What makes Agistri so special? It’s not cosmopolitan like the Cyclades, it doesn’t have the endless white sandy beaches of the Ionian islands that resemble a painting, it doesn’t attract the crowds of Mykonos, nor will you see luxury boats mooring at its bays.
It doesn’t have the shops and boutiques for you to spend hours window shopping, and you probably won’t visit a different beach every day. However, at Agistri, you might get something much more valuable and important: that old, lost, carefreeness of childhood. When days and nights went by very slowly and in the summer you only counted ice creams and swims. When you had no other care in the world, you just lived in the moment.
So, no matter how many times you escape to this destination that’s so close to Athens, you’ll always have a reason to return. Agistri is just one hour from the port of Piraeus by flying dolphin, or an hour and forty-five minutes if you take the regular boat. The ticket is extremely cheap, just €12,5 per adult with a car. So, if what you’re after is a short, affordable escape, a stone’s throw from Athens, then this cute small island in the Argosaronic Gulf, with the peaceful, retro feel and the familiar – even if it’s the first time you go there – thrills, is the ideal choice for you.
What to do
Life in Skala
One true advantage that will make a difference while you’re on the island is that it’s truly small. So, wherever you choose to stay, transport will be simple, you could even walk if you haven’t brought your car. Alternatively, you can rent a bike or a scooter at reasonable prices to go around the island.
If it’s nightlife you’re after, then you should stay at Skala, the second largest village on the island where the majority of restaurants, cafés, and bars of Agistri are located. In addition, dozens of hotels are located here, as well as rooms to let, mini markets for provisions, and a small, cute beach that might not be the best on the island, however it’s quite popular due to the easy access.
Early in the afternoon, after the morning swims, the action moves to the heart of the village, where the younger travellers grab a bite before going back to their rooms to rest and have a shower. And then, in the evening, Skala turns into a wild, cheerful party, with club Taboo – a local trademark – being the main show, playing loud music till early in the morning.
Exploring Skliri
It’s probably the most picturesque, most beautiful and most “Cycladic” village in Agistri. Skliri has the harsh, bare surroundings of a Cycladic island, windows with small, blue shutters, and high white steps linking the narrows streets. You’ll find fragrant bougainvillea trees covering entire walls, and wide white-washed porches overlooking the sea.
In this beautiful little village, there’s a “famous” alley called “lovers street”. That’s where couples go to lovingly pose with the sea in the background, but it’s not easy to find. You’ll need to look for it, as it’s hidden away among the steep uphill streets of this charming village that’s perched on the island’s rocks.
Sunset at Megalohori
Skala may be the natural port of Agistri, and thus be the place everyone goes through, however Megalohori, at the north part of the island, is exactly what its name says (Megalohori means large village): the largest village on the island.
It’s also called simply Hora or Mylos and it’s just a 15-minute-walk from Skala, on the seaside road, with the blue sea on one side and the pine trees on the other. After about 2 km, you’ll see the lovely beach of Megalohori in front of you with both pebbles and sand.
If you stay in Megalohori till late afternoon and head to the castle, you’ll see a stunning sunset. The sky turns an orange-red colour that slowly fades into purple when the sun sinks into the Aegean.
Swimming at Aponisos
Opposite from Agistri there’s a tiny slice of land, mentioned on maps as Aponisos. This private island is linked to Agistri by land, but to ‘enter’ it you need to pay a €5 ticket. However, the price includes a sunbed and umbrella, as well as a beer.
You’ll get there very easy and you’ll want to dive into the magic, crystal waters that resemble a tropical paradise immediately. The nature surrounding the emerald sea of Aponisos is wild and pristine and will make you feel like you’ve travelled back in time, to one of the islands of the Aegean before it knew tourist development. If there’s only one place you should go swimming in Agistri, then it’s Aponisos, since, overall, it’s a rare experience.
You should also visit the beach Halikiada, right next to Skliri, a calm place that resembles the Ionian Sea, as well as the pebbled Dragonera that’s surrounded by pine trees. For those seeking total calm, there’s also Magkiza and Bariama beaches, very close to Aponisos, where on a quiet summer afternoon, you’ll feel like the only people on earth.
Hiking and jogging on the island’s trails
Agistri is an island covered in pine trees, hidden in forests, a tiny place in the centre of the Argosaronic Gulf, and it’s ideal for hiking on its hidden trails on the mountain.
In fact, in the spring and in the summer, the Hard Sun races take place here, on the unique trails that have a view of the endless sea. If you’re experienced hikers or mountain runners, you can go on the 27km path at 936 m altitude for a unique experience.
If you’re not that experienced, you can choose a shorter, 10 km route, at 367m altitude, an equally exciting path on secret trails within the fragrant nature, that is easier to complete.
Where to eat
Toxotis
One of the best-known restaurants in Agistri, Toxotis is located in Skala, and serves delicious casserole dishes with a homemade feel. Many people claim that this is the best food on the island.
Tasty mezze, well-prepared stews and great meat. You must try the grilled souvlaki, it’s absolutely delicious.
The only restaurant on Aponisos is a cute, old-fashioned tavern that seems to have come from a different era. If you’re there swimming, get a table with a view and order their great fresh fish. We recommend the fried calamari, the ultimate lunch on a hot summer day after swimming in the sea.
Quadrant
A modern place, right on the sandy beach of Megalohori, with an interesting take in the food they offer, with their menu even including sushi.
Here, you’ll relax with a cocktail till late at night, after seeing the impressive sunset over the sea.
“To Mantraki” coffee shop
A very quiet shop at the port of Megalohori with a lovely view of the sea and tasty fish and seafood.
The salads are made with local ingredients, and the seafood is fresh and fried to perfection. Try the amazing shrimp pasta, at a very reasonable price, and the amazing grilled octopus, one of the best dishes on the menu.
Read also:
