Agistri

The Idyllic Island

Dives in Emerald, Sapphire and Turquoise Waters
An explosion of nature. Those four words describe the island of Agistri, an idyllic island blessed with the finest of nature. The pristine tropical seashores and charming coves of the island are surrounded from the dense vegetation of pine trees, olive trees and wildflowers. Agistri is a peaceful and calm island ideal for lovers of nature. Grasp the opportunity to relax in the turquoise waters of the island and to ride a horse through the mysterious beauties of Agistri following the beautiful walking routes of the dense pine forest. Traditional villages, whitewashed houses with flowery courtyards and terraces, exotic beaches with azure waters, pine and olive trees and scents of thyme and oregano will take your breath away. The hospitality of the islanders, the calmness of the virgin nature, the emerald waters of the sea will definitely compensate the travellers from the first moment!

Best of Agistri

The Capital of Agistri

The Settlement of Megalohori, else known as Mylos, is the capital of Agistri located on north side of the island. Cobblestone streets, stone houses, fuchsia bougainvillea, traditional cafeterias and an impressive windmill contribute to the natural beauty of the area. The surrounding area of Megalohori is very beautiful as seen from the sandy seashores with turquoise waters drowned in verdant vegetation. The jewel of the village is the church of Zoodohos Pigi. However, one can enjoy breathtaking views from the church of Agioi Pantes situated on the top of the hill of the village.

The Beach of Halkiada 

The Beach of Halkiada is a rocky secluded cove with azure waters located on the east side of the island. The beach is the only nudist beach of the island. It is totally unorganized so you will have do bring your own refreshments and umbrellas. The beach can be accessed from the narrow dirt road starting from the harbour of Skala towards the area of Skliri.

The Church of Panagia 

The Church of Panagia is a beautiful church located on top of a hill close to the village of Metohi. It is one of the most important sights of the island. The church is one of the favourite destinations for lovers of hiking. The location of the church offers excellent views to the sunset! The traditional celebration in honour of Virgin Mary takes place in the church on August 15.

The Isle of Aponisos 

The Isle of Aponisos is an earthly paradise blessed with the finest of nature. The isle has managed to preserve its exotic beauty with unique colours and incredible formations of the coastline surrounded from a dense forest of pine trees. Aponisos is located on the southwest side of Agistri. It is an ideal destination for spearfishing and snorkelling lovers.

Discover Agistri

Best of Agistri

The Capital of Agistri

The Settlement of Megalohori, else known as Mylos, is the capital of Agistri located on north side of the island. Cobblestone streets, stone houses, fuchsia bougainvillea, traditional cafeterias and an impressive windmill contribute to the natural beauty of the area. The surrounding area of Megalohori is very beautiful as seen from the sandy seashores with turquoise waters drowned in verdant vegetation. The jewel of the village is the church of Zoodohos Pigi. However, one can enjoy breathtaking views from the church of Agioi Pantes situated on the top of the hill of the village.

The Beach of Halkiada 

The Beach of Halkiada is a rocky secluded cove with azure waters located on the east side of the island. The beach is the only nudist beach of the island. It is totally unorganized so you will have do bring your own refreshments and umbrellas. The beach can be accessed from the narrow dirt road starting from the harbour of Skala towards the area of Skliri.

The Church of Panagia 

The Church of Panagia is a beautiful church located on top of a hill close to the village of Metohi. It is one of the most important sights of the island. The church is one of the favourite destinations for lovers of hiking. The location of the church offers excellent views to the sunset! The traditional celebration in honour of Virgin Mary takes place in the church on August 15.

The Isle of Aponisos 

The Isle of Aponisos is an earthly paradise blessed with the finest of nature. The isle has managed to preserve its exotic beauty with unique colours and incredible formations of the coastline surrounded from a dense forest of pine trees. Aponisos is located on the southwest side of Agistri. It is an ideal destination for spearfishing and snorkelling lovers.

Archaeological Sites

The Ancient Town of Kadoudi is the old capital of the island. The site displays the remains of the oldest settlement of Agistri. Kadoudi is located in a verdant area close to the village of Megalohori. Here, one can admire panoramic views over the entire island.

