Often overlooked by holidaymakers seeking an authentic Greek experience, the Saronic Islands deserve their moment in the spotlight. Boasting the quintessential Greek combination of dazzling blue sea, skies and vivid green pine tree-covered hillsides, Spetses is one of the best-kept Saronic secrets (until now). Wealthy Greeks have been frequenting their villas on the idyllic isle for years, parking their superyachts offshore for the season; come September, the millionaires have left, and the island reverts to its charming normality. From important historical sites to quaint towns and stunning beaches, we’ve rounded up the best reasons to visit Spetses…
1. Elegant accommodation
2. Historic sites
3. The charming town
4. Glorious beaches
5. Easily accessible
Elegant accommodation
First up on our list of reasons to visit Spetses is for its array of elegant accommodation options. The luxurious choice would be the grand Belle Époque Poseidonion Grand Hotel which sits centre stage on the waterfront. For old-school elegance, there is little to beat here, with its striking baroque roofline and wonderful terrace that has been the venue for virtually every important business or political deal in Greece’s recent (and, at times, turbulent) past. More affordable (but no less wonderful) options include the charming Twin House Hotel, and for a boutique affair, stay at the chic, wellness-focused Yayaki Hotel.
Historic sites
Unsurprisingly, as the first island to raise the flag of independence during the 1821 Greek War of Independence, Spetses isn’t short of fascinating historical sites to visit. These include the House of Bouboulina—a heroine of the 1821 war—which is now a museum full of intriguing artefacts. You’ll also find a statue of Bouboulina in the main town square. Spetses Cathedral is notable as the site where the flag was first raised in April 1821, while the island’s whitewashed Baltiza Lighthouse is the oldest in Greece. Spetses’ interior is peppered with ancient Byzantine bridges and old churches, while its naval history is evident in its grand architecture. Hop on a bike and cycle your way through the island’s rich history.
The charming town
Another reason to visit Spetses is for the beautiful town itself. Hugging the waterfront in either direction, it’s an alluring warren of alleyways full of lovely boutique shops, tavernas and white-painted merchant houses with blue shutters. Wander the lanes of the old and new harbours, where mansions' high walls fuse together to form a fortress intended to repel invading forces in centuries gone by. Head inland and up the hill behind the town to explore isolated churches hinting at the island's complex past, from squat Byzantine basilicas to elaborate Venetian-style facades and campaniles. Another Italian habit the Venetians left behind is the passeggiata, a leisurely stroll undertaken every evening, just as they do in Capri…
Glorious beaches
Undoubtedly, one of the best reasons to visit Spetses is its beautiful beaches (a given on any Greek island). If you fancy a refreshing dip in the Myortan Sea, we recommend heading to the local's favourite, the pine-fringed Vrelos, or the secluded pebbled beauty, Xilokeriza Beach. Other gorgeous swimming spots include Zogeria, Agioi Anargyroi and Agia Paraskevi. After immersing yourself in the crystalline water, head to an authentic Greek taverna for some fresh grilled seafood. Take in the stunning coastal scenery and look out for the odd traditional caique (fishing boat) bobbing past.
Easily accessible
Last up on our list of reasons to visit Spetses? It’s one of the most easily accessible Greek islands. Forget domestic flights and ten-hour ferry rides. Instead, hop on a quick flight from the UK to the Greek capital, Athens, and all that’s left to do is catch a two-hour ferry from Piraeus port. Once you’ve disembarked, you’ll find that the island is, for the most part, car-free. Horse-drawn carriages and water taxis are the main modes of transport, adding to Spetses’ quaint charm. En route, ferries here usually stop at other islands, Hydra and Poros, so why not extend your trip with a spot of Saronic island-hopping?
Written by Hannah Whitehall
