into a paradise. Methana is waiting for you to discover the hidden charming villages, the long history of the peninsula with its archaeological monuments and Byzantine churches of exceptional interest and the walking pathways reaching the volcanic crater of the imposing “sleeping” volcano.

Best of Methana

The Capital of Methana

The Town of Methana is the capital of Methana located on the southeast side of the peninsula. The town is one of the most popular spa towns of Greece that stretches along the picturesque waterfront. The verdant isle of Agioi Anargyroi and the light water with the strong sulphur smell of Vromolimni along with the renovated spa building has been maintained by the time Methana was known for its thermal springs. Sailboats and yachts can anchor at the marina of Methana.

The Baths of Pausanias 

The Baths of Pausanias is one of the most famous thermal springs of Methana located on the northeast side of the peninsula. It is the richest source of silicic acid in the world that supplies a small spa. During the summer, the spring overflows and the hot water (41 Celsius) flows into the sea. The sources of Pausanias are ideal for the treatment of gynecological and skin diseases. According to local tradition, this is the spring mentioned from Pausanias in his writings.  If you visit the baths, you need to be very careful. The gases can cause asphyxiation. In case of asphyxiation, you must light a candle. Also, you should always be accompanied from another person in case of an emergency.

The Church of Krasopanagia

The Chapel of Krasopanagia is a very beautiful church built at the end of the homonymous peninsula close to the village of Vathy. According to tradition, the chapel of Krasopanagia [meaning the Virgin Mary of Wine] was a vow to Virgin Mary from a seaman who was carrying barrels of wine, and at this point he was saved miraculously from the tempest. Indeed, as building materials, he used stone and wine, instead of water, hence the name of the church. The church is accessible either by boat from Vathy or by a rough path that starts from the village of Kammeni Hora.

The Building of the Volcanic Spa of Methana 

The Building of the Therapeutic Thermal Spas of Methana is one of the most famous thermal springs of Greece located in the center of the town. The beautiful building of the therapeutic thermal spas was constructed in 1930.The region boasts twenty five sulfur springs that form the lake of Vromolimnos. The waters have a milky colour with a strong smell of hydrogen sulfide. Since 3000 years ago, the thermal springs have healing properties for various diseases including arthritis, bronchitis, disorders of the nervous systems, rheumatism and skin diseases.

The Village of Kameni Hora

The Village of Kameni Hora is one of the most beautiful villages of Peloponnese located on the northwest side of the peninsula. The village has a traditional character protected from the volcanic stones and the endless forest of pine trees and olive groves. The surrounding areas offer imposing landscapes of wild beauty. Also, the path that leads to the main crater starts from the village, which is carved from lava offering a beautiful hiking experience.

The Volcano of Methana

The Volcano of Methana belongs to the volcanic arc of the Aegean with intense volcanic activity between the periods of 276 to 239 BC. The most famous crater of the volcano is situated above the village of Kameni Hora with a depth of fifty metres and a diameter of a hundred meters. The path to the crater is carved from lava offering a beautiful hiking experience. Other craters exist in the regions of Kipseli, Makrilogos and Mouska. The volcano boats thirty craters.

Discover Methana

Best of Methana

The Capital of Methana

The Town of Methana is the capital of Methana located on the southeast side of the peninsula. The town is one of the most popular spa towns of Greece that stretches along the picturesque waterfront. The verdant isle of Agioi Anargyroi and the light water with the strong sulphur smell of Vromolimni along with the renovated spa building has been maintained by the time Methana was known for its thermal springs. Sailboats and yachts can anchor at the marina of Methana.

The Baths of Pausanias 

The Baths of Pausanias is one of the most famous thermal springs of Methana located on the northeast side of the peninsula. It is the richest source of silicic acid in the world that supplies a small spa. During the summer, the spring overflows and the hot water (41 Celsius) flows into the sea. The sources of Pausanias are ideal for the treatment of gynecological and skin diseases. According to local tradition, this is the spring mentioned from Pausanias in his writings.  If you visit the baths, you need to be very careful. The gases can cause asphyxiation. In case of asphyxiation, you must light a candle. Also, you should always be accompanied from another person in case of an emergency.