Chapels and Churches

The Chapel of Agioi Pandes and the Chapel of Agioi Theodoroi stand amidst the pine tree forest above the village of Megalohori. The access is easy with a ten minute walk. The churches are located within Kadoudi, the oldest settlement of the island.

The Church of Agia Kiriaki is one of the most beautiful churches of Agistri located in the area of Limenaria. It is worth visiting the church for the wonderful views of the surrounding areas. The traditional celebration in honour of Agia Kiriaki takes place in the church on July 17.

The Church of Agioi Anargyroi is one of the most remarkable religious monuments of Agistri located in the village of Skala. The church is pure white with an impressive blue dome. The traditional celebration in honour of Agioi Anargyroi takes place in the church on July 1.

The Church of Panagia is a beautiful church located on top of a hill close to the village of Metohi. It is one of the most important sights of the island. The church is one of the favourite destinations for lovers of hiking. The location of the church offers excellent views to the sunset! The traditional celebration in honour of Virgin Mary takes place in the church on August 15.

The Church of Zoodochos Pigi is the cathedral of Agistri located in the village of Megalohori. It is worth visiting the church for its beautiful wall paintings. The traditional celebration in honour of the saint takes place in the church on Easter Friday. This is one of the most important religious celebrations of Agistri.

Natural Beauties

The Lake of Lekani is a salt lake located on the road from Limenaria to Aponisos. It is a really beautiful area with dense vegetation of pine trees. Within the greater area, one can find the charming chapel of Agios Nikolaos.

The Isle of Aponisos is an earthly paradise blessed with the finest of nature. The isle has managed to preserve its exotic beauty with unique colours and incredible formations of the coastline surrounded from a dense forest of pine trees. Aponisos is located on the southwest side of Agistri. It is an ideal destination for spearfishing and snorkelling lovers.

Promenades & Villages

Limenaria is a traditional village located on the north side of the island. The settlement has an authentic character embellished with stone houses and cobblestone streets while the surrounding area is blessed with verdant vegetation. The charming harbour of Mareza is an example of the magical beauty of the area. The sole tavern of the village is known for the delicious specialties of the Greek cuisine. From Limenaria you can follow the route that leads to the area of Limni and the chapel of Agios Nikolaos.

Megalohori, else known as Mylos, is the capital of Agistri located on north side of the island. Cobblestone streets, stone houses, fuchsia bougainvillea, traditional cafeterias and an impressive windmill contribute to the natural beauty of the area. The surrounding area of Megalohori is very beautiful as seen from the sandy seashores with turquoise waters drowned in verdant vegetation. The jewel of the village is the church of Zoodohos Pigi. However, one can enjoy breathtaking views from the church of Agioi Pantes situated on the top of the hill of the village.

Metohi is a traditional village lying on the mountain slopes between Megalohori and Skala. It is a beautiful settlement with panoramic views of Agistri. The village has an authentic charm embellished with red tiled roof houses and charming alleys. The sole tavern of the village is known for the delicious specialties of the cuisine of Greece.

Skala is the harbour of Agistri located on the northeast side of the island. The settlement offers many amenities and it is known for the crystal clean waters of the beach. The imposing whitewashed church of Agioi Anargyroi is located in the village. The surrounding area is drowned from sandy and rocky seashores surrounded from dense vegetation of a pine tree forest.

Sunset Spots

Spot: Beach of Dragonera, South Agistri

Spot: Church of Agioi Pantes, North Agistri

Spot: Church of Panagia, Metohi Village

Spot: Isle of Aponisos, Southwest Agistri

Excursions

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.

Activities

Bicycling: The countryside of Agistri makes it an ideal destination for cycling lovers. One can enjoy riding a bicycle around the island of Agistri.

Driving: One of the most beautiful routes of the island is the one to the area of Limenaria. The route is stunning with panoramic views of the surrounding areas revealing landscapes of the blue sea and the dramatic formations of the surrounding islands. Limenaria is visible from the road giving bird’s eye views from a distance! Another beautiful route is the one leading to the verdant area of Aponisos! Don’t miss it!

Horse Riding: Agistri offers invigorating experiences of riding a horse along the seashore. You can find the riding school of Agistri in the village of Megalohori.

Kayaking: The opportunity to practice kayak in Agistri is definitely an unforgettable experience. You will have the chance to admire spectacular rocky formations and the beautiful beaches! The kayak center of Agistri is located at the beach of Skala.

