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, Sphería and Kalavria, but the last explosion of the Methana volcano in 273 BC radically changed the morphology of the area. Sphería was cut off from Methana, and in this way Poros took its present-day form. 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.
Peer into the history and tradition of the island through a visit to its Archaeological and its Folklore Museums. Visit also the Temple of Poseidon (built circa 520 BC; the Athenian rhetorician, Dimosthenes, committed suicide in this temple by drinking poison, pursued by Philip, the King of Macedonia); the Zoodohos Pigi Monastery –the most impressive ecclesiastical monument on the island; the Russian naval base and the Residence of Governor Kapodistrias. Follow a route through the narrow streets of the town that will lead you up to a hill, where the trademark of the island stands: the historic Clock tower, where you can relax and enjoy a panoramic view of the whole town.
Take the opportunity to stroll around the Lemon Forest, a verdant hill with more than 30,000 lemon and orange trees, located on the opposite situated coast of the Peloponnese, southeast of the town of Galatas. The boat trip will only take a few minutes. The view from the hilltop to the island of Poros is really stunning. Take your sailboat to discover the surrounding islets:
Bourtzi, home to the fortress of the Byzantine admiral Nasar; Modi, with its shipwreck from the Mycenaean period, and Daskaleio, with its chapel dedicated to Virgin Mary.
Poros is also famous for its beautiful beaches, stretching uninterrupted along the island’s coastline. Swim in the crystal clear waters of the long and sandy beach of Askeli; the hotels and bars situated here make it an interesting tourism resort with buzzing nightlife. Meyalo Neorio is a sandy beach where the pine trees sweep right down to the water’s edge. Bask in the turquoise blue waters of the “Love Bay”, a beach surrounded by verdant pine trees that literally dip their needles into the sea. Enjoy a unique natural shade!
