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welcome to the island of Poros - GREECE |
Poros island is situated in the Saronic Gulf and lies close to the Peloponnesian GREECE mainland. This once busy tourist destination has declined in popularity with the cheap package tour operators due to the direct routes now available for flights to the regional airports. This in turn has allowed Poros island to return to its original typical Greek island way of life, where the tourist and visitor is again welcomed with open arms to join the islanders' relaxed and tranquil way of life. What makes Poros so different from other Greek islands is the lush native Pine Forest which still covers much of the island; the other islands by comparison are baron wildernesses. Also due to it's location visitors to island are not limited to endless days on the beach. Many tours visit the world renowned ancient sites of Epidavros, Mycenae, Argos, Nafplio and Olympia which are all available as easy day trips from the island (see Local Attractions). Athens, the capital of Greece with its modern and ancient attractions is also easily reached as a day trip from Poros island. If that is not enough you can also do your bit of island hopping and visit the islands of Hydra, Spetses and Aegina. |
Poros island is serviced by both sea and road routes from Athens. By sea (from the port of Piereas you can reach the island in little over an hour using the fast flying dolphin & catamaran services, alternatively driving from Athens to the coastal town of Galatas (where car ferries service the island every 30 minutes) can be achieved in 2 1/2 hours. Galatas is the sistertown of Poros. They have thier own mayor and their own council. Galatas is developing its character and is being more and more independent of Poros. Galatas has a nice waterfront where you can sit down and eat or have something to drink. There are many cafιs, bars and restaurants, and a nice view over Poros. In Galatas they say that "the best with Poros is the beautiful view". Specially at nighttime with all the lamps, and the lights from Poros reflecting in the sea. In Galatas everything is a little cheaper than on Poros. They have not developed the tourism as much as Poros has. Here the time stands still. It is more genuine Greek. You go to the market and buy your vegetables, you go to the bakery in the morning and buy your breakfast bread, baked in the old fashion way. The people lives on growing olives and citrusfruits. Many foreign labour is working on the farms. There are a few small industries In truth Poros island is not known for its coral white sand beaches, rimmed with palm trees. The fact is Poros is sheltered from rough seas and strong currents so there are in fact few areas of sandy beach. Palms grow here but not the coconut variety, instead native pine trees grow at the waters edge
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Poros has many small bays each with their own small beach. At Askeli the beach is long and popular (busy) in the summer months, it has many tavernas along its front where you can take a break from the the sun bathing and have a cool beer or meze. Here the beach is great for children, shallow clear waters. There is a large water sports activity center at the end of the beach, where you can try your skills at water skiing or take to the skies with a go at parasending. Beach volley ball is also popular here with a sectioned off area. Monastry beach is a little further along the coast and offers a quiet alternative to the busy Askeli beach, close to the Monastry of Zoodochos Pigi hence its name. The beach has its own little taverna for refreshments. This is as far as the local bus goes so getting to and from here without your own transport is easy. Canali beach is the closest to the main town of Poros. Again it is excellent for children being shallow and clear water. There are a few beach front tavernas here to choose from. To the east of Poros island are a range of beaches. First is Micro Neirio a small bay with it own beach cafe, nestled among the pine trees its a quieter beach than its big brother Neirio Bay a little further along the road. Neirio is perhaps the largest beach on Poros Island, it has many hotels, tavernas and restaurants to choose from. The beach is well looked after and popular with the locals. Here is a windsurfing and water skiing school, so plenty of activities along with sunbathing. Love bay, a very popular little bay. Although it does get very busy and water front space is limited. Pine trees also offer some relief from the sun when needed. Very clear water here. On this stretch of coast Russian Bay is the last beach. An old Russian Navy base gave the place its name (ruins of the buildings still remain) There is a small bar which hangs old parachutes up to offer its patrons a break from the sun. Very popular with yachts that moor here overnight, it is also possible to get a water taxi here from the main town just remember to arrange a pick up time! On the north of the island is Vagiona Bay. Its quite a trip here and you need to either have your own transport or take a taxi. The drive here is stunning and from above the bay is deep blue. The beach is somewhat stony and not ideal for children as the waters drop off quite deep from shore. It is however a great place to snorkel so remember to bring the equipment with you. There is a caravan where you can buy drinks. |
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