Sailing: With a beautiful coastline and turquoise waters, Agistri is a paradise for sailing enthusiasts. Sailing around the island is fully recommended. The surrounding islets of Dorousa, Metopi and Spalathronisi have exceptional beaches. One of the most beautiful anchorage spots is the peninsula of Aponisos. There is a small quay for one of two boats in front of the tavern of Aponisos. The southern side of the peninsula is well protected from the north winds. Depending on weather conditions, Dorousa might be a better anchor spot that is also blessed with emerald waters, as Dorousa is well protected from northeastern, eastern and southeastern winds.

Walking: Agistri hosts numerous paths ideal for lovers of nature and walking. The most beautiful route of Agistri is the route Skala – Metohi –Megalohori. Choose the sunset time to walk to this route!

Beaches

Aponisos is a golden sandy beach with turquoise waters located on the southwest side of the island. It is a private island maintaining its natural beauty and it is open for the visitors from June to October. The beach is well organized with umbrellas and sunbeds. Aponisos is ideal for snorkelling.

Dragonera is a pristine beach with turquoise waters surrounded from dense vegetation located between Limenaria and Megalohori. It is one of the most beautiful beaches of Agistri. The beach has a beach bar and it is an ideal sunset spot.

Halkiada is a rocky secluded cove with azure waters located on the east side of the island. . It is one of the most beautiful beaches of Agistri. The beach is the only nudist beach of the island. It is totally unorganized so you will have do bring your own refreshments and umbrellas. The beach can be accessed from the narrow dirt road starting from the harbour of Skala towards the area of Skliri.

Mareza is a natural beauty spot with a rocky beach surrounded from the pine tree forest. It is actually a small platform built in the rocks of the coastline. The beach is accessible from a path starting from the village of Limenaria towards the cove of Mareza.

Skala is a long sandy and pebbled beach stretching out from the harbour of the island. The beach is well organized with numerous amenities including sunbeds and cafeterias.

Skliri is a rocky and pebbled beach with crystal clear waters surrounded the dense vegetation. The beach offers amazing views over the Argosaronic Gulf.

Coffee Corners, Gastronomic Delights and Cocktails Inspirations

Coffee Corners

Alter Ego: Crepes and Waffles, Mylos

Café Melirriton: Coffee, Skala

Copa Cabana: Coffee & Pastries, Skala

Kyma: Ice Cream, Skala

Sunrise: Coffee, Skala

Gastronomic Delights

Alkioni: Greek Cuisine, Skliri

Avli Pizzeria: Italian Cuisine, Skala

Kastro: Greek Cuisine, Megalohori

Mandraki: Seafood, Megalohori

Moshos: Greek Cuisine, Skala

Oasis Seaside Restaunt: Mediterranean Cuisine, Skala

Ouzeri Aponisos: Seafood, Aponisos

Parnassos: Greek Cuisine, Metohi

Tasos : Greek Cuisine, Limenaria

Toxotis: Greek Cuisine, Limenaria

Cocktails Inspirations

Hook Club: Cocktails and Drinks, Skliri

Kastro: Cocktails and Drinks, Megalohori

Taboo Club: Cocktails and Drinks, Skala

Local Products & Specialties

The local products of the island include olive oil and fresh fish.

The local specialties of the island include spoon sweets, liquors and homemade pasta.

Events & Festivals

Every 1st of July, the traditional celebration in honour of Agioi Anargyroi takes place in the church of Agioi Anargyroi above the beach of Skala.

Every 7th of July, the traditional celebration in honour of Agia Kyriaki takes place in Limenaria.

Every 15th of August, the traditional celebration in honour of the Assumption of Virgin Mary takes place in the church of Panagia in Metohi.

History & Mythology

Mythology

According to mythology, Athena Aphaia hid in the sea caves of the island in order to escape from the fishermen of Aegina. Goddess Artemis helped Athena Aphaia by giving her flowers to decorate her head in order not to be recognized. This is the way that the island got its old name of Kekrifalia meaning beautiful decorated head.

