Poseidonion Grand Hotel Spetses

Poseidonion Grand Hotel, which first opened in 1914, was the brainchild of Sotirios Anargiros, a visionary benefactor who was responsible for much of Spetses’ development.

Furthermore, it represented the cosmopolitan face of the island and soon became one of its famous landmarks, a favourite destination for the high society, royalty and the wealthy Athenians.

Following a meticulous five-year restoration programme which has brought the hotel fully up to date with the finest facilities, fixtures, and fittings while carefully preserving the original architecture of the building, Poseidonion Grand Hotel, fully refurbished, re-opened its doors in the summer of 2009, ready to welcome new visitors.

The hotel comprises of two buildings with superior and deluxe rooms and suites, several with private gardens or balconies offering spectacular views of the Dapia Port area and the sparkling blue-turquoise Sea.

Situated in Spetses, a picturesque island, near Athens with rich naval history and lovely beaches, and what is more a destination for jet-setters all year long, Poseidonion Grand Hotel offers moments of luxury and relaxation!

THE ROYAL SUITE
A lavish and exclusive residence ideal for those who wish to be pampered like royalty. The ideal hideaway on the island for jet setters and VIPs as it offers an unforgettable experience.

250 sq.m. of pure luxury featuring a private lift access inside the residence, three bedrooms, each with en suite marbled bathrooms, a large living and dining area as well as a private terrace offering a breathtaking view of the island.

THE POOL SUITE
A spacious suite that gives the sense of an elegant Spetses house, featuring one bedroom with two en suite marbled bathrooms, a separate living and dining area plus a private garden with a spacious pool.

LA CUPOLA SUITE
Poseidonion Grand Hotel’s distinctive historic dome built on two levels. The impressive wooden ceiling resembles a traditional Greek boat (kaiki), with a special sky window at the top. It features a private massage loft as well as a spacious private roof terrace with a panoramic view of Spetses town.

DELUXE SIDE SEA VIEW 
Elegantly appointed deluxe rooms that combine the eclectic architectural style of Belle Époque with the high standards of a five star luxury hotel. They have their own balcony offering beautiful, relaxing side sea views from the new building of the hotel, situated behind the main pool.

SUPERIOR GARDEN VIEW
Spacious rooms featuring open plan style bedrooms with a sitting area, leading to a private garden or balcony with a view of the main pool and the surrounding Mediterranean garden.

THE PINE ESTATE
The Pine Estate -a new addition to the Poseidonion Grand Hotel family- is a breathtaking property with boundless beauty and seclusion only achievable through the voice of nature, in a private space that seems limitless.

It’s set on a forested cape at the crest of the island, providing visitors the feeling that they are at the land’s end. Total autonomy is a gift in 6 acres of grounds, so spacious that they feel endless, in a microcosm that seems separate from the island of Spetses.

Here, the olive trees glisten in the sunlight, among pines, palms, cypresses, native aromatics and eye-catching rock formations. Every spot is a new 360° panorama as the sea is the protagonist from dawn till dusk.

The views of Spetses, the Agia Marina bay, the islets of Spetsopoula, Trikeri and Agios Ioannis, even Hydra island in the background, unfold from around this secluded cape.

A short stroll down the property’s footpath leads to a private beach, and guests can embark from here on a voyage to explore the coastline of the island. In addition, the traditional Agia Marina Chapel, which is attached to the property is ideal for a private mass.

ON THE VERANDAH
Enjoy exceptional fine dining at On the Verandah, the multiple award-winning restaurant of the Poseidonion Grand Hotel. Our Executive Chef, Theologos Amiras, our Head Chef Panagiotis Boufis and their talented team of creative culinary professionals craft contemporary Greek dishes infused with local gastronomic traditions and the finest fresh ingredients.

Encounter classic seafront dining steeped in old world grace, with soft lighting and sunset views complementing the refined cuisine. A perfect blend of food and setting, dinner at On the Verandah is a once-in-a-lifetime dining experience, initiating a shared journey of gastronomic discovery.

LIBRARY BRASSERIE
The Library Brasserie is the perfect choice for relaxing throughout the day, and serves a range of light meals, snacks and desserts. From coffee to cocktails, the Library Brasserie offers elegant, all-day dining options.