The Church of Krasopanagia

The Chapel of Krasopanagia is a very beautiful church built at the end of the homonymous peninsula close to the village of Vathy. According to tradition, the chapel of Krasopanagia [meaning the Virgin Mary of Wine] was a vow to Virgin Mary from a seaman who was carrying barrels of wine, and at this point he was saved miraculously from the tempest. Indeed, as building materials, he used stone and wine, instead of water, hence the name of the church. The church is accessible either by boat from Vathy or by a rough path that starts from the village of Kammeni Hora.

The Building of the Volcanic Spa of Methana 

The Building of the Therapeutic Thermal Spas of Methana is one of the most famous thermal springs of Greece located in the center of the town. The beautiful building of the therapeutic thermal spas was constructed in 1930.The region boasts twenty five sulfur springs that form the lake of Vromolimnos. The waters have a milky colour with a strong smell of hydrogen sulfide. Since 3000 years ago, the thermal springs have healing properties for various diseases including arthritis, bronchitis, disorders of the nervous systems, rheumatism and skin diseases.

The Village of Kameni Hora

The Village of Kameni Hora is one of the most beautiful villages of Peloponnese located on the northwest side of the peninsula. The village has a traditional character protected from the volcanic stones and the endless forest of pine trees and olive groves. The surrounding areas offer imposing landscapes of wild beauty. Also, the path that leads to the main crater starts from the village, which is carved from lava offering a beautiful hiking experience.

The Volcano of Methana

The Volcano of Methana belongs to the volcanic arc of the Aegean with intense volcanic activity between the periods of 276 to 239 BC. The most famous crater of the volcano is situated above the village of Kameni Hora with a depth of fifty metres and a diameter of a hundred meters. The path to the crater is carved from lava offering a beautiful hiking experience. Other craters exist in the regions of Kipseli, Makrilogos and Mouska. The volcano boats thirty craters.

Archaeological Sites

The Acropolis of Ancient Methana is located on the hill of Paleokastro close to the village of Vathy. One can admire the remnants of well preserved volcanic rocks from the 4th century BC. Archaeological excavations show that the area has been inhabited since the Neolithic Age while he ruins of the ancient houses and byzantine churches survive in the sunken city of Methana.

The Archaeological Site of Agios Konstantinos and Eleni is another remarkable archaeological site located on the hill of Agios Konstantinos and Eleni. In 1990, the remnants of a prehistoric settlement, possible Mycenaean, were discovered under the foundations of a small church. Numerous figurines and jewelry were found also in one of the buildings of the settlement that suggests that it was a place of a god worship place, possibly of Poseidon. Archaeological findings are exhibited in the Archaeological Museum of Poros.

The Castle of Faviero is one of the most impressive sights of Methana located above the hill of the strait of Methana. The preserved monument was built from Nikolaos Karolos Favieros, a French Admiral, on the foundations of another castle in 1826. Philhellene Favieros was the one who commanded the first regular army of Greece. The castle is accessible through a sign posted hiking route.

The Temple of Agioi Anargyroi is located on the isle of Agioi Anargyroi. The namesake temple along with the remnants of ancient fortification of classical period and the relics of the cyclopean walls are the sole surviving remains.

The Plateau of Throni extends above the village of Megalohori. Until the beginning of the last century, a stone throne used to exist there, whose pieces have been transferred in the Archaeological Museum of Poros. One can admire the well preserved tower from the 4th century and remnants of the olive press from the 3rd century. On the top of Helona, there is a rectangular basis, probably of the Byzantine Period while remains of the roman baths are located in the area of Agios Nikolaos.

Chapels and Churches

The Chapel of Agios Ioannis the Theologian is a whitewashed chapel located in the center of the village of Kammeni Hora. It is a stone beuild church with a byzantine tiled roof and an important icon of Saint Georgios. The steep slope opposite the shurch is full of dark mass of lava.

