Epidaurus is a short distance excursion that it has everything: the experience of the theatre, beautiful paths, blooming courtyards and dives with history. From risky sports to gastronomic tourism, visits to monasteries and short road trips Argolis has countless worth visiting places.
We have picked the best suggestions for you so you can make your holiday plan easier!
Historical Monuments
Asklepieion Epidaurus / Small Ancient Theater of Epidaurus, 15km – 2 km Mycenae / Argos / Ancient Tirynos 60 km
Nafplio / Archaeological Museum 40 km
Ancient Corinth 55km
Ancient Nemea 60 km
Olympia / Temple of Epikouriou Apollo 235 km
Mystras 250 km
Dimitsana – Stemnitsa 180 km
Byzantine Monuments of Epidaurus 7km
Epidaurus took its name from Epidaurus, son of Argos and Evandi, who was the third ruler in turn.
Since ancient times they arrived at the port of Ancient Epidaurus, visitors from all the parties of the world to find treatment at the sanctuary of Asclepius.
At the same time, trade and arts were particularly developed, and for this period, Epidaurus has been one of the most important cultural and trade centers in Greece.
The findings of the excavations both in the surrounding area and in Epidaurus demonstrate the existence of life since 3rd millennium BC.
The official sanctuary of Ancient Epidaurus was the sanctuary of Asklepieion, which was the largest and most famous in all ancient Greece. The sanctuary of Asklepieion experienced a great boom until the early years of the Roman occupation, to definitively abandoned 426 AD.
Athens & Epidaurus Festival
In the ancient theater of Asklepieion Epidaurus, after the first show in 1938 (Sophocles Electra) and the establishment of the Festival in 1954, festival named “Epidavria” revive continuously every year. Here you can find more information about festival’s program.
The Epidaurus Festival, or “Epidauria”, is an ancient drama festival that takes place every year during the summer months in the Ancient Theater of Epidaurus within the Athens Festival. It was officially inaugurated in 1955 with Hecuba of Euripides. It was established with the ancient tragedy plays and little later, in 1957 also with the ancient comedy plays of the National Theater.
Along with the Epidaurus Festival (initially only musical and later and theatrical) performances are also take place in the small theater of ancient Epidaurus. The institution launched a trial in 1995 with “Music July” which had a great success and helped Epidavria to be established.
Agrotourism
The Municipality of Epidaurus in cooperation with the Ministry of Rural Development and local producers wanting to highlight the traditional products of the Argolis Earth and other regions of Greece, organize an outdoor market that brings the visitor in contact with producers avoiding the mediums. Here you will have the chance to try local wine, traditional sweets and honey, cheese products and pasta, buy handmade jewelry and unique art objects and be informed about agrotourism programs.
Nature
The land of Epidaurus, between the Saronic and Argolic Gulf, is a blessed place with natural beauties and an important historical past.
Harvesting Olive Trees
Agro tourism is a mild form of tourism and rural development. It brings city dwellers in the environment of the village and rural life and gives them an “opportunity” to integrate with local conditions. The tourist is a visitor, a friend and admirer of the place. He/she is a traveller who seeks the secrets of a place in its authenticity and beauty, in quiet life and natural heritage, and in all those unique and distinctive features the place has to offer. This is why we bring visitors closer to nature, to the cultivation of land, collection of fruits and all those activities which inspire them, traditionally and ecologically.
This is a unique chance to discover a genuine and authentic place and live some intimate moments interwoven with experiential knowledge. For more information on the harvesting of olive oil, you can search “MELASE EPIDAURUS OLIVE OIL DOMAIN” as well as the “Bekas Olive Oil”.
Epidaurus Nightlife
The villages around the archaeological site of Epidaurus provide many nice options to spend a night out. The village of Ancient (Palea) Epidaurus is a picturesque place to enjoy a long dinner in the taverns at the port and a nice drink in the few lounge cafes. Outside the village, there are also a couple of clubs that stay open all night. Such taverns and cafeterias for a lounge evening are also found in the close villages, including Ligourio. For a more vivid nightlife, you can go to Nafplion or Tolo, about an hour drive away, with more tourists and all-night parties.