Take a seat on the sunny outside terrace or seek refuge in the embrace of a plush armchair indoors before choosing from a menu of late breakfasts, light lunches and sweet desserts. Fresh ingredients from the Bostani Organic Farm are transformed through contemporary techniques into welcoming dishes.

BOSTANI FARM-TO-TABLE
Visit the Bostani Organic Farm, where top quality produce for the hotel and local restaurants is freshly sourced every day. The underlying philosophy of all gastronomy at the Poseidonion Grand Hotel is based on the authentic flavours of the fruits and vegetables grown at our organic Bostani farm in the hills of Spetses.

Discover your next gastronomic experience at the “Bostani”. It is at the table of our organic farm-to-table restaurant where the Poseidonion Grand Hotel’s genuine love for Spetses and tradition truly meet.

The ingredients are handpicked straight from the earth and fresh dishes full of the aromas and flavours of the island are created. Guests are invited to take part in an al-fresco dining experience, immersing themselves in the culinary traditions of Greece in a unique outdoor setting.

Close your eyes and inhale the country air infused with the aroma of pines and wild herbs. Taste the almost imperceptible salt from the sea, carried inland on a light breeze.

This is the scent of Spetses that inspired the fifteenth-century Venetians to call it the ‘island of spices’, and these natural perfumes are captured in the traditional dishes of local cuisine, where the primary requirement is simply the use of fresh, natural ingredients.

Visitors to the Bostani Organic Farm will learn about traditional organic farming techniques before picking the vegetables and herbs to make their own meal. Experience cooking in the open air under the warm Greek sun, before sitting down to share your creation with friends and family.

A unique presentation of Greek wines combined with inspired local delicacies can be arranged on request in our organic farm. All the seasonal ingredients grown at the Bostani Organic Farm are produced sustainably and turned into healthy and nutritional delicacies offering a unique and memorable tasting experience.

PALMS THE BAR
The cosmopolitan bar of the Poseidonion Grand Hotel is the ultimate spot to enjoy an evening cocktail whilst admiring unparalleled views of the Saronic Gulf.

Palms The Bar is undoubtedly Spetses’ premier spot for sophisticated drinking. Overlooking the waterfront promenade, the bar offers scenic views of the sun setting over the warm waters of the Saronic Gulf.

Take a stool at the elegant marble counter and choose from an extensive menu of cocktails. Aromatic herbs and fresh fruits meet premium spirits, producing unexpected and imaginative flavour combinations with a creative, original touch.

Guests will have the opportunity to indulge and enjoy avant-garde recipes in which, for one more time, fresh ingredients and contemporary versions of classic cocktails will play a central role, all on the atmospheric terrace of Palms Bar.

Choose from a selection of delicious bites designed from our chef Theologos Amiras and his team to capture to aromas of land and sea, and celebrate an evening under the stars.

ALL DAY FLAVORS
Eat traditional dishes in a unique setting, enjoy a light snack or sip a refreshing cocktail, all at the Poseidonion Grand Hotel.

THE BREAKFAST
Start your day with breakfast fit for a king, choosing from the freshly prepared dishes from the exclusive a la carte breakfast menu, all served in the early morning sunshine of the Poseidonion terrace. Accompanied by a freshly squeezed orange juice from the famed citrus groves of Argolis, or a revitalising Greek coffee, there can be no better way to start your day!

Late risers need not worry! A second breakfast is served in the Library Brasserie from 11:30 and includes such offerings as eggs in a variety of options, pancakes, sandwiches and many more. Relax in the mid-morning sun with a strong coffee and eggs prepared your favourite way – the best lazy start to any day!

THE LUNCH
After a long morning at the beach, relax in the shade of the Library Brasserie, where fresh ingredients from the Bostani Organic Farm are transformed through contemporary techniques into welcoming dishes. Take a seat on the sunny outside terrace or seek refuge in the embrace of a plush armchair indoors and enjoy a light lunch with seafront views.

THE DESSERT
Spoil yourself with some of the most delicious desserts in Greece, served at the Library Brasserie throughout the afternoon. Escape the midday sun and relax in the shade tasting delicate sweet suggestions by our Chef.

THE COCKTAILS
Palms The Bar is undoubtedly Spetses’ premier spot for an advanced cocktail experience. Overlooking the waterfront promenade, the bar offers scenic views of the sun setting over the warm waters of the Saronic Gulf.

