When you want to experience true Greek culture and the country’s natural beauty, you go to an island that Greeks themselves vacation on, Evia. Evia is the second largest island of Greece, and is connected to the mainland by 2 bridges that are commonly referred to as the “New Bridge” and the “Old Bridge.” The bridges traverse the narrow Euripus Strait, where at the island’s capital, Chalcis, is only 40 meters wide.
There is something for everyone to appreciate on this island and because of its proximity to Athens, Evia is a popular travel destination for inhabitants of Athens. Although it may be close to Athens, on Evia the rigorous pace of the mainland slows down considerably as one can walk the winding narrow roads of its small towns, feast on local cuisine, relax on one of many beautiful beaches, sail around its 48 km coastline, detox with the natural thermal springs or visit archeological sites dating back to the Paleolithic Era.
Nature and Beauty
There are many natural phenomenons on Evia. When you arrive at Chalkis, you can enjoy a coffee or meal at a cafeteria or restaurant on the banks of the Euripus Strait. Here you will bear witness to the extraordinary changes of tide that take place at this passage in the strait that has been observed since classical times.
Approximately every 6 hours the current changes directions, running like a river in one direction, and afterwards flowing equally as strong in the opposite direction.
Another sight to explore is the waterfalls at Drimonas. After a pleasant drive through forests and greenery in North Evia, the remote waterfalls at Drimonas appear. The river Sipias creates these breathtaking waterfalls that drop from a height of around 15 meters into a beautiful lake surrounded by natural cliffs and forest filled with black pines.
Explore Evia’s Archaeological Ruins
There are many archaeological sites on Evia that been found in Lefkanti, Vasiliko, Manika, Chalcis, Oreoi and Aliveri. Even though Evia was bombarded by the Germans during the Second World War, many ruins, tombs and art have been preserved and restored. Also worth visiting is Chalcis’s Archaeological Museum exhibiting findings from all over Evia from the Palaeolithic age until the late Roman period.
Evia’s Thermal Waters to Historical Attractions: Where to Stay
Therapeutic natural thermal waters are located throughout Evia making it a destination for individuals looking to relax and improve their overall health. The Thermae Sylla Spa Wellness Hotel, located in North Evia, has designed a business around their clients, focusing on wellbeing and healing by offering a holistic concept for families and individuals alike. They offer a full service spa center with thermal springs, wellness treatments, medical spa treatments and natural products. They have more information about their hotel and programs on their website: http://www.thermaesylla.gr/en/
If you plan to stay in Chalcis, The Lucy hotel offers modern accommodations and is located on the Euripus Strait. Here you will have access to the history and culture of Chalcis at your fingertips since The Lucy Hotel is in approximation to attractions such as the Karababas Castle, Agia Paraskevi Byzantine Church, Emir Zade Mosque, and the Roman Aqueduct to name a few. They also offer a Wellness Center with individualized programs for their clients. Their website has further information: http://www.lucy-hotel.gr/en/
Evia is a natural beauty that offers the perfect escape from the louder, more crowded islands with its culture, history and many activities.
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