Nafplio
Nafplio is a city that brims with life, preserving its legends and enticing you into its mystical ambience. It was the Venetians’ ‘Naples of the East’ and the first capital of Greece. Viewed from above, Nafplio oozes romance: tile roofs, grand homes and a blue-green sea. The famous Bourtzi, Akronafplia and Palamidi castle add a sense of drama to this stunning seaport town, consisting of fortresses, neoclassical buildings, old neighborhoods, wide sidewalks and large public squares. Just 38 kilometers from Old Epidaurus and “Saronis Hotel”, Nafplion is an excursion you should not skip.
Mycenae
The archeological site of Mycenae is fairly considered to be one of the most significant historical monuments of Greek civilization, approved so by the great number of visitors coming from even the most remote parts of the world. The city of Mycenae is one of the most ancient cities of the Argolida Prefecture, the kingdom of the mighty king Agamemnon, the most historically significant and wealthiest kingdom of the Late Bronze Era in Greece. Within 56 kilometers from Old Epidaurus, Mycenae is an excellent day trip that will be unforgettable to you.
Methana
Just 45 minutes from Old Epidaurus, the peninsula of Methana with its two steep volcanic slopes is actually a volcano that emerged from the sea! Welcome the opportunity to explore a stunning volcanic landscape with dense vegetation, coastal villages and diverse flora and fauna. The establishment of the spa complex in 1870 made it a popular spa town attracting mainly senior citizens from many European countries. The mountain, on the inactive volcano side, has delineated routes that will reward you.
Porto Heli
This cosmopolitan place in the Peloponnese has it all. Beautiful beaches, Mediterranean landscapes, attractive summer villas and yacht marinas. The island of Spetses is right across Porto Heli while the narrow straits, fresh fish and a lively nightlife are some of the highlights. Porto Heli and Ermioni are a famous destination for the cognoscenti.
Galatas
Galatas is a seaside, beautiful and picturesque town of the Eastern Peloponnese, in the Argosaronic Gulf that combines perfectly the mountain with the sea. It is located 165 km from Athens and 38 km from Old Epidaurus. Just opposite is the island of Poros.
Galatas still retains its traditional color and because of its location is an ideal choice for small escapes, both towards the northern coast and the mountainous hinterland of the area and to the south coast of Trizinia, throughout the year.
Poros
The town of Poros is built in the shape of an amphitheatre over two hills. In antiquity Poros consisted in fact of two islands, Spheria and Kalavria, but the last explosion of the Methana volcano in 273 BC radically changed the morphology of the area.
Lush pine trees vegetation, crystal clear beaches, a lively waterfront adorned with shops, cosy cafes and restaurants, a picturesque capital (it has been declared protected settlement) with grand traditional mansions and picturesque cobbled streets, as well as a wide selection of entertainment venues are the ingredients of this quiet, yet cosmopolitan, destination that attracts visitors from all age groups.
Hydra
Hydra is located in the Aegean Sea, somewhere between the Argolic and the Saronic Gulf. It is actually one of the very few islands that are so close to Peloponnese and Athens.
Lavish stone mansions owned by important families (Voulgaris, Kountouriotis, Tombazis, Kriezis, Bountouris etc), and built by Italian artisans reveal the wealth that experienced the island in the past. Today most of these mansions house the island’s museums. 300 churches and 6 monasteries spread around the island as well as the cannons and the statues of the Independence War heroes still standing at the balconies of the islands create a romantic mosaic.
As you walk along the waterfront, the heart of the town, you encounter monuments, churches, canons, museums, old mansions, statues of famous heroes, the old gunpowder store, shops and cafes, while picturesque winding streets lead you to neighborhoods located at the upper part of the town, as well as to the old neighborhood of Kiafas.
Hydra is also a yachting paradise, as every summer groups of sailing boats moor at the harbour, where they are joined by dozens of sensational motorboats and yachts.
Spetses
Spetses, an island boasting a long naval tradition, is famous for its significant contribution to the 1821 War of Independence. It was here that the revolution flag was raised on 3rd April 1821. The island has managed to retain its individual traditional character thanks to its well-preserved grand captain mansions, still bearing eloquent witness to the island’s glorious past. The picturesque old harbor and Dápia, a tourist and commercial centre where the heart of the island’s entertainment beats, are the trademarks of the town of Spetses.