History

Archaeological findings show that Agistri has been inhabited since 2.500 years ago, when the island was known as Kekrifalia. However, Agistri was not continuously occupied, although its early inhabitation gave some important apparitions on Greek literature including the Iliad of Homer whilst Diodoros and Thucydides mention the island with its original name. Agistri was part of the Kingdom of Aegina along with the neighbouring islands of Aponisos, Kontari and Megaritissa, which was governed from King Aeakos, and the island followed the historical path of Greece. It was first dominated from the Byzantine Empire and then conquered from the Ottomans. In 1835, the Community of Agistri was formed from the Royal Decree with 240 inhabitants.

Travel & Transport

By Boat (20.5 Nautical Miles): Agistri is accessible by boat from the harbour of Piraeus. The journey usually lasts two hours. Agistri is also connected with the island of Aegina. Book your tickets with FerriesinGreece.com !

Mysterious Greece Tips

Aponisos Isle: Exotic Beauty

Perhaps, one of the most beautiful areas of Agistri is the island of Aponisos. The Isle of Aponisos is an earthly paradise blessed with the finest of nature. The isle has managed to preserve its exotic beauty with unique colours and incredible formations of the coastline surrounded from a dense forest of pine trees. Aponisos is located on the southwest side of Agistri. It is an ideal destination for spearfishing and snorkelling lovers.

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. For more information, contact the cultural association of Agistri! Excursion boats operate from the harbour of Agistri.

Astonishing Views from the Chapel of Prophet Elias on Dorousa Isle

The charming chapel of Prophet Elias in the island of Dorousa offers fantastic views of the surrounding areas.

Camping at the Beach of Dragonera

Agistri is a very popular destination for free campers, since it is located within walking distance of Athens. The verdant vegetation of the island offers plenty of shade. The beaches of Halkiada and Dragonera are the best beaches for free camping. However, keep in mind that free camping is prohibited according to the legislation of Greece.

Emerald, Sapphire and Turquoise: The Most Beautiful Beaches of Agistri

Dragonera and Halkiada are the most beautiful beaches of the island!

Explore the Unexplored: Agistri Hinterland

Even if you are not a lover of hiking, it is worth ascending to the village of Metohi in order to admire the traditional character of the island and the breathtaking views over the sea!

It’s Sunset Time

On the beach of Dragonera, one will have the opportunity to enjoy one of the best sunsets in the Saronic!

Hiking at Its Best: The Highest Point of Agistri

The church of Agioi Pantes is one of the favorite spots for the lovers of hiking! There, one will have the opportunity to enjoy breathtaking views over the Argosaronic Gulf. The church is located on the top of the hill of Megalohori.

Horse Riding in Agistri

Agistri offers invigorating experiences of riding a horse along the seashore. You can find the riding school of Agistri in the village of Megalohori.

Movies Under the Stars the Aegean Sky

The open air cinema of Agistri offers a relaxed vista under the bright stars of the Aegean. The cinema operates from June until September.

Sailing and Yachting in Agistri

Agistri is one of the favourite destinations of sailing and yachting lovers. The emerald and turquoise waters of the island and the rocky seashores provide a series of places for anchorage. Aponisos is a favourite mooring for yachts. Agistri is surrounded from the charming islands of Dorousa, Metopi, Kira and Spalathronisi. These islands are ideal for excursions with sailboats and yachts. One of the most beautiful anchorage spots is the peninsula of Aponisos. There is a small quay for one of two boats in front of the tavern of Aponisos. The southern side of the peninsula is well protected from the north winds. Depending on weather conditions, Dorousa might be a better anchor spot that is also blessed with emerald waters, as Dorousa is well protected from northeastern, eastern and southeastern winds.

Photo Credits

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Note: All the images are copyrighted from their owners. Please see Terms & Conditions. You can find the original images at the following links:

Dragonera Beach: Agistrigreece.com

Emerald: Irene Vlachou by Flickr

Endless Blue: Irene Vlachou by Flickr

Halkiada Beach: Irene Vlachou by Flickr

House: Irene Vlachou by Flickr

Landscape: Irene Vlachou by Flickr

Limenaria Village: Ggria by Wikemedia

Mareza Cove: Margarita Prounia by Wikemedia

Olive Tree: Irene Vlachou by Flickr

Rocky Beach: Shutterstock

Tree: Emanuel Eragne by Flickr

Waves: Nektarios Karagiannis by Flickr