Excursion to Lake Vouliagmeni and the Heraion of Perachora

At a short distance from Loutraki, which is renowned for its healing and natural mineral waters, you will encounter the cape of Heraion of Perachora also known as Melagkavi. The cape stands alongside of the largest lighthouse of the Corinthian Bay. Important relics of the early Corinthian Civilization have been discovered in the area. The sanctuary of goddess Hera, located at the depth of the harbour, near the rocks on which the current lighthouse is built, was of great importance in its time. Visit the archaeological site of Heraion and see up close; the Temple of Hera located in the harbour beneath the Melagkavi lighthouse, relics dating back to antiquity such as an L-shaped stoa (freestanding colonnade or covered walkway), a large cistern, dining halls as well as a second smaller temple. The relics found in the area demonstrate its importance during the pre Roman Age.

The view from Heraion of the southern coast of the Corinthian Gulf, the mountains that stand imposingly in the landscape are simply breathtaking while the sunset is mesmerising. The fish restaurants on Lake Vouliagmeni will treat you to a feast; fresh fish and local seafood delicacies will fulfill your tastebuds needs.

Perachora Village (holds on to its ancient name) may serve as an ideal starting point for daily trips to the wonderful beaches of Mikri and Megali Mylokopi (named after the large quantity of grinding stones found here). It is renowned for scuba diving as it combines shallow, deep, steep and adventurous waters. The port of Mylokopi is a safe haven and within a stone’s throw away don’t miss the chance to take a dive and snap some fantastic underwater pictures of the colourful seabed. Equally impressive are the beaches of Sterna, Skalosia and Stravon.


During your excursion don’t miss:

• the Akra Melagkavi Lighthouse, which reveals the area’s mystic charm. The lighthouse was first lit in 1897 and since has been standing at the north entrance of the Corinthian Bay keeping an eye on the sailors.
• Loutraki renowned for its thermal springs famous since Antiquity, when the city was called Thermai, in honor of Thermia Artemis. The region is also visited for its Casino and appreciated for its natural mineral waters.
• cross the Isthmus Canal (Corinth Canal) and see the Ancient Diolkos in Poseidonia.
• the Isthmia archaeological site, where the Isthmian Games were held during Antiquity and the Archaeological Museum of Isthmia. As you have reached the Saronic Gulf there are numerous swimming options. The beaches here are wonderful so try one of the following: Kryfi, Aphroditi, Kechries or Loutra Agias Elenis.