The Chapel of Agios Dimitrios is one of the oldest churches of Methana located on the hill close to the village of Kounoupitsa. The church has a post byzantine character and it is worth visiting it for its beautiful frescoes and the old icons. If you ascend to the church, you will have the opportunity to admire panoramic views towards the islands of Aegina and Agistri.

The Chapel of Krasopanagia is a very beautiful church built at the end of the homonymous peninsula close to the village of Vathy. According to tradition, the chapel of Krasopanagia [meaning the Virgin Mary of Wine] was a vow to Virgin Mary from a seaman who was carrying barrels of wine, and at this point he was saved miraculously from the tempest. Indeed, as building materials, he used stone and wine, instead of water, hence the name of the church. The church is accessible either by boat from Vathy or by a rough path that starts from the village of Kammeni Hora.

The Church of Agios Nikolaos is one of the oldest churches of Methana located on the left side of the road towards the village of Vathy. Inside the church, one can admire the remnants of Ionic marbles carved with beautiful patterns. If you ascend to the church, you will have the opportunity to admire panoramic views towards the islands of Aegina and Agistri.

The Church of the Annunciation of Virgin Mary is one of the most beautiful churches of Methana located in the village of Makriloggos. The church is painted in the shades of white and blue. Here, one can admire panoramic views of the deep blue of the Aegean.

Monuments

The Building of the Therapeutic Thermal Spas of Methana is one of the most famous thermal springs of Greece located in the center of the town. The beautiful building of the therapeutic thermal spas was constructed in 1930.The region boasts twenty five sulfur springs that form the lake of Vromolimnos. The waters have a milky colour with a strong smell of hydrogen sulfide. Since 3000 years ago, the thermal springs have healing properties for various diseases including arthritis, bronchitis, disorders of the nervous systems, rheumatism and skin diseases.

The Petrokaravo is located on the pier of Agios Georgios. It is a semi-sunken cemented ship used from the Germans in order to trasport materials during the Second World War. The ship has a length of fourty five meters and it was built from the Germans in Perama.

Natural Beauties

The Baths of Pausanias is one of the most famous thermal springs of Methana located on the northeast side of the peninsula. . It is the richest source of silicic acid in the world that supplies a small spa. During the summer, the spring overflows and the hot water (41 Celsius) flows into the sea. The sources of Pausanias are ideal for the treatment of gynecological and skin diseases. According to local tradition, this is the spring mentioned from Pausanias in his writings.  If you visit the baths, you need to be very careful. The gases can cause asphyxiation. In case of asphyxiation, you must light a candle. Also, you should always be accompanied from another person in case of an emergency.

The Cave of Peristerion is one of the oldest caves of the country located in the area of Vathi. It was discovered in 1973 and it is estimated that the cave is aged 2.5 million years old. The length of the cave is two hundred fifty meters and consists of three chambers. The first room has a small lake, the second one is full of rocks while the third one has also a small lake. The last two chambers have also pretty impressive stalagmite formations. It is said that the cave extends to the bottom of Throni plateau.!

The Isle of Agioi Anargiroi is a verdant isle visible from the entrance of the visitor to the spa town of Methana. Agioi Anargyroi connected with the peninsula of Methana by a narrow strip of land. The isle is blessed with verdant vegetation and it is an ideal sunset spot. There, you can enjoy a romantic promenade amongst the ruins of ancient cyclopean walls.

The Volcano of Methana belongs to the volcanic arc of the Aegean with intense volcanic activity between the periods of 276 to 239 BC. The most famous crater of the volcano is situated above the village of Kameni Hora with a depth of fifty metres and a diameter of a hundred meters. The path to the crater is carved from lava offering a beautiful hiking experience. Other craters exist in the regions of Kipseli, Makrilogos and Mouska. The volcano boats thirty craters.

Promenades and Villages

Agios Georgios is a seaside village located on the north side of the peninsula. The church of Agios Georgios is the jewel of the village boasting an impressive wood carved temple. The charming and traditional settlement has an authentic atmosphere and it is widely known for its fresh fish taverns. Also, Agios Georgios offers panoramic views to the islands of Aegina and Agistri.

