All you need to know about Poros island!
The stunning island of Poros is located just one hour from Pireaus Port by Ferry. This tranquil, forested island is popular for ‘weekend getaways’ due to its close proximity to the mainland. It boasts exotic beaches, charming fishing villages, and verdant hilltops.
Background
According to Mythology, Poros is said to be the scene of a romantic tragedy. When the Cretan King Minos was fighting the city of Megara, the daughter of the besieged city, Scylla, fell in love with the Cretan King. To show her love, she cut off a lock of her father’s hair; the source of his immortality stole the keys to the city’s gates and gave them both to King Minos. After the King had successfully seized the city, he rejected Scylla and prepared to return to Crete. In her desperation, Scylla jumped into the sea and swam frantically behind the King’s ship. She eventually drowned of exhaustion and the area where she died was named after her. The location of her death is still today named Cape Scylla. Poros was also the setting of the Mythological legend of Theseus, the son of Poseidon. Theseus was the hero that killed the Minotaur of Crete. A temple was built in his honor which is now one of the island’s landmarks, the Temple of Poseidon.
Other landmarks of the island include:
The Monastery of Zoodochos Pighi: 4km east of Chora stands the magnificent Monastery of Zoodochos Pighi. The monastery was founded by the Archbishop of Athens, Lakovos the second, in the early 18th century. The monastery holds the tombs of famous Greek fighters of the Revolution and is dedicated to the Virgin Mary.
The Archaeological Museum: The museum is located close to the port in the town of Korea. It exhibits findings from the Temple of Poseidon and neighboring areas of the Peloponnese.
Russian Dockyard: This historical symbol of the Greek-Russian military cooperation in the 18th and 19th centuries is located in Calabria.
Lemon Forest: In Galatas visitors will find the only lemon forest in the whole of Greece. Watermills and quaint little houses add to the charm of the area.
The Clock Tower: Built-in 1927, this striking clock tower, painted in the traditional Greek colors of blue and white, offers breathtaking sea views.
Chapel of Panagia: At the end of Askeli beach stands the charming little chapel dedicated to the Virgin Mary.
Beaches
The majority of the island’s beaches are organized and provide: seafront tavernas, beachside restaurants and bars, shops, supermarkets, and watersport centers. The most famous beaches are Love Bay and Askeli due to their tropical vibe, although most of the bays boast similar fine sands, crystalline waters, and lush surroundings.
Love Bay: 4km northwest of Poros town. It has fine sand beaches, white pebbles, and emerald waters. The beach is engulfed by dense greenery and fragrant pine trees. There is a camping site nestled in the foliage.
Askeli: 3km northeast of Poros town. It has blonde sands and deep azure waters. This is the longest and largest beach on the island and is therefore very popular. A volleyball court is situated on the beach and an array of tourist facilities are found in Aslkeli town.
Megalo Neorio: 3km northwest of Poros town. The beach has blonde sands and glassy waters surrounded by verdant hilltops. Watersport centers and amenities are available.
Mikro Neorio: 2km northwest of Poros town. This beach has golden sand and azure waters. This is a long bay shaded by beautiful pine trees. An array of water sports are available here as well as a supermarket, shops, and restaurants.
Monastiri: 5km northeast of Poros town. The beach has golden sands, pebbles, and clear waters. This is a small and quiet bay known for its scenic backdrop of lush blanketed hilltops.
Russian Bay: This beach is directly opposite the landmark of the Russian Dockyard. It is a tiny white sand beach with turquoise waters. The surroundings give a feeling of protection and have a striking visual effect.
Kanali: 2km north of Poros town. The beach has fine blonde sands and crystalline waters upon a scenic backdrop. There is a fantastic fish taverna on the seafront.
Panagitsa: 4km north of Poros town. This bay has stretches of blonde sand, pebbled seashores, dense vegetation and a seaside chapel. The atmosphere is very serene. Hiking, swimming and beach walks are perfect here.
Vayionia: 8km of Poros town. This is a sand and pebbled cove with deep azure waters. Ruins of an ancient city lie underwater just a few meters from the shoreline. Fragrant citrus trees and vegetation fill the area. It is a perfect spot for snorkeling. A canteen offers snacks and cold drinks throughout the day.
Local cuisine
Local products of the island include: Amigdalota- almond cookies, olive oil, citrus fruits and wine. Speciality dishes include: lobster pasta, spaghetti al pesto with octopus, anchovies with vinegar and chicken with pasta.
Notable events and festivals
The biggest events on the island are:The celebration of the Monastery of Zoodochos Pighi: Celebrated on the first Friday after Easter. This religious celebration attracts many visitors and is followed by a Panigiri which consists of: chanting, praying, music, plenty of food, local wine and traditional dancing.
Nautical week: Every other year in early July, Nautical week takes place on the island. Sailing exhibitions, music concerts, artistic events and theatrical shows are presented throughout the week.
International Piano Festival: This yearly festival attracts pianists from all over the world. The festival’s aim is to promote music and discover new talents. It was founded in 2009 and takes place at the end of August.