Take a stool at the elegant marble counter and choose from an extensive menu of cocktails mixing premium spirits with creative, original touches. Aromatic herbs and fresh fruits meet Greek liqueurs and superior international spirits, resulting in unexpected combinations and imaginative flavours – the perfect Spetses nightcap.

THE DINNER
Experience exceptional tastes at Library Brasserie and On the Verandah. Our head chef Theologos Amiras and his talented team of creative culinary professionals craft contemporary Greek dishes infused with local gastronomic traditions and the finest fresh ingredients.

Encounter classic seafront dining steeped in old world grace, with soft lighting and sunset views complementing the refined cuisine.

WEDDINGS IN GREECE
With an ambience of refined luxury and guarantee of impeccable service, the Poseidonion Grand Hotel is the ultimate venue for your wedding, ensuring both you and your guests enjoy every memorable moment.

With the services of Idolo Spa on hand to help you look and feel your best, weddings at the Poseidonion Grand Hotel are guaranteed to be the best day of your life. Idolo Spa both offer exclusive bridal packages.

MEETINGS
The Poseidonion Grand Hotel makes a perfect venue for Spetses conferences meetings, seminars and private functions. It is in an idyllic coastal setting yet very close to Athens. Two meeting rooms with maximum occupancy up to 70 people as well as a number of syndicate rooms, all equipped with in house AV technology, will meet your expectations.

A wide range of services is provided and our experienced meetings planners are on hand before and during your event to ensure that all your needs are met and all aspects of your event run smoothly. The aim of the Poseidonion Grand Hotel is to deliver productive and successful meetings in Spetses every time.

CATERING
Trust your event catering to the safe hands of the Poseidonion Grand Hotel’s expert culinary team. Our devotion to exquisite gastronomy, our passion for local, seasonal ingredients and our faith in the power of genuine hospitality – the cornerstone of our philosophy – guarantees that our bespoke catering services are of an unparalleled standard.

Our chef and his talented team craft seasonally inspired menus, committed to culinary brilliance and impeccable service. Guests will taste the attention to detail and genuine care that has been put into each dish, integrating flawlessly with events ranging from weddings and baptisms to birthday parties and corporate conferences.

The Poseidonion Grand Hotel can provide catering for events held within the hotel, or for external events located in any venue across the island.

THE IDOLO SPA
IDOLO Spa is an enchanting wellness destination for guests of the Poseidonion Grand Hotel. Offering a wide range of holistic treatments inspired by the Mediterranean, our Spa is a haven for health, healing and harmony.

Each guest is taken on a personalised journey to nurture their mind, body and soul, escorted by the signature services and intuitive touch of the Poseidonion Grand Hotel.

Individual spa sessions feature a selection of experiences that aim to relax and rejuvenate guests. From massages to facials, from body wraps to scrubs, all our services utilise natural and organic products. Experience the feeling of true tranquillity as you discover yourself enveloped in the heady aromas of the Greek landscape.

IDOLO Spa also provides comprehensive packages that offer a holistic approach to wellness. The Greek Package draws from the bounties of the surrounding land, using olive oil and oranges for a body scrub and an exfoliating massage.

For recovery and repair, the Therapeutic Package uses naturally cooling products for after-sun healing, completed by a deeply relaxing scalp massage.

Every guest is unique, there is no singular road to wellness. Our intuitive staff are delighted to plan and prepare a bespoke spa treatment for you, offering unique therapies that cater to every need. Experts in their practice, they also offer specialised services for guests who are pregnant or nursing.

Οur well-established team at Idolo Spa is also offering the guests of the hotel an array of beauty services in the Hair & Beauty Salon, for a regenerative pampering experience.

Rest assured that every step of your wellness journey will be in line with rigorous health and safety protocols. Your only task is to sit back, relax and allow the healing powers of IDOLO Spa to complete your stay in Spetses. Kindly make a reservation prior to your visit to IDOLO Spa to ensure availability. The Spa facilities include:

• Massage areas
• Steam Room
• Pool

ARTION GALLERIES
Artion Galleries is an International art Gallery, based in Geneva, Switzerland while also maintaining a presence in Athens, Thessaloniki, Mykonos and Spetses in Greece & in Limassol, Cyprus.

“Our passion for the living history of art, as well as our desire to protect the memory and quality of the Old Masters, in line with contemporary trends, create a dynamic synthesis of the artists we represent; their collaborations shape orientations, form opinions and, it could be argued, contribute to the formation of a general evaluation of the art world, transforming its commercial character into historical content inextricably linked to art.