Kameni Hora is one of the most beautiful villages of Peloponnese located on the northwest side of the peninsula. The village has a traditional character protected from the volcanic stones and the endless forest of pine trees and olive groves. The surrounding areas offer imposing landscapes of wild beauty. Also, the path that leads to the main crater starts from the village, which is carved from lava offering a beautiful hiking experience.

Kounoupitsa is a mountainous village spreading on the mountainous slopes of the northern side of the peninsula. The settlement has a traditional character embellished from stone houses and narrow alleys with panoramic views of the Saronic Gulf. In the wider area, there are scattered churches worth visiting including the church of Panagia, the church of Agios Ioannis Theologos and the church of Agios Dimitrios.

Kipseli is a mountainous village located on the east side of the peninsula. The settlement is one of the oldest villages of the peninsula built on the mountainous slopes of the volcano drowned in verdant vegetation of vineyards, orchards and olive trees. In a close distance lies the charming village of Agioi Theodoroi with the astonishing views of the Saronic Gulf. The most interesting monument of the wider area is the Acropolis of Methana hosting the remains of a series of well-preserved volcanic rocks.

Makrilogos, else known as Pano Mouska, is a mountainous village located on the northwest side of the peninsula. Inhabited only from thirty persons, the settlement has maintained its traditional charm embellished from stone houses and winding alleys. Makrilogos offers panoramic views to the old baths and the island of Agistri. In the wider area, there are scattered churches worth visiting including the church of Agia Varvara and the chapels of Agios Ioannis and Agios Konstantinos.

Megalohori is a mountainous village spreads on a valley of the volcano on the west side of the peninsula. The surrounding area is blessed with landscapes of wild beauty and traces of volcanic rocks of Methana. The beautiful path to the crater of Helona starts from Megalohori. In the wider area, one can visit the Acropolis of Methana hosting the remains of a series of well-preserved volcanic rocks.

Methana Town is the capital of Methana located on the southeast side of the peninsula. The town is one of the most popular spa towns of Greece that stretches along the picturesque waterfront. The verdant isle of Agioi Anargyroi and the light water with the strong sulphur smell of Vromolimni along with the renovated spa building has been maintained by the time Methana was known for its thermal springs. Sailboats and yachts can anchor at the marina of Methana.

Vathi is a fishing village located on the west side of the peninsula. It is a beautiful settlement embellished with traditional houses and olive groves with panoramic view to the Gulf of Epidaurus. Vathi is also an ideal place for mooring. The most interesting attractions of the wider area include the Acropolis of Methana hosting the remains of a series of well-preserved volcanic rocks, the volcanic crater in Kameni Hora and the church of Agios Nikolaos. Vathi is known for its delicious fresh fish taverns.

Sunset Spots

Spot: Beach of Agios Nikolaos, Northeast Methana

Spot: Isle of Agioi Anargyroi, Southeast Methana

Spot: Village of Agios Georgios, North Methana

Spot: Village of Makrilogos, Northwest Methana

Spot: Volcano Crater of Helona, Highest Top of Methana

Excursions

Boat Trip: The Church of Krasopanagia is a very beautiful church built at the end of the homonymous peninsula close to the village of Vathy. According to tradition, the chapel of Krasopanagia [meaning the Virgin Mary of Wine] was a vow to Virgin Mary from a seaman who was carrying barrels of wine, and at this point he was saved miraculously from the tempest. Indeed, as building materials, he used stone and wine, instead of water, hence the name of the church. The church is accessible either by boat from Vathy or by a rough path that starts from the village of Kammeni Hora.

Boat Trip:  The Island of Aegina is the most endearing island of the Athenian lying just sixteen miles away from the beautiful capital of Greece. The island character is revealed from the glorious mountainous beauty of the slopes of Hellanian Mountain while the whitewashed houses and the neoclassical mansions lying at the narrow cobblestone streets of Hora give a charming aura to the island. Whether you want to explore the pine wood vegetation of the north and the dramatic rocky coastline of the east, or the fishing village of the south and the olive and pistachio groves of the west, you will definitely find your own natural beauty corner on this island.

