If you seek respite from the city’s clamour, consider the Greek island of Spetses—a personal favourite of mine.
Located in the Saronic Gulf, just a short 3 hour boat ride from Athens, it exudes style, sophistication, and a rich maritime history. Let me paint a picture of this enchanting destination:
Location and Accessibility
Spetses is part of the Saronic Islands group, nestled in the Argolic Gulf. It’s the southernmost island in the group, just 54 nautical miles away from Athens. A simple 3 hr ferry ride from Athens transports you to this picturesque, car-free haven.
Charming Architecture and Culture
The island boasts a unique architecture, with neoclassical captains’ mansions lining the streets. Since cars are restricted, horse-drawn carriages and walking are the preferred modes of transport. Stroll through the well-kept gardens of the Anargyrio and Korgialenio School, where renowned writer John Fowles once taught.
Historical Significance
Spetses is steeped in history, dating back to 3000 BC. You can explore the Bouboulina Museum, showcasing personal items of the War of Independence naval commander, Laskarina Bouboulina.
Don’t miss the impressive Mansion of Hatzigianni Mexi, once home to the island’s first governor.
Holiday Vibes
The charming neighbourhood of the Old Harbour comes alive with candlelit tables, gourmet dining, and lively conversation. As evening descends, choose from a variety of bars and clubs. Spetses has long been a favourite escape for high society, reflected in its smart cafes, art stores, and stylish boutiques.
Poseidon Hotel and Aristocratic Ambience
The legendary Poseidon Hotel near the port has hosted royalty, politicians, and dignitaries. Take a romantic evening ride in a horse-drawn cart, passing by the picturesque Old Harbour and Agios Nikolaos.
Accomodation
Accommodation is affordable, unlike the neighbouring Hydra, where it costs an arm and leg. I’d say, a weekend here is definitely a nice length of stay, but if you’re limited in time and want to explore more islands, then at least one day should be fine.
Overall
Spetses is a great place for a short getaway and I would like to come back here for at least another 3-4 days, to allow more time to relax on the beach and explore the beauty of this place. On your way back, I would recommend making a quick stop at Hydra, even if it’s just for a few hours, the place is stunningly unique and rather small, so staying there overnight isn’t necessary (and it’s quite expensive too), but this is up to you. Getting to and back from Spetses is easiest with the ferry from Athens, making it easy to organise and inexpensive. Hotels are in abundance and on Booking.com you will find everything you need, and if you go slightly out of season (I went in September), you can book on the spot, I did not have any prior reservations. I simply arrived there, opened the app on my phone and found a hotel right away.
Oggs' Earth 
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