Our Modus Operandi is based on a specific set of values: we believe that art is a powerful communication system, a way to share our vision with society and, ultimately, a means to define a territory; this dynamically evolving process in turn gives birth to consciousness and identity!” Discover Artion Galleries by the pool, open daily from 10:30 – 13:30 & 18:00 – 00:00

CINÉ TITANIA
Residents of Spetses island will often recall fond memories of watching their favourite movies under a starry sky on a balmy summer evening, lemonade and potato chips in hand, the cicadas humming softly in the background.

The elegant Ciné Titania, an open air cinema, run by the Poseidonion Grand Hotel since 2017, aims to recapture that experience and share it with a new audience, including both visitors and locals.

With two showings per day from June to October, the Titania is at the heart of the island’s entertainment, delighting young and old alike. Originally built in the 60s, the Ciné Titania was a meeting point for families and friends gathering to watch the latest blockbusters on a summers evening.

It represented everything unique about the Greek island lifestyle, during those hot summer months when schools and businesses are closed and vacations become way of life. Even those visiting Spetses for a holiday would find themselves sharing a nocturnal screening with locals, adding to their experience of island life.

Nowadays, despite the advance of home entertainment, DVDs and online streaming, open air cinemas in Greece have continued to maintain a special place in the heart of cinemagoers and many are still in operation.

The Ciné Titania has been given a new lease of life with a total venue renovation and the addition of a new digital projector, including Dolby Surround 5.1. The sliding roof system has been preserved, providing cover for the audience in the event of summer rainfall, and it continues to be one of the unique highlights of the cinema.

Many a youngster attending the old movie house would secretly wish for a sudden downpour so as to witness the marvellous innovation in action, an occurrence which was never frequent, making it even more of a novelty!

The Poseidonion Grand Hotel, in its desire to preserve the traditional lifestyle of Spetses, and with a commitment to offering a truly authentic experience to visitors, undertook the modernisation and re-opening of the Ciné Titania with great attention to detail.

Respecting the venue’s importance to the island, the initiative to make the Titania a firm favourite once again was a labour of love. The lush foliage and scented jasmine still provide the only decor needed and small circular tables are carefully positioned next to the comfortable director chairs for you to place your refreshments.

Not only has the cinema been restored to its former glory, but it has also been imbued with new touches to enchant and delight. The magic of summer cinema has returned to Spetses, and we hope that you will join us for a night of unforgettable movie entertainment.

KIKI & EROS JEWELRY
The Poseidonion Grand Hotel is thrilled to be hosting Kiki & Eros Jewelry inside Artion Galleries. The distinct collection of jewels intertwines emotion and passion within unique artistic creations that highlight beauty, giving confidence and prestige to whoever wears them.

Designed by a talented team of professional designers with international experience chosen by Kiki Tilemachou, the delicate yet intricate handcrafted pieces catch the attention of all who see them as the facets of imagination and pathos align in a tangible jewel.

The collection also displays unique creations by the distinguished designer Theodora D., who has been honoured as the Designer of the Year 2023. Discover the perfect piece for you, open daily from 10:30 – 14:00 & 18:00 -00:00

MAGEIA BOUTIQUE IN POSEIDONION
A delightful selection of clothes, jewellery and summer accessories is available for the discerning guests of Poseidonion Grand Hotel at our ‘Mageia’ Boutique.

Situated right next to the hotel’s spa, the boutique is a small treasure of desire and stocks not only colourful pareos for poolside relaxation but also 100% linen kaftans for keeping cool on warm summer evenings in Spetses.

A selection of exquisite handmade jewellery designed by the well known Ileana Makri features contemporary designs inspired by classic Greek elements.

Traditional leather sandals with original touches and fine printed scarves are available to purchase while gift items such as colourful bags and beaded necklaces make fabulous souvenirs. Guests are welcome to visit the boutique and browse the beautiful items, many of which are truly works of art.

SPETSES ISLAND
Only 54 nautical miles from Athens, Spetses is a picturesque, historic island within the Saronic Gulf. With its naval tradition, rich heritage and distinctive culture, it makes a perfect destination all year long.

“The island of perfumes”, as it was named by the Venetians or “Pityousa” (which in ancient Greek means “full of pine-trees”), is a beautiful, car-free island with numerous wonderful sandy beaches and lovely secluded bays.