Boat Trip: The Island of Poros is an island with a mysterious combination of the rugged landscapes of the Argolis with the island beauty of the Saronic Gulf. It may sound strange, however the island of Poros is build on two islands of different geological formations connected from a narrow strip of land, Spheria and Calabria, which was formed after the eruption of the volcano of Methana. Poros has its own distinctive beauty, which is revealed in the eyes of the travellers boasting a series of natural beauties of scenic villages and idyllic seashores surrounded from verdant pine forests. Excursion boats operate from the harbour of Methana.

Activities

Driving: Methana offers the opportunity to explore volcanic sceneries of extreme wild beauty. The best way to discover these beautiful landscapes is by driving. (1) One of the most beautiful driving routes of Methana is the one starting from the settlement of Dritsaika that leads to the deserted village of Panagitsa. Following the route, the road leads to the village of Megalohori passing through a dense forest of trees with magnificent views of the deep blue. Then, the downhill road leads to the acropolis of Methana and the beach of Paleokastro. Following the coastal road, you will reach the fishing village of Vathi. If you want to continue, the road goes uphill to the village of Kameni Hora. (2) Another driving route, not a renowned one, is the one starting from the town of Methana that leads to the northeast side of the peninsula. Following the uphill road, you will reach the village of Kipseli, one of the oldest settlements of Methana. One kilometre to the northeast side is the hill of Oga with remnants of the ancient acropolis, which is not easily accessible. From there, you can follow the downhill road after crossing the village of Agioi Theodoroi you will turn right towards the village of Agios Georgios. Passing from the monastery of Agia Varvara, the left junction leads to the beautiful village of Makrilogos with stunning views of the Saronic Gulf while the right junction leads to the Old Baths and the seaside village of Agios Nikolaos.

Hiking: Methana hosts numerous paths ideal for lovers of hiking. (1) One of the most beautiful routes includes the one starting one kilometre outside of the village of Kameni Hora.  It is a sign posted route passing through impressive rocky formations and pine forests that leads to the crater of the volcano with panoramic views of the Argosaronic Gulf. This is the main crater of the volcano open for travellers. (2) Another interesting route starts from the village of Kameni Hora that leads to the whitewashed chapel of Krasopanagia. Altghough it is a rather difficult route, the views are rewarding. (3) The route starting from the settlement of Dritsaika that leads to the abandoned settlement of Panagitsa is a also a beautiful hiking route. (4) The ones who wish to explore the volcano of Methana can follow the route that starts from the village Megalohori that leads to the mount of Helona, the highest peak of Methana.

Thermal Springs: The thermal springs of Methana have been known since antiquity, as they are a result of the volcanic activity of the peninsula. The springs are characterized from a large number of elements of trace, minerals and metals. The two springs in Methana Town include the central spring of the Methana Volcanic Spa along with the springs of Agios Nikolaos. Also, the baths of Pausanias is one of the most famous thermal springs of Methana, which is believed to be the richest source of silicic acid in the world that supplies a small spa. The sources of Pausanias are ideal for the treatment of gynecological and skin diseases. If you visit the baths, you need to be very careful. The gases can cause asphyxiation. In case of asphyxiation, you must light a candle. Also, you should always be accompanied from another person in case of an emergency.

Beaches

Agios Nikolaos is a pebbled beach with blue waters located close to the thermal springs of Pausanias. The beach is well organised with numerous amenities including sunbeds and umbrellas.

Almyra is a sandy beach with deep blue waters located in the village of Vathy.  It is a secluded beach ideal for those looking for tranquillity and relaxation.

Agios Georgios is a sandy beach with crystal clear waters and verdant vegetation. The beach is well organized with numerous amenities including sunbeds, umbrellas and various taverns.

