Seaside strolls, authentic hospitality and traditional flavors. Our trip to Ermionida had it all and we recommend the best for your next getaway.
In the heart of southeastern Argolida, the Municipality of Ermionida unfolds between green pine forests, tranquil bays, and cosmopolitan resorts. Porto Heli, Ermioni, Koilada, Agios Aimilianos, and Kranidi compose a mosaic of experiences for every kind of traveler, from lovers of the sea and luxury to explorers of nature and picturesque villages.
Accessible by road as well as by sea, the Municipality of Ermionida is a destination that has it all, from abundant nature and traditional charm to cosmopolitan touches. However many days you choose to visit, it will offer you unique moments of relaxation overlooking the endless blue. We traveled there and prepared a complete guide for your holidays.
Porto Heli: Cosmopolitan vibe and luxury
One of the areas best-known summer holiday destinations, Porto Heli has, since the 1960s, been a magnet for celebrities and entrepreneurs. Its natural bay is ideal for sailing and hosting yachts, as its shape creates a natural harbor, the most sheltered in Argolida.
This picturesque, cosmopolitan settlement offers a wealth of contemporary hotels, cafés, and restaurants. Opposite lie the ruins of the half-sunken city of Alieis, and sections of defensive walls have been found in and out of the sea, dating to the Classical period. A section of the Acropolis of the Alieis, estimated to have been built around 436 BC, also survives. In antiquity, the Alieis were among the greatest centers of purple-dye production. In later years, Porto Heli was called Porto Bizato or El Harbor by the Italians in the 18th century, and it was a safe harbor used by the inhabitants of Kranidi and Ermioni.
Behind the settlement lies the Ververonta Lagoon, which, according to tradition, was the favorite hideout of Barbary pirates. Today it is known for its therapeutic waters and for activities such as birdwatching.
Near Porto Heli are some of the Municipality of Ermionidas finest beaches, such as Agios Aimilianos with its clear waters, luxurious villas, and views across to Spetses, the popular Hinitsa, as well as Pefkakia, Korakia, Petrothalassa, and Kounoupi. Very close by is Kosta, from where its easy to reach Spetses by water taxi, kaiki, or ferry-boat.
Kranidi: The capital of Ermionida
The capital of Ermionida, with a strong traditional character, Kranidi is a small town built amphitheatrically on the hills of Agia Anna and Bardounia, with panoramic views. During Ottoman rule it was a powerful maritime force with a large number of merchant ships, and in 1823 -1824 it was the seat of the Government and the Executive Body.
A stroll in Kranidi is full of color, with an air that recalls the Saronic islands. In its narrow lanes, traditional farmhouses stand beside later Captains Houses with ornate balconies. Notable traditional buildings in Kranidi include the Town Hall and the library, while the three restored windmills, the Tower well, and the stone olive presses are also significant.
Ermioni: Island vibe and tradition
Built on the eastern slope of Pronas hill, Ermioni feels like an island and retains its traditional color with its picturesque little harbors and cobbled alleys. Atop the ancient wall of the 4th century stands its Metropolis, the Church of the Taxiarches, as well as other traditional historic buildings such as the Barracks and the Kapodistrian School. During Frankish rule it was called «Kastri», due to its fortification with walls constructed upon the remains of ancient structures.
On the Bisti peninsula are the ruins of the ancient city, founded by the Dryopes who were displaced from central Greece. It is worth a walk through the pine forest with the ancient remains up to the lighthouse with its stunning view. In Ermioni youll find tavernas to rest in, as well as café-bars to sip your drink at sunset. Swim at the little harbor Mandraki, at the organized Kouverta beach, or at the pebbly Petrothalassa.
Koilada: A fishing village with history
Koilada is the ideal place for those who love serenity, fresh fish, and strolls by the water. West of Kranidi, it is built in a fertile valley near the ancient city of Massita. It is famous for its fresh fish, as well as for the wooden fishing-boat shipyards, among the few remaining in Ermionida.
In front of its harbor lies the lush green islet Koronida, owned by the shipping family of Livanos, while opposite the settlement towers Franchthi Cave, one of the areas most important sights, which you can reach via a hiking trail or by boat.
During the Franchthi Cave Paleolithic and Mesolithic periods, it served as a refuge for hunters and fishermen. In the Neolithic, habitation expanded outside the cave and the settlement was called Paralia. Today it lies submerged due to the rise in sea level. In Koilada you also encounter the Ramsar-protected Marsh, an important source of life for several aquatic and birds of prey. One kilometer west of Koilada is the sandy, shallow Lepitsa beach, followed by the Doroufi area with numerous small beaches.