Beside Spetses’ beauties, Armata (the celebration of the Spetses Naval anniversary) every September, the Spetses Mini Marathon, the Spetsathlon as well as the International Classic Yacht Regatta (Spetses Classic Yacht Regatta) will be some of the reasons to visit the island each year.
Athens / Museums Athens: The city that gave birth to democracy, science and good arts.
Athens of History and Ancient Culture – Parthenon, Acropolis, Ancient Market and at the same time a modern metropolis, a capital living, open, full of energy, which is “glad” generously.
Athens is a city belonging to humanity and its Mediterranean light.
Starting in the morning with your car from Epidaurus, you reach Athens in about 1 and 30 minutes.
Acropolis Museum: The Acropolis Museum, from the most important of the world, exhibits archaeological findings exclusively from the Athenian Acropolis and its hills.
National Archaeological Museum: The National Archaeological Museum is the largest museum of Greece and one of the most important of the world. With an initial purpose to store all the findings from the 19th century excavations, mainly from Attica but also from other parts of the country, gradually took the form of a central National Archaeological Museum and was enriched by findings from all the points of the Greek world. Its rich collections, which number more than 11,000 exhibits, offer the visitor a panorama of ancient Greek culture from the prehistory times to late antiquity.
Nemea-Ancient Nemea
At the foot of Arcadian Mountains is Ancient Nemea. After excavations in the years 1974-1981 from the American School of Study, the Stadium of Nemea came to light. At this stadium staged the Nemeas, a sporting event that along with Olympia, Isthmia and Pythia, were the most important sports events in Ancient Greece.
In the archaeological site there are also ruins of baths and homes. Inside the archaeological site is the Archaeological Museum of Nemea.
Nemea, today is also known for the production of high quality wines. Vineyards blooms in the area and more and more are guests who take part in tasting events and not only.
Vineyards and Nemea wineries
Nemea, the historic city of Antiquity, which is reasonably characterized “Greek Tuscany”, is located between mountains that surround it and almost hide it. The famous Nemea offers the visitor a unique landscape and gives the impression of a complicated mosaic, not monotonous and architecturally identical as it happens in Vineyards of North Europe.
Nemea’s wines, the wineries and the beautiful vineyards combined with the historical monuments of the region and the small scattered settlements, are a splendid option for a nearby escape at this fascinating destination.
Olympia
In western Peloponnese, in the so-called “valley of the gods”, Ancient Olympia grew to be the most celebrated sacred site of Ancient Greece, and the birthplace of the Olympic Games, the most important sports events in all antiquity: starting from 776 B.C., all Greeks – across the then known world – would be united every four years and all hostilities would be suspended so that everyone could take part in these games in the true spirit of sportsmanship. Olympia is now, as it used to be in the past, a famed destination, a powerful landmark known the world over. Visit the Archaeological Museum of Olympia and see the ancient exhibits up close, the most important ones being the celebrated statue of Hermes by Praxiteles; Nike (Victory) by Paionios, a plastic arts masterpiece; and the sculptures that used to decorate the Temple of Zeus, considered among the greatest ancient Greek Art creations.
Mystras
Mystras in Greece is an archaeological site close to Sparti, in the region of Laconia. The Castle Town of Mystras was very strong in the Byzantine times and actually in the last decades of the Byzantine period, this was the second most important town after Constantinople. On top of the castle hill, there was the Palace of the Despots, while Mystras Greece is mostly famous for its several Byzantine churches with the interesting architecture and the valuable frescoes. Below the Medieval Castle, a new village has been constructed, where many traditional accommodations are found. The region around is crossed by many trekking paths, leading to beautiful spots.
The Rack Railway
The Diakopto – Kalavryta Rack Railway is a tourist attraction. It’s a train that can reach high altitudes and operate on steep grades, through territories of unique interest and spectacular views.
With an unparalleled journey that lasts for about one hour and starts from Diakopto, the rack railway runs through the gorge of Vouraikos and the village of Zachlorou, ending up in Kalavryta. The train covers the 22 kilometer journey traveling at a speed of 30-40km/h when moving along the regular rack and 6-15km/h when moving along the toothed racks.
An unforgettable journey through the evergreen and incredibly beautiful nature of the Vouraikos Gorge and Kalavryta!
