Poros, Galatas and Troizina

Today we would like to talk a bit about our own area, the location that will host Live-Bio in its first steps. It is one of the most fertile parts of the Greek mainland, separated by only 200 meters of water from the traditional, whitewashed island of Poros. A land of sandy beaches, secluded bays, crystal clear waters, pine forest and lemon trees, yet only one hour away from the port of Athens (Piraeus) and 2,5 hours from the Athens International Airport.

 

 

Our ‘neighbourhood’ is made up of two locales, the region of Troizina on the North-East of the Peloponnese and the island of Poros literally across.

Troizina, blessed with over 300 days of sunshine each year, is home to some of the freshest agricultural, dairy and other natural products. In addition, it is the birthplace of Theseus, king of ancient Athens and son of Aegeas, after whom the glorious blue sea around us has been named. Legend has it that Theseus was born on the tiny island that lies literally at the foot of our property.

Troizina is hosted by the state of Argolis, home to two UNESCO World Heritage Sites and the place where the expedition to Troy started. The closest World Heritage Site is the Ancient Theatre of Epidaurus (Epidavros), a wonder of architecture and sound engineering, featuring acoustics that would be envied even by the most modern sound halls. Located in a stunning natural setting neighbouring the famous ancient hospital of Asclepius, the Ancient Theatre of Epidavros is a sight that should not be missed.

 

The second World Heritage Site in our region is the palace of king Agamemnon, leader of the Achaioi in the battle of Troy. One can only marvel at the gigantic palace, reminiscent of Egyptian structures, with the glorious royal tombs and the impressive Gate of the Leons. Walking through a palace that has over 3000 years of life is an awe inspiring experience and makes for a memorable archaeological visit.

 

Less than 1,5 kilometres away from our property lies the tranquil town of Galatas. Even though it is not host to noteworthy sights or architecture, Galatas is a convenient stop for accessing all sort of conveniences including fresh milk, traditional bread, fresh -locally grown- fruit and vegetable, and the small ferries that will take you across to the island of Poros.

 

As a matter of fact, the island of Poros is made up of two islands, connected by a tiny bridge less than 10 meters long. The smallest of the two, named Sfyria, is home to the traditional amphitheatric town of Poros. Enjoy strolling through the cobblestoned streets flanked by whitewashed houses, savouring the fine smell of jasmine and the picture-like sea canal.

 

On Sfyria (Poros town) you will find several museums and art galleries, as well as countless traditional restaurants (tavernas) with tables right up to the water. Poros features one of the longest promenade walks in Greece and is a safe marina throughout the year, often used by circumnavigators to spend the winter until the next leg. And, even though it is not Mykonos or Ibiza, Poros has a number of cocktail bars where you can enjoy a drink or more by the sea.

 

 

The larger island is called Kalavria. It is sparsely populated, swarmed by evergreen pine trees and home to numerous beaches, including ones accessible only by boat (weather permitting, and if you ask us in a nice way J, we can take you there with our private sailing boat). On the easternmost edge of Kalavria lies a tiny island called Modi, an exceptional location for line and harpoon fishing.

 

 

Restaurants

We will write separate blog posts about our favourite restaurants and other places to visit. For now, we will mention “Apagkio” on Poros where you will find exceptionally fresh fish and Greek delicacies and “Babis” in Galatas with a delicious selection of home cooked meals that you will rarely find in restaurant menus.

When in restaurants or at shops, ask for bread and cheese from the village of Trachia, whose reputation for exceptional dairy and baked products is bigger than its tiny population up the mountain.

 

Activities

Swimming, snorkelling, fishing, sailing, hiking, cycling or just relaxing, our region has it all. We will write separate blog posts for each of them, so stay on the line. In the meantime we will mention our favourite beaches, such as “Aliki” on the mainland (about 15 minutes walk from our property) and “Askeli” on Poros island (15 minutes by boat or a 30 minute walk from the marina of Poros).

 

How to visit

There are not many places where an island comes so close to the mainland. Therefore, we enjoy daily (or more frequent) ferry connections from the Port of Piraeus without being constrained by the weather or ferry timetables, especially for those late night arrivals at the airport. As a matter of fact, the highway starting right outside the Athens International Airport will get you to us in 2,5 hours bypassing the metropolis of Athens.

 

Whether you are looking for a relaxing break with stunning views, a quiet location to work remotely from or inspiration from our lifestyle concept, we would love to have you visit us. We are located on the mainland’s side of Troizina, just 1,5 kilometres outside of town, keeping us close to the conveniences and the restaurants but far enough from the hum and drum of the streets and the bass of the nightclubs. We love the view we are blessed with and we are sure that you will enjoy it as much as we do.