A stones throw from Athens and just 20 minutes from Loutraki, the Melagavi Lighthouse is one of Greeces most beautiful lighthouses. The trip to Cape Heraion will reward you with a sunset with a view of the Corinthian Gulf that youll never forget.
Loutraki,just 80 km from the center of Athens, is a close and affordable destination that makes an ideal choice for getaways – in a flash. A short distance from the town lie hidden gems, beautiful beaches and corners that guarantee absolute serenity and relaxation.
After your stroll along the seaside promenade, its worth an excursion to the impressive lighthouse that crowns the cape of Heraion Perachora or Melagavi,18 km from Loutraki. If you find yourself there late in the afternoon, you will enjoy perhaps the most beautiful sunset on the Corinthian Gulf. The Melagavi Lighthouse, together with the wonderful Lake Vouliagmeniyoull pass as you head towards the lighthouse, make the perfect day trip.
The emblematic Melagavi Lighthouse
The emblematic Melagavi Lighthouse, also known as the Heraion Lighthouse, stands on the eponymous, rocky cape near the ancient temple of Hera. It is located at the northern entrance to the Gulf of Corinth and separates it from the Alkyonides Gulf. This lighthouse guides ships sailing the Corinthian Gulf as they head to the port and the Corinth Canal. The Melagavi Lighthouse first operated in 1897, powered by oil. During World War II it remained unlit, resuming operation in 1947. In 1982 the lighthouse was electrified, the oil machinery was replaced, and since 2001 it has been designated a listed monument.
Access to the lighthouse is by road from Loutraki towards Lake Vouliagmeni (Corinthia). To approach the lighthouse, you must leave the car and follow an easy path of about 300 m. Many visitors arrive here from early afternoon to capture the enchanting sunset. From here, the view over the Corinthian Gulf is exhilarating.
The archaeological site of Heraion Perachora
On the southern side of the cape, around a picturesque little cove, lie the remains of a significant ancient Greek sanctuary dedicated to the goddess Hera, which reach almost into the sea. In front of the archaeological site, a small sandy beach with fine pebbles and wonderful waters awaits your swims.
The... other Lake Vouliagmeni
An excursion to the lighthouse can be combined with a visit to Lake Vouliagmeni or Heraion,which you will encounter as you head towards the lighthouse (15 km from Loutraki).In reality it is a lagoon with salty water that is renewed through a narrow channel at its edge that connects it to the sea.Its waters are considered particularly warm and allow swimming until late autumn. The most beautiful beach lies on the western shores and is carpeted with fine white sand. By the lake there are also a few tavernas serving fish and meat, while visitors can enjoy water sports and cycle along the lakeside road.