The Theatre of Ancient Epidaurus
The Ancient Theatre of Epidaurus is regarded as the best preserved ancient theatre in Greece in terms of its perfect acoustics and fine structure. It was constructed in the late 4th century BC and it was finalized in two stages. Originally the theatre had 34 rows of seats divided into 34 blocks by stairs and walkways.
The theatre is surrounded by lush greenery, an integral part of the theatre itself. This famous ancient theatre distinguishes for its architectural symmetry and the great acoustics.
Due to its incomparable acoustics, the actors can be perfectly heard by all 15,000 spectators, as you can even hear the sound of a pin dropping. It is known from the antiquity until the present days for its size, the unique architecture and harmonious proportions.
The famous Epidavria Festival, presently Athens Epidaurus Festival, begun in1954 and it is held every summer with famous ancient dramas or modern plays. Over the years, the festival has hosted both Greek and foreign artists.
The Little Theatre of Ancient Epidaurus
The Little Theatre of Epidaurus is placed in an area called Nisi, near the port of Palea Epidaurus. It used to be the theatre of the ancient city-state and, apart from drama performances, it also hosted religious and political celebrations. This theatre was discovered in the early 1970s, under a field of olive trees and its restoration process continues till today.
After several excavations and much restoration work performed over the last decades, the Epidaurus Little Theatre hosts today the annual Greek Festival, celebrated in summer with music, dance and theatre performances. There are seats for 800 spectators and work is done to restore more of them. The performances are mostly held in modern or ancient Greek.
Epidaurus Sanctuary Of Asklepios
The sanctuary of Asclepius or Asklepieion as it is called, in Epidaurus was a sacred healing place devoted to Asklepius, the healer god, the god who had the power to cure people of their pain and illness. Such sanctuaries were frequent in ancient Greece and in fact, they were quite popular as people from all over the Mediterranean would come to find healing.
Epidaurus Archaeological Museum
The Archaeological Museum of Epidaurus is located inside the archaeological site, between the Ancient Theatre and the Asklepieion. Established in 1897, the museum was important to store and exhibit the findings of the long excavation on the sanctuary of Asklepios (1881-1928), which were supervised by the archaeologist Panagis Kavvadias.
These rooms host exhibits from the Archaic till the Roman times, including parts of temples and sanctuaries, the Propylaea of the Ancient Theatre, the Tholos of Epidaurus, Classical and Roman statues, epigraphs, small statuettes, medical tools, coins, and others.
Byzantine monuments in Ligourio
The church of Agios Ioannis Eleimonas, a typical sample of the so called Helladic School of Byzantine architecture, is quite an exquisite temple of the 12th century, recently restored (2011-2012).
The Church of the Assumption of Mary (Panagitsa), a significant edifice of the second Venetian domination period (1685-1715), is a Post-Byzantine temple richly illustrated with interesting murals. Saint John the Theologian is another picturesque temple between Ligourio and Palaia Epidaurus. It’s a temple of Byzantine art, of the cross-in-square type with dome, which took its current form from 1683 to 1715. According to local residents’ testimonies, in the previous century it was the catholicon (primary church) of a small monastery.
Agia Marina, on the northwest of Ligourio, at the foot of Mount Arachnaio, is a Post-Byzantine temple with hagiographies (religious paintings), and, according to the inscription on its templon, it was completed in 1713.
Natural History Museum of Kotsiomitis
The Natural History Museum of Kotsiomitis is located in Ligourio, Argolida, 5km from the Ancient Theatre of Epidaurus. It exhibits 6.000 articles, out of the 22.000 articles it possesses, mostly minerals and fossils. An impressive exhibit is the collection of hand-made geologic maps. Its collections are considered unique throughout Greece and of the richest ones in Europe. Some of its exhibits are not to be found anywhere else in the world.
A visitor to the museum will find fossils of 3.000.000 to 530.000.000 years old, from Greece and other parts of the world.
Monastery in Kalami
Near Ancient Epidaurus and specifically between the villages of Adami and Koliaki, is an old monastery with the name Kalami. The monastery is marvelously surrounded by beautiful mountain vegetation. The Monastery was founded in the early years of the 17th century but it seems that it existed long before monasticism in isolated hermits. In the 1970 the monastery was reestablished after the establishment of women s fraternity (1972) in place of the old male monastery.