Limnionas is a sandy beach with emerald waters. It is considered to be the most beautiful beach of Methana. There is a beach bar at the beach.

Nissaki is a sandy beach with crystal clear waters located at the entrance of the town of Methana. The beach is well organized with numerous amenities including sunbeds, umbrellas and water sport facilities.

Paleokastro is a beach with red volcanic rocks with deep blue waters. The beach is well organized with lots of taverns and amazing views of the gulf of Epidaurus.

Coffee Corners, Gastronomic Delights and Cocktail Inspirations

Coffee Corners 

En Plo B&B: Coffee, Methana Town

La Playa: Coffee, Limnionas Beach

Skipper: Coffee, Vathi

Gastronomic Delights

Akrogiali : Seafood, Agios Georgios

En Plo: Seafood, Agios Georgios

Girovolia : Souvlaki, Methana Town

Inotherapeftirio Ifestio: Greek Cuisine, Kameni Hora

Kapilio: Greek Cuisine, Methana Town

Kavos Pafsania: Seafood, Agios Nikolaos

Las Olas: Spanish Cuisine, Agios Nikolaos

Methanio: Greek Cuisine, Methana Town

Paleokastro: Seafood, Paleokastro Beach

Theoni: Seafood, Beach of Paleokastro

Tzimis: Seafood, Vathi

Vathi: Seafood, Vathi

Cocktails Inspirations

La Isla: Cocktails and Drinks, Nisaki Beach

Skipper: Cocktails and Drinks, Vathi

Local Products & Specialties

The local products of the island include olive oil, orange fruits and wine.

The peninsula of Methana does not have any particular gastronomic tradition. However, you should definitely taste the fresh fish and seafood of the island.

Events & Festivals

Every morning, a flea market with local products is held in the area close to the marina of Methana.

Every February or March, the Carnival of Methana takes place in Methana.

Every 23rd of April, the traditional celebration in honour of Agios Georgios takes place in the village of Kounoupitsa.

Every May, the Traditional Boat Show takes place in Methana.

Every August, the Festival of Methana takes place in the peninsula hosting a series of cultural special events including musical feasts, theatrical shows and dancing performances.

History & Mythology

Mythology

The peninsula of Methana is not associated with any myths.

History

Archaeological findings show that Methana has been inhabited from Ionians since the Neolithic period. In antiquity, Methana was known for its volcanic phenomena and thermal springs shown from references made from Ovid and Pausanias. In fact, Methana was first mentioned in written texts from Thucydides, Diodorus of Sicily and Strabo. In ancient times, Methana belonged to the region of Trizina, which was conquered from the Athenians in 425 BC. Up until the 2nd century BC, Methana became one of the most important naval bases of the Ptolemies in the Aegean named Arsinoe. During the 3rd century BC, Methana had a certain degree of independence since they mint their own coins with the representation of God Hephaestus, the god of fire and volcanoes. Methana served as a refugee for hundreds of women and children against the Turkish brutality on the Greek War of Independence. After the end of the war, the peninsula experienced significant growth as a town with thermal springs.

Travel & Transport

By Boat (26 Nautical Miles): Methana is accessible by boat from the harbour of Piraeus. The journey usually lasts one and a half hour. Methana is also connected with the islands of Aegina and Poros. Book your tickets with FerriesinGreece.com !

By Car (180 Kilometres): Methana is accessible by car. The journey usually lasts two hours. Following the Attica Road and then the National Road of Athens- Corinth, you will go left after the Isthmus of Corinth towards Epidaurus (Exit B – Corinth – Epidaurus). From there, follow the road until you reach the village of Galatas. Before you reach the village of Galatas, follow the straits connecting the Peloponnese to the Peninsula of Methana.

Mysterious Greece Tips

A Tip from a Friend: Authentic Volcanic Sceneries

Visit the area of Palea Loutra to witness authentic volcanic sceneries! If you want, you can follow the path leading to the center of the peninsula until the hill of Prophet Elias. There, one will have the opportunity to enjoy glorious views over the surrounding areas.

