|
Close to Halkida and
on the mainland is the historic site of ancient
Avlis (Avlida), where the Greeks gathered by the waters of the Evripos
and the southern Evian Gulf when they set out on the expedition against
Troy. Apart from Avlida, there are also very interesting seaside areas:
the Avlida Beach, Drossia, Loukissia, Skorponeri.
Southern Evia has been home to important cities for centuries, cities like
Halkida, the island's capital and significant archaeological sites such
as Eretria. The listed old houses of the ship masters and the seaside villages
on quiet scenic beaches are real jewels. And here, in the interior of southern
Evia, we encounter pine, oak, fir, and poplar forests. Running water such
as the mineral water of the famous spring of Honeftiko at Kymi. Picturesque
villages with churches and monasteries but also an authentic island feel,
like the port of Kymi from where boats leave for the Sporades. Here the
visitor has the chance to combine the quiet life with wonderful sandy beaches
under the sun, sea sports, tasty local specialities and fresh seafood,
and delicious wine. The large amounts of sunshine in the Sporades and the "meltemia",
the Aegean's seasonal northern wind, attract many tourists in the summers.
Skiathos Island is a
verdant idyllic paradise with more than 70 bays and coves
and three harbours. Nine small islands orbit Skiathos as
if mesmerized by the island's beauty. Skiathos is a popular
resort with an active night-life.
Skopelos Island is exceptionally
beautiful with scenic coves, bright white churches and monasteries
among picturesque farmhouses glimpsed through the gold-green
of the olive groves on even slopes, under the brilliant light
of the sun.
Alonnissos Island is
long and thin and surrounded by scattered islets. These islets
and the area around them are the National Marine Park which
is the last refuge of the Mediterranean
seal Monachus monachus. The ruins of an ancient city
can be found on Psathoura and a cave decorated with multi-hued
stalactites and stalagmites is the famous cave of the Cyclops.
Skyros Island is low
hills, good underwater fishing and diving, crystal clear
water, sandy beaches, little seaside tavernas, sea caves,
and the unique Skyrian ponies. From the castle above the
Hora, which combines Byzantine and Venetian ruins with older
fortifications, the town spreads out below you in a cubists
dream. Each of the houses has an interior that reminds one
of a folk art museum, and much of the handmade folk art is
sold in little shops. |
|
|
