Achinos may not boast the reputation of the thermal spring villages in the Fthiotida region, eastern Greece, or other seaside villages, but it is a traditional village possessing unique interest. The location represents a terrific alternative if seeking a quiet excursion in the wider Fthiotida area.
Given the area’s serenity, it is no coincidence that renowned writer Georges Sarri – whose body of work included “The Treasure of Vaghia”, an acclaimed partially autobiographical novel from 1969 – maintained a holiday home at Achinos.
Achinos, a lowland village at 37 metres above sea level in the northeastern section of Fthiotida, is situated 11 km from the town Stylida and a 233-km distance from Athens, requiring approximately 2 hours and 45 minutes to cover by car. The northern beaches of the Malliakos gulf are situated nearby, just 2 km away. A small seaside settlement, Paralia Achinou, established in 2010, is within Achinos’ administrative boundaries. The overall population of Achinos totals 816 residents, according to a 2011 census.
Achinos has a prominent past. It is situated at the Phthiotis region’s ancient city Echinos, which appears to date back to the 5th century BC.
Considerable excavation work that has taken place in recent years has brought to the light of day ancient tombs, vases, figurines, jewellery, as well as remnants of buildings from the Hellenistic and Roman periods. The remains of an earthquake-destroyed heroon, a shrine dedicated to an ancient hero, have confirmed that Echinos continued to exist through the 3rd century AD.
The roots of the modern-day village hail back to the years of Ottoman rule, a period reflected by traditional tower houses that have been preserved, becoming attractions, as well as rich folk tradition.
Older local residents have stories to tell about the legend of a golden pig and its seven piglets, a fossilised boa snake that was found at a cave in the area, as well as a church made of gold, which is believed to exist below the surface somewhere in the old castle area.
5 things worth doing if in Achinos
If in the village during the summer period, take the opportunity to swim at its lovely beach, also a rewarding experience during the rest of the year. Also try the renowned local wine, made by small producers.
Visit ancient Echinos
Contact with Achinos’ ancient past can be easily achieved via the modern-day village, as the remnants of the Echinos acropolis are situated on a hill at the foot of Mount Othrys. This structure dates back to the 4th century BC, when the city-state was at its peak, representing the Achaeans of Phthia in Delphi’s amphictyonic league, an ancient religious association of tribes formed before the rise of the Greek poleis.
See the traditional tower houses
The surviving tower houses bear testament to a forgotten architectural tradition that flourished during the period of Ottoman rule. These structures featured three levels and, in most cases, wooden roofs. The so-called Palios Pyrgos, or old tower, where the region’s Ottoman land owner Mustafa Bey was once based, is a typical example. A mansion to its side was a latter addition, from 1839.
Visit the Agios Dimitrios chapel
The Agios Dimitrios chapel is situated at one of Achinos’ most impressive locations, within a lush setting of dense greenery, a natural environment of springs and running waters.
See renowned writer Georges Sarri’s holiday house
Many informed visitors pass by the holiday house of author Georges Sarri in Achinos. It is believed that Sarri wrote some of her best-known works at this property, her writing retreat. Sarri first visited the area in the 1970s, for a holiday, and, in the ensuing years, maintained a holiday house at the village, which she mostly stayed at during the summer months. Sarri was embraced by the local community. She helped establish a local library for the village students.
Visit the beach and the innovative La Tour Melas winery
Though Paralia Achinou, the beach area, is regarded as a separate village, it still lies within the administrative boundaries of Achinos, just 2 km away. The charming beach area is definitely worth seeing, even if you happen to be in the area during the non-summer months. In summer, it is an ideal spot if seeking a quiet seaside destination.
The region’s vineyards, almost reaching the sea, are a unique sight. A winding road crossing the area’s slopes leads to the winery La Tour Melas, just beyond the village. Its founder, Kyros Melas, was inspired by French estates. His small-scale winery produces a rosé, Idylle d’ Achinos, which has generated an international reputation, prompting comparisons with the French rosé wines of Provence.
This winery is not just open to the public but also offers accommodation at 4 guest houses. Two of these are shaped as stone tower houses.
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