An Excursion to the Ancient Theatre of Epidaurus

Excursions are organized to the Ancient Theatre of Epidaurus! Various cultural events are held in the theatre during the summer. Boat excursions operate from Vathi.

Astonishing Views from the Village of Kounoupitsa

One of the most beautiful views of the peninsula is the one from the mountainous village of Kounoupitsa! However, the fishing village of Agios Georgios also offers astonishing views over the islands of Aegina and Agistri!

Cultural Events Under the Stars of the Aegean

The open air theatre of Kameni Hora organizes numerous cultural and musical events in the summer months!

Delicious Fish in the Villages of Agios Georgios and Vathi

Agios Georgios and Vathi are the most popular places for tasting the delicious fishes of Methana!

Find More Information: Cultural Association of Arsinoe

You can find more information about the peninsula from the Cultural Association of Arsinoe by calling 0030 22980 92244.

Hiking at Its Best: Abandoned Village or Volcanic Crater?

Exploring the Abandoned Village of Panagitsa

This route offers a wonderful view of the mountainous landscapes of Methana passing through points with spectacular views, volcanic craters, ancient stone paths and old cisterns along with the abandoned village of Panagitsa. With a small detour, one can also reach the highest point of the peninsula of Methana namely Helona at an altitude of 740 meters. The beautiful route starts from the village of Megalohori that leads to the village of Kamei Hora.

Reaching the Volcanic Crater of Kameni Hora

Hiking to the greatest volcanic crater of Kameni Hora is a unique experience offering unparalleled panoramic views of the Saronic Gulf. Crossing the village of Kameni Hora, the asphalt road ends after one kilometer. There, an uphill path begins with no relevant signs fro the volcano. The trail passes through dense vegetation and great lava formation with reddish brown colours. Twenty five minutes later, you will reach the top of the volcano and enjoy the most beautiful views of the Saronic Gulf. A few meters away lies the main crater of the volcano.

It’s Sunset Time

Fabulous is the sunset in Vathi with the sun setting behind the mountains painting the sky in vermillion colours!

Must visit: Villages of Agioi Theodoroi, Kounoupitsa and Kipseli

The charming mountainous villages of Agioi Theodoroi, Kounoupitsa and Kipseli are definitely must visit. You will be amazed from their traditional character and charm!

Kameni Hora: One of the Most Beautiful Villages of Peloponnese

Kameni Hora is one of the most beautiful villages of Peloponnese with volcanic stones and endless vegetation. The surrounding areas offer imposing landscapes of wild beauty. Walking around the village, you will encounter holes in the side of the volcano which have a constant temperature of 16 degrees of Celsium. The local people call them natural fridges and they are used for preserving food and wine.

Pausanias Baths: The Richest Source of Silicic Acid

Methana is known for their thermal springs. The Baths of Pausanias is one of the most famous thermal springs of Methana located on the northeast side of the peninsula. . It is the richest source of silicic acid in the world that supply a small spa. During the summer, the spring overflows and the hot water (41 Celsius) flows into the sea. The sources of Pausanias are ideal for the treatment of gynecological and skin diseases. According to local tradition, this is the spring mentioned from Pausanias in his writings.  If you visit the baths, you need to be very careful. The gases can cause asphyxiation. In case of asphyxiation, you must light a candle. Also, you should always be accompanied from another person in case of an emergency.

Thermal Springs of Methana

The six thermal springs of Methana were formed from the volcanic activity of the peninsula. The systematic exploitation of the thermal springs started in 1870 and the first hydrotherapy center were built in the early of the 20th century. The thermal springs reached their peak in the decade of 1970 favoured from the preference of the visitors of thermal springs tourism. The thermal springs of Methana are suitable for arthritis, disc disease, vertebral, rheumatic diseases, gynaecological disorders, infertility, neuroses, respiratory diseases, chronic bronchitis and skin diseases. According to the mayor of Methana “… the waters that flow from the sources ‘carry: numerous valuable trace minerals and fossils offering unique properties for treating many diseases and the overall rejuvenation of the body…”