Monastery of Pammegistoi Taxiarches (Archangels)
The monastery of Pammegistoi Taxiarches, built in the 15th century by monks of the Kalami monastery, is located between the villages of New Epidaurus and Dimaina, on the old national road that leads to the village Ligourio. The monastery was a spiritual center during the Turkish domination and during the first period of the newly established Greek state, contributing to the preservation of the language and the religion. Since 1945 it was inhabited by nuns and a new bigger church was constructed replacing the old destroyed one. The church was built in Byzantine style, it is a cross-in-square type with dome and it is adorned with beautiful frescos from Mount Athos. Holy relics and old icons are kept in its interior.
The monastery of Agnountos in Epidaurus:
The Monastery of Agnountos is a beautiful monument of Byzantine Art and local architecture, which evokes admiration to its visitors and its researchers. Built on the slope of a mountain, 7 kilometers away from Epidaurus, the monastery greets visitors with beautiful olive groves, rocky hills and mountains covered with green forests.
Although there is no evidence for its construction date, some graffiti made by monks have been found, dating back to 1029 A.C.
The church’s interiors are covered with beautiful wall paintings dating back to 1250. The iconostasis is wood-carved, of the most brilliant and popular art of that period. The beautiful golden-scarlet coloring has carved pictures of leaves, birds, fruits, and even branches. The engraved inscription informs about its creation in the year 1713.
Moni Avgou (Abbey of Egg)
Not far from the road that connects Ligourio and Kranidi, one can find the beautiful monastery built on the rocky slope of a mountain. Heading towards Trachia, you pass through the village of Pelei and you reach the end of the paved road. You continue on the dirt road leading to the monastery of ‘Moni tou Agiou Dimitriou Mirovliti’, Known as Moni Avgou.
This renowned monastery is one of the many Byzantine treasures of the area.
It is a small abandoned monastery, with a hermitage and a chapel, which was recently renovated. In a small cave in the eastern part of the rock, one can see the preserved Christian murals that, according to Sotirios Georgios, date back to the 11th century. This remarkable monastery is built into the steep rock where, when looking down, you can see the ravine leading to Iria and in good visibility you even have a view of the sea. There is still much speculation about the origin of the common name ‘Moni Avgou’, translated as ‘Abbey of the egg’. The most popular, yet romantic explanation lies in the tradition which tells the tale of the deeply felt faith for the unbreakable egg. Credible, however, is that the name is quite simply the result of the mountain, where the monastery is built into the rocks of the cliff. It is called Avgo mountain (Greek: το όρος Αυγό – Egg Mountain), and, in many local dialects, the word “avgo” means just “peak”.
Hiking, cycling, swimming, diving, Canoe – Kayak or just relaxation and sunbathing in one of the wonderful beaches of Epidaurus! These are some suggestions from us… you choose what suits you better!
Paragliding
Paragliding is a sport enjoyed by many. Paragliding in Epidavros is the perfect way and location for participating in this popular outdoor recreational hobby and competitive adventure sport of flying in the skies and soaring like a bird!
With its warm and dry summers and mild sea breezes, Epidavros offers endless opportunities for spectacular paragliding.
Diving – Snorkeling
Visiting Old Epidaurus will give you the chance to swim in crystal clear waters, visit historical masterpieces, dive into the old shipwreck and snorkel to explore the lost city that used to be the ‘agora of Old Epidaurus millenniums ago!
We encourage you to try diving and snorkeling as we are sure, that will get you familiarized with the ancient Greek culture, enjoy the beautiful seabed and of course it will be a great experience during your stay at “Saronis Hotel”.
Cycling
The rich natural diversity of Epidaurus is highly suitable for mountain and road biking. Exciting trails from rural roads to specially designed cycling routes are available in various parts of Argolis. One of the most beautiful routes starts from the ancient theater of Epidaurus with direction to Ligourio village. After five kilometers through olive groves and dirt paths, there is a one kilometer downhill to the main asphalt road. You will find the ancient path after cycling for ten minutes; an old stone inscription will help you find this spot!
It is a wonderful route for every season that offers panoramic views of Epidaurus.
Canoe-Kayak
A kayak tour in enchanting and wild landscapes, turquoise waters and isolated beaches is one of the many activities you can do during your stay at “Saronis Hotel”.