The island played an integral part in the Greek Revolution against the Ottoman rule and the subsequent birth of the modern Greek State. When the Greek Revolution broke out in 1821, Spetses was the first of the Greek islands to raise the flag of the Revolution on the morning of April 3 1821 in the church of the patron saint, St. Nicholas, located in the old harbour.

Every year, the second weekend of September is dedicated to commemorating the events of the battle of September 8 1822 in which the Turkish flotilla was torched. The events culminate in a re-enactment of the burning of the Turkish flagship in the harbour.

Even today, most traditional fishing boats and sea-taxis hoist the blue and red flag of the revolution. The blue signifies freedom and the red signifies blood, along with the words “Freedom or Death”. Not to be missed in Spetses:

• A horse-drawn carriage ride along the promenade
• A walk from the main port of Dapia to the lighthouse of the Palio Limani (Old Harbor), passing the Captain’s Mansions which line the seafront and the intricate stone pavements
• A visit to the traditional Spetses Shipyards, the only ones in Greece which have been carrying out this skilled craft uninterruptedly since the War of Independence
• A guided tour of the Hatzigiannis Mexis Mansion and the Bouboulina Museum
• A visit to one of the island’s open air cinemas in the summer months
• A visit to the Anargyrios and Korgialenios School of Spetses
• Bike Rides & Hiking
• Charter a traditional wooden boat for the day

SPETSES ACTIVITIES
Activities form an integral part of the guest experience at the Poseidonion Grand Hotel and our team of local staff are keen to share their knowledge of the best excursions in and around Spetses.

From a quiet morning cycle around the island to a late afternoon trek or a relaxing evening out on the waters of the Argosaronic Gulf, Spetses is the perfect island to reconnect with nature whilst pursuing the activities you love.

The Poseidonion Grand Hotel is committed to providing the highest levels of comfort to our guests and at the same time encourages all visitors to immerse themselves in an idyllic land that remains unspoilt and untouched.

DAY CRUISE TO HYDRA
The amphitheatre-shaped port of Hydra, which once served as a safe shelter for pirates, welcomes you to one of the most unique islands in Greece. Approaching by sea, visitors are able to admire the special architecture and dramatic landscape of the island, with its traditional old stone houses and mansions that stand as silent witnesses to a long and turbulent history.

Explore the narrow, cobbled streets of the main town by foot, or hire a local ‘vehicle’ – the saddled donkey – to guide you on your way. With its crystal clear waters, local craft shops and welcoming, friendly residents, the beauty of Hydra is sure to enchant you.

CYCLING IN SPETSES
Travel like a Spetsiot and take an elegant tour of the island by bicycle. For a full day excursion, follow the well-paved, 26 km coastal road, giving you an almost 360° view of the island’s coastline as well as commanding vistas of the entire Argosaronic Gulf.

A number of off-road trails of varying difficulty are also available, weaving their way in to the heart of Spetses. One of these tracks runs along the highest point of the island, offering unobstructed views of the setting sun.

Bicycles are available to rent on a daily or weekly basis. Order in advance from the Poseidonion Grand Hotel’s special picnic menu and you will be met at your chosen lunch spot with a fresh and delicious packed lunch.

FISHING IN SPETSES
Discover a hidden side of authentic island life and enjoy a day fishing in the crystal clear waters of the Saronic Gulf. Join local fishermen and accompany them to fishing spots known only to locals. Once there, cast your net to catch a treasure from the sea.

Traditional methods and equipment will be used to catch the freshest of seafood, whilst the knowledgeable fishermen will teach you the art of sustainable fishing and its secrets.

This truly unique day out culminates in cooking the catch of the day, Spetses style. The captain will prepare ‘Kakavia’, the island’s traditional fish soup handed down from an Ancient Greek recipe and still enjoyed today!

SPETSES HIKING
Explore Spetses on foot, discovering the scenic footpaths and trails that criss-cross the island. Due to its geographical position in the Argosaronic Gulf, Spetses is blessed with a unique microclimate. As a result, the island is in bloom throughout most of the year, meaning that, for hikers, there is no wrong time to visit!

However, towards the end of March, when spring is fully underway, Spetses is widely recognised as a walkers paradise, with the added bonus of Easter just around the corner. Order in advance from the Poseidonion Grand Hotel’s special picnic menu and you will be met at your chosen lunch spot with a fresh and delicious packed lunch.