What to do in Ermionida
Visit the Honey & Bee Museum, to see the hives and bees up close and learn all about honey production, with a complete guided tour of its verdant grounds. The museum is located just outside Kranidi and is built according to the architecture of Kranidis old houses with stone and reeds on the roof, fully harmonized with the estates natural landscape.
The area is famed for its olive-growing activity. You can visit in autumn when the Olive and Olive Oil Festival takes place.
A visit is worthwhile to the Folklore Workshop of the Municipality of Ermionida in Kranidi, with exhibits from daily life and the regions agrarian history.
Get to know the village of Fournoi north of Kranidi, with its traditional island color, narrow cobbled lanes, gardens bursting with flowers, and colorful houses.
If you love hiking, head to Katafiki Gorge, lush with pines and plane trees, with the chapel of St. Nicholas at its exit.
Wander around Thermisia, the seaside village with the limestone rock where the Venetian Castle was built.
Dont miss driving to the famed Didyma, a settlement in the heart of the fertile plain. On the northern slopes of the mountain lies Pelei, a village distinguished by the uniformity of its houses.
Outside the village of Didyma are two crater-shaped geological formations, the Small and the Great Cave, also known as the Dolines of Didyma, of impressive size and roughly the same diameter, likely formed by ground subsidence.
In the semi-mountainous area north of Ermioni you will encounter the village of Iliokastro that is famed for its wine. There survive the ruins of the ancient city of Eileoi, the enclosure of its walls and traces of Mycenaean tombs, while once, according to the testimony of Pausanias, the sanctuaries of Demeter and her daughter Persephone stood there.
Accommodation
AKS Porto Heli is a 4-star hotel overlooking the bay of Porto Heli and the island of Spetses, set in an ideal location to enjoy all the beauty of the Eastern Peloponnese in a wonderful environment.
If youre seeking more serenity and privacy, the newly built Anemos Sea Villas right on the seafront, at Petrothalassa beach, amid an olive grove, offer all the amenities you might need. Fully equipped, they promise a luxurious stay and unforgettable holidays.
In a blossoming garden, the Nautica Bay hotel in Porto Heli offers different room types for every need, such as suites and family rooms with views of the sea, the garden, and its impressive pool.
If youre looking for the ideal setting for indulgent holidays and family getaways, the Pentathlon Villas are very close to Porto Heli and Kosta. The location of the five villas is ideal for short escapes to nearby beaches, as well as to Spetses.
Food, coffee & drink
For flavors from the sea and refined dishes, take a seat at the tables of the Papadias 1958 taverna, which enjoy unobstructed views across Porto Heli. For over 60 years the recipes have showcased the fresh local bounty of the sea and the land.
For coffee and food, opt for Coco Bar in Porto Heli, open all day and offering dishes for every taste. Try the cocktails and savor the calm of the sea at sunset.
The Wine Bistrot Veranda del Vino boasts an impressive balcony over the bay of Porto Heli. In its warm setting you will try a menu designed so that flavor pairs harmoniously with a wine list from Greek and international vineyards.
Opposite youll find their well-stocked wine shop, Cava Del Vino, to choose the bottle youll tuck into your luggage. The store brings the best wines from around the world to your table, through a collection that showcases the finest labels from each region.
A stop for coffee and food is a must at Le Petit Cafè, in a central spot of Porto Heli. Enjoy your breakfast with many different options from early on and, if you want to take a stroll, dont forget to grab an ice cream to go.
In Ermioni, dont miss visiting the atmospheric all-day café and cocktail bar Casa Dei, on Akti Mitsaeon, with a balcony that seems to float above the sea, in the bay of Ermioni. In the morning youll have coffee and try brunch, while in the afternoon the flavors pair perfectly with the imaginative cocktails as the sun sets.
For fresh traditional bread, coffee, sweets, and baked goods, be sure to visit Karagiannis Bakeries. With more than 10 bakery-patisseries, youll always find one of their branches along your way, among others in Porto Heli, in Ermioni, and in Kambos Kranidiou.
Shopping
The ideal store for shopping in Resort wear and Eyewear is Myrto Kresta Porto Heli. There youll find a huge collection of clothes for your summer holidays, striking swimwear, and accessories. Stealing the show is the wide variety of sunglasses that satisfies every customer.