Combine sightseeing and sea kayaking by exploring top landmarks including the Small Ancient Theatre of Epidavros and the Ancient Sunken City, also known as Argolida’s Lost Atlantis. Next, discover the area’s beautiful coastline and wilderness with a scenic paddle to a quiet beach.
You will find several stores to rent your equipment in Ancient Epidaurus as well as professionals to help you enjoy a kayak ride.
ELLINIKI ETAIRIA – Society for the Environment and Cultural Heritage in collaboration with the Municipality of Epidaurus, is implementing the project “Paths of Culture”, which involves selecting and signposting a series of routes, offering visitors an opportunity to discover a beautiful landscape and explore the timeless Greek theatrical heritage.
1. Sanctuary of Asklepios (Circular Route)
5.8 km – 1 hour and 45 mins.
Circular route
Degree of difficulty: moderately easy (3/10)
Start: Liganopotamos (beginning of the dirt road to Aghia Anna).
See: The ancient cistern, the chapel of Aghia Anna, the Sanctuary of Apollon Maleatas, millennium-old olive trees and the unique Ancient Theatre of the Sanctuary of Asklepios.
2. Ligourio (Circular Route)
5.9 km. – 1 hour and 35 mins
Circular route
Degree of difficulty: easy (2/10)
Start: Church of Aghios Ioannis Eleimon (Byzantine church of 11th c. A.D.). Restored by Elliniki Etairia.
See: Byzantine and post-Byzantine churches, the ruins of the ancient “pyramid” (watch tower on the ancient road), the Natural History Museum, the picturesque little squares of “Pano Lygourio”.
3. Ancient Street Ligourio
5.6 km. – 1 hour and 40 mins
Degree of difficulty: moderately easy (4/10)
Start: Church of Aghios Ioannis Eleimon (Byzantine church of 11th c. A.D.)
See: The chapel of Aghios Georgios, the unique, still surviving ancient road of Epidaurus, the beautiful stream of Aghios Andreas.
NOTE: 3Α “Ancient Road – Sanctuary of Asklepios”
Alternatively, shortly after the middle of the trail (exit at a stream, 2,6 km from the start), the route continues to the Sanctuary of Asklepios, signposted 3A. (3,2 km / 1 hour, with the same degree of difficulty: 2/10 – easy).
4. Ligourio – Ancient Epidaurus
18.2 km. 1 hour and 30 mins
Degree of difficulty: moderately easy (3/10)
Start: Junction of the Ancient Theatre
See: The beautiful natural environment, a copy of the ancient direction sign at the entry to the ancient footpath, the famous “Minotis’ Bridge”, the church of Aghios Ioannis Theologos.
NOTE: 4Α “Minotis’ Bridge – Ancient (Old) Epidaurus”
Alternatively, at Minotis’ Bridge (8,44 km from the start), the route continues to the port of Ancient (Old) Epidaurus, signposted 4A (7,65 km / 45′, with the same degree of difficulty: 3/10 – moderately easy).
5. Arcadiko – Mycenaean Path
5.06 km. – 1 hour and 45 mins
Degree of difficulty: moderately easy (3/10)
Start: Church of Koimiseos Theotokou (Dormition of the Mother of God)
See: The ancient road towards Epidaurus with the oldest surviving bridges in Europe dating back to the Mycenaean era, the Acropolis of Kazarma, the ancient Mycenaean route, stunning views.
6. Arcadiko – Foniskou Castle
3.8 km. – 1 hour and 20 mins
Degree of difficulty: moderately easy (3/10)
Start: Church of Koimiseos Theotokou (Dormition of the Mother of God)
See: The church of Aghii Pantes (All Saints), Old Broutzeika (settlement of 1760), Kastro Foniskou (the castle of Foniskos), an outstanding view.
7. Ancient Epidaurus (Circular Route)
2.4 km. – 45 mins
Circular route
Degree of difficulty: easy (1/10)
Start: Port (in front of the football pitch).
See: The Theatre of the ancient city, the sunken roman villa, ruins of the ancient city, tombs of the Mycenaean era.
NOTE 1: 7Α “Nissi of Ancient (Old) Epidaurus”
Alternatively, next to the Theatre of Ancient Epidaurus (0,81 km from the start), the route crosses the small peninsula of the ancient city, signposted 7A (0.7 km / 15′, with the same degree of difficulty: 2/10 – easy).