HORSE RIDING
On a car-free island where cycling is everyone’s favourite hobby, horseback riding is an ideal choice for those who dare to try something a little different. See the island’s breathtaking beaches from above, breathe in the fresh summer air and enjoy panoramic views of the sparkling blue Saronic Gulf.

A personalised picnic can be arranged to carry with you, and will ensure you are refuelled and ready for the slow trot back home. Alternatively, order in advance from the Poseidonion Grand Hotel’s special picnic menu and you will be met at your chosen lunch spot with a fresh and delicious packed lunch.

YOGA & PILATES
Yoga and pilates offer the perfect escape for relaxing, rebalancing and nurturing your mental and physical health. The Poseidonion Grand Hotel collaborates with fully qualified yoga and pilates instructors who are happy to tailor each class to guests’ individual needs. Classes can be held on the beach or indoors, and private classes can also be arranged.

TAI CHI CHUAN
Tai Chi Chuan is well known for the great health benefits gained through its practice. Although Tai Chi Chuan started as a martial art in China, it adopted the energy practices of traditional Chinese medicine.

It does not demand a special level of fitness and considers the body as a whole, possessing vital energy. Through systematic exercise the body relaxes and becomes stronger, more supple and more resilient, helping to prevent health problems and assist with existing ones.

Through Tai Chi Chuan, practitioners gain a calmer physical disposition, an open heart and a clear mind. Rediscover the tranquility and sense of wholeness which is often lost in the everyday activities of modern life.

Join a Tai Chi Chuan workshop with a certified instructor, who will transmit their theoretical knowledge and experience and help you put it into practice. Classes also include tea breaks and conversations on the philosophy of Tai Chi Chuan.

WHEAT & BREAD
Wheat has provided the basis for human nutrition in almost every culture and civilisation, and continues to do so today. Throughout history, bread has been linked to almost every major event of the human life cycle, as well as religious rituals and ceremonies, and has been dated back at least 8000 years.

During this workshop, you will learn more about the importance of wheat and bread throughout Greek culture, from the ploughing and the sowing of seeds to the harvest and milling. You will also learn about sourdough, leavening and kneading, culminating in the baking of your own bread to take away with you!

BEEKEEPING
Meet the art of beekeeping, a practice that has a long tradition in Spetses due to its mild climate and beautiful, aromatic flora. Since ancient times, Greeks have recognised the nutritional value of honey for the human body.

There are a number of mythical references to the importance of honey in everyday life, as well as its almost magical healing powers. Nowadays, besides the professional apiarist, there are an increasing number of amateurs who are dedicated to keeping the art of beekeeping alive.

During this workshop you will have the opportunity to discover the unique organisation of bee populations and the social structure of the honeybee colony. You will become familiar with many aspects of the art of beekeeping, including its history, the tools and clothing used, bee products, the inspection of hives and, most importantly, the process of extracting honey from honeycombs.

NATURAL SOAP MAKING
The beneficial properties of olive oil are widely recognised, but people often underestimate its value as a cosmetic product. Olive oil has regenerative and moisturising properties, as well as therapeutic ones. It is used as the basic ingredient in natural soaps, together with raw materials such as essential oils and herbal extracts, many of which can easily be sourced at home.

During the first part of the workshop you will travel on a journey through the history of soap, learn tips and tricks about soap making and discover the correlation between herbs, essential oils and olive oil.

In the second part, you will put to use your theoretical knowledge and create your own natural olive oil soaps from start to finish, using traditional techniques. Finally, you will have the opportunity to decorate your soaps with natural products and fibres, before safely storing them to solidify their final form.

PLACES TO VISIT
Taking into consideration both modern and ancient history, as well as authentic experiences with local guides, our proposed visits are targeted to travellers who yearn for a deeper travel experience and who value authenticity, local traditions, culture and rituals and who cherish diversity.

HYDRA ISLAND
Hydra, along with Spetses, played a key role in the Greek revolution and has since become an island favoured by many artists, painters and musicians who find inspiration in its narrow winding streets and picturesque architecture.

Two of the most heroic figures of Hydra were the shipowners Andreas Miaoulis and Lazaros Koundouriotis, whose bravery and sacrifice for the causes of the revolution are honoured to this day.

