With a vivid presence on the tourist map of the Greek summer, Western Greece stands out as one of the most experience-worthy regions of the country. Kato Achaia, where Lakkopetra lies, with a famous historical role as a member of the Achaean League (a Hellenistic-era confederation of Greek city-states on the northern and central Peloponnese), is one of the most magnificent parts of the area. It extends west of Patras, just 20 kilometers from the major urban center. Its enchanting beach, with thick sand, clear, tranquil waters, and full facilities for relaxation and water sports, along with the resplendent shores that surround it, picturesque seaside villages, and a captivating variety of natural environments in close proximity, make Kato Achaia and Lakkopetra specifically a destination for everyone.
Why Visit Now
The great advantage of its proximity to Athens and the low cost of travel compared to island or more distant mainland destinations favor the choice of Kato Achaia for early summer getaways. For those planning to spend their vacation on the islands and for those still looking for a holiday destination, the weekends of the already hot June and the long weekend of Pentecost provide an opportunity to discover a region with endless options for first swims.
What to Do
Although each of the successive stunning beaches of the area will tempt you to stay put and not get back in your car until the return trip, it’s worth exploring more than just one. Seek out the one that will impress you the most among Kato Alissos with its turquoise waters, easily reachable Kalamaki, fine-pebbled Niforeika, sandy, family-friendly Lakkopetra, and even further west, Gianiskari with the spectacular contrast of its golden sand and the dense forest that surrounds it, or the seemingly endless, exotic Kalogria with its impressive sand dunes.
At Kalogria, you will also find the renowned Strofylia pine forest, known for its rarity throughout Europe, which stretches along the beach and exceeds one kilometer in width. Nature lovers and non-nature lovers alike will be thrilled by the setting created by the famous umbrella pines of this beautiful forest, surrounded by eight hiking trails and three cycling routes. It’s an excellent opportunity to discover an ecosystem of great ecological value, since the Strofylia forest, along with the Papa or Kalogeras and Prokopos lagoons, are part of the Kotychi-Strofylia Wetlands National Park, a protected area under the Natura 2000 Network.
Where to Stay
You will pass by fields of watermelons and zucchinis, cross a lush plain, and find yourself at an idyllic resort that feels like a natural gateway between the fertile lands you left behind and the Blue Flag-awarded beach of Lakkopetra that stretches out before you.
What better way to kick off the season of carefree living than at an all-inclusive beach resort, where everything has been anticipated for you and your family? Spread over 80 acres, welcoming, spacious, relaxed as a seaside accommodation should be, yet meticulously maintained with high-level services as guaranteed by Grecotel, the Casa Marron focuses on unwinding, relaxation, and the enjoyment of those small but significant moments.
Moments that we will share with our family or friends in three of the resort’s six pools, those we will capture in photos of our children having fun on the spectacular water slides, those we will dedicate to our personal pampering in the rejuvenating environment of the Casa Marron Wellness Center, with its own pool, massage cabins, sauna, fully equipped gym, and effective, targeted beauty treatments.
The Casa Marron isn’t lacking in fun; on the contrary, activities for all ages are combined with relaxation, providing an experience that seems to last all day. It all starts from the beach, where equipment for water sports is available, ranging from canoeing and surfing to motorized water games and a beach volleyball court. Children are in for a special treat, with two pools designed just for them and water slides, plus a complimentary entry to the colorful and highly entertaining Olympia Aqua Park at the nearby Riviera Olympia, a privilege offered for a minimum stay of 4 nights. The more active guests can start their day with a morning workout at the fully equipped gym and continue on the tennis courts, 5×5 soccer fields, basketball courts, or ping-pong tables.
As the sun sets, even more surprises await, with evenings at the Casa Marron unfolding just as summer dictates: with joy and high spirits. This is guaranteed by themed shows for the whole family, disco parties, and live events featuring professional musicians.
As for the multifaceted gastronomic experience, it takes us on a delightful journey through local traditions and the familiar flavors of our childhood, featuring all the characteristic dishes we associate with the Greek summer, set in a fitting ambiance.
In the space of Plateia, which means town square, vibrant like those found in authentic villages, we can enjoy international cuisine, live cooking, coffee, drinks, music, dancing, and a host of events. Meanwhile, at the seaside Plaz Marron, open for dinner, Mediterranean cuisine shines. The all-inclusive, unlimited culinary choices are complemented by the themed buffets of international flavors at the Casa Marron Restaurant, the wide variety of delicious grilled dishes at the relaxed BBQ House, and the fresh pasta and amazing wood-fired pizzas that pay homage to everyone’s beloved Italian cuisine at Trattoria and Pizzaria, respectively.
Dessert lovers will find their paradise in the freshly made creations of the Bakery-Pastry, complemented by refreshing ice creams and tempting crepes with ingredients of their choice at the Creperie-Gelateria. Two bars and a café will cater from early morning until midnight, offering authentic Greek coffee, a little ouzo with meze, and expertly crafted cocktails. Simply choose your favorite spot and toast to a carefree experience and a wonderful summer.
https://www.grecotel.com/casa-marron/
(-5% for reservations through the app of Grecotel)