NOTE 2: 7Β “The tomb of the Doctors – Sunken roman villa”
Alternatively, just before the tomb of the Doctors (1,13 km from the start), the route continues to the sunken roman villa, signposted 7B (0,9 km / 15′, with the same degree of difficulty: 1/10 – easy).
8. Ancient Epidaurus – Polemarha
8.9 km. Distance Time3 hours and 40 mins
Degree of difficulty: moderate (5/10)
Start: Port of Old Epidaurus (jetty)
See: The church of Aghios Nikolaos, Vaghionia beach, Kalamaki beach, Sarantakoupi beach, the Monastery of Panaghia Polemarcha.
Hiking on Mount Arachnaio
Arachnaio is a mountain of Argolis Prefecture with a higher point in 1.199 meters. It covers most of the central part of the prefecture. In the south, it joins the Mount Didimo (Twin), while in the north ends at the hills of the Eastern Prefecture of Korinthia. The mountain in the south is completely deforested, but on the north side there is still some pine forests suitable for hiking. At the foothills, Lygourio and Ancient Theater of Epidaurus is built, while Nafplio is located to its west.
Hiking on Mount Akros
Akros Mountain has an altitude of about 600 meters. It starts from the New Epidaurus and reaches up to the settlement of Ano Epidaurus. In addition to its dense vegetation, one can see lands with olive groves cultivated by village residents, but also large grasslands that allow livestock farming.
The Akros Mountain has the special privilege that gives excellent views from all of its ridge.
Gialasi is a pebbled beach with blue waters located on the south part of Palea Epidaurus village. Gialasi is one of the most popular beaches of Epidaurus. It is an organized beach with numerous amenities including sunbeds, umbrellas, water sport facilities, beach bars and taverns.
Kalamaki is a sandy and pebbled beach with emerald waters located on the bay of Palea Epidaurus village. It is a secluded beach ideal for those looking for tranquility and relaxation. Kalamaki is accessible on foot by following the path through the forest of Vagiona beach.
Nisi is a sandy and pebbled beach with blue waters located on the right side of the harbour at the peninsula of Epidaurus. It is a calm beach ideal for those looking for tranquility.
Panagitsa is a sandy and pebbled beach with emerald waters located on the south side of Palea Epidaurus village. It is a secluded beach ideal for those looking for tranquility and relaxation.
Polemarha is a sandy and pebbled beach with crystalline waters located close to Nea Epidaurus village. It is a secluded beach ideal for those looking for relaxation and tranquility. An off road vehicle is highly recommended.
Vagiona is a sandy and pebbled beach with emerald waters located behind the church of Agios Nikolaos in the village of Nea Epidaurus. It is a secluded beach ideal for those looking for tranquility and relaxation.
Aliotou is a pebbled beach with blue waters located close to the harbour of Nea Epidaurus village. It is one of the most popular beaches of Epidaurus. The marina on the side of the harbour is an ideal anchorage for boats and yachts.
Kondyli
Perhaps one of the most beautiful beaches in the whole region of Peloponnese, Kondyli stays calm most of the time with its crystal clear waters to welcome people of every age to enjoy summer time.
Having the Blue Flag for years, consider being a beach clean and safe for swimming, water sports and having fun for as long as the guests wish. Two canteens to the back will offer you all the necessary supplies in case you feel thirsty or hungry in the middle of the day and a club for some water sports remains open till late in the afternoon for those who like to try something new and fun.
Kandia
Kandia beach is pebbled and can have sand too in some spots. The seabed is mainly sandy. A suitable area for children and family lay in the sun and play safely. The beach is reachable by foot (if the place of residence is Iria village) or by car (if you choose to stay in Nafplio or other cities nearby).
Kandia is ideally located next to the village of Candia with lots of cafeterias, restaurants, rented deck chairs, and umbrellas and of course showers as well. There are some free parking areas around.
It is a long beach with clear waters and a beach for almost all the tastes. You can visit the spot where all the action happens or you can choose to relax and read your book and listen to the sound of the waves and wind blowing through the leaves.
Ippolitou 4, Ancient Epidaurus, Argolis
Tel: +302753041514, +302753041533
Fax: +302753041788
Mobile: +306972838596
Email: info@saronis-hotel.com