In the fifties Hydra enjoyed a cultural renaissance as a movie set for various films including “Boy on a Dolphin” by Jean Negulesco starring Sophia Lauren and “Phaedra” by Michalis Kakoyiannis starring Antony Perkins and Melina Merkouri .

The late Canadian songwriter Leonard Cohen lived here for a time and was inspired to compose his beloved song “Bird on the Wire”.

ANCIENT EPIDAURUS THEATRE
The ancient theatre of Epidaurus was built in the 4th century BC and is considered to be one of the best preserved ancient theatres in the world.

The original 34 rows of the theatre were extended in Roman times by another 21 rows, seating a total of 15,000 spectators. The theatre is renowned for its acoustics which permit almost perfect hearing from all 15,000 spectators regardless of their seating.

A 2007 study by the Georgia Institute of Technology, which was widely published in scholarly journals, indicates that the astonishing acoustics are the result of an advanced design system: the rows of limestone seats filter out low frequency sounds (such as the murmur of the crowd) and amplify high frequency sounds from the stage.

The area surrounding the theatre of Epidaurus was famous in ancient times for being a celebrated healing center dedicated to Askleipios, the god of healing. The theatre of the city of Epidaurus was discovered in 1970 and fully excavated in 1989.

The theatre was designed by Polykleitos in the 4th century BC. The ancient theatre of Epidaurus has been included by UNESCO in its list of World Heritage Sites. Plays continue to be performed in the theatre as part of the Greek festival season during the months of July & August.

After your tour of the ancient theatre of Epidaurus, you may stop for lunch at any one of the local tavernas in the vicinity or visit the villages of “Koliaki” or “Traxeia” which are famous for their local cheeses, bread and home-made pasta.

CORINTH CANAL
The Corinth Canal connects the Gulf of Corinth with the Saronic Gulf in the Aegean Sea. The building of the Canal was first attempted by Periander, the tyrant of Corinth, in 602 BC who abandoned it however due to lack of funds and expertise.

Instead, an overland road named ‘Diolkos’ was constructed whereby the ships would be wheeled across. Many more abortive attempts followed during Roman times, with Julius Caesar, Caligula and even Nero attempting and failing to build the Canal.

Finally in modern times, after an unsuccessful attempt by Ioannis Kapodistrias, the first governor of Greece, the canal was completed on July 25th 1893, after eleven years of work.

The Corinth canal was built by Hungarian engineer, Béla Gerster (1850-1923), with the assistance of French engineer Vincent Dauzats. The canal consists of a single channel 8 metres (26 ft) deep, excavated at sea level, measuring 6,346 metres (20,820 ft) long by 24.6 metres (81 ft) wide at the top and 21.3 metres (70 ft) wide at the bottom.

In 1988 submersible bridges were installed at sea level at each end of the canal. Ships can only pass through the canal one at a time on a one-way system. Larger ships have to be towed by tugs. The canal is nowadays used mostly by tourist ships, with an approximate 11,000 ships travelling through the waterway per year.

NAFLPIO TOWN
Nafplio is located a short one and a half hour drive from Spetses. The picturesque seaside town is known for being the first capital of Greece from the start of the Greek Revolution in 1821 until 1834.

Apart from the magnificent Constitution Square and the impressive architectural buildings, Nafplio has significant folklore museums, most notably the “Koboloi” Museum with a collection of over 1,000 worry beads from the 18th and 20th century and also the Peloponnese Folklore Museum, the largest in Greece. Finally, visitors can take a short boat ride across to Bourtzi Castle, which is located a few miles off the main port.

A stroll in the main Constitution Square is a must for visitors as well as stopping off for a traditional Greek coffee at the “Hellas” coffee shop. One of the oldest of its kind in Greece, the café has been used as a set for a series of popular and successful TV commercials for Loumidi Greek coffee, one of the country’s best selling coffee brands.

The Folklore Museum exhibits over 20.000 items of regional art, traditional costumes and embroided woven articles, as well as an excellent museum shop for traditional gifts and souvenirs.

Also of historical importance is the “Bourtzi”. Bourtzi Castle (meaning “tower” in Turkish) was built in 1473 as a fortification against pirates and invaders from the sea. In summer the castle features many cultural events including a popular summer music festival.

The building of the National Bank of Greece in Nafplio is the only one of its kind in the world built in the Mycenaean Revival architectural style.

Website: www.poseidonion.com

Rooms: 55

Price: from 305 EUR per night