Watching an ancient play at the theatre of Epidaurus is an unforgettable experience. However, the area has a lot more to offer and is ideal for a two-day escape.
It was originally built to host music and dramatic games as part of the worship of Asclepius. Later on, plays were performed there, since it was believed that watching drama benefited the audience. A performance at the Ancient Theatre of Epidaurus, one of the best-preserved ancient theatres in the world, today, 2.500 years later, still has the same impact. Very close to Athens, Epidaurus is a great destination for a two-day getaway filled with theatre, swimming and good food.
Saturday
10:00
It won’t take more than two hours to reach Palaia Epidaurus (Old Epidaurus) from Athens. Don’t stop at the village and go straight to Gialasi beach that is one of the largest beaches in the area, with sand, white pebbles and clear waters. On the beach you can get coffee and food. On its left is the beach Gliati (also known as Kalimnos) with ruins of the ancient town scattered on its seabed. A dive with a mask over the ancient remains is one of the weekends highlights.
14:00
A bit further back from Gialasi you’ll find the stone building of Kalogerikon restaurant and will be seated in the garden, surrounded by orange trees. Apart from the interesting twists to traditional dishes like imam (traditional stuffed aubergine stew) with the caramelized onions, the baked octopus with wine sauce and the organic chicken with hilopites (a Greek pasta made with egg), they also serve local meat. The pork steak and the beef rib-eye steak are both really good choices. Another plus is the great selection of Greek wines and the local bread.
Info: Kalogerikon, Ancient Epidaurus, tel. 0030 27530 42090
17:00
For a view that goes as far as Piraeus, you need to go to the village Koliaki, around 8 kilometres away from Palaia Epidaurus. At the café Agnanti tou Saronikou the view will enchant you and if the atmosphere is clear you’ll be able to see the islands of Agistri and Aegina. They serve fresh homemade desserts.
Info: Agnanti tou Saronikou, Koliaki, Epidaurus, tel. 0030 6973 887840
20:00
You can’t miss (even if it won’t be your first time) the experience of a performance at the Ancient Theatre of Epidaurus which is 16 kilometres away from Palaia Epidaurus. It was built in the 4th century BC, around 2.500 years ago, by architect and sculptor Polykleitos and it remains unbeatable in acoustics and beauty. Following the trail that leads to the stone seats, you’ll find yourself with foreign visitors, families, actors and high society. Each performance turns into a ritual and the ancient theatre imposes silence with its grandeur. If you’re more into a more relaxed atmosphere and a bit more innovative performances, the Athens & Epidaurus Festival also puts on various shows in the Little Theatre of Ancient Epidaurus that is located in Palaia Epidaurus.
Info: Athens & Epidaurus Festival, www.aefestival.gr
23:00
Go to Bolbos’ garden for meat grilled to perfection. This historic family tavern has been serving steaks, beef burgers and ribs to audiences and actors for decades.
Info: Bolbos, Palaia Epidaurus, tel. 0030 27530 41471
01:00
They night is long in Palaia Epidaurus and the reason for this is the historic disco Capaki. This disco opened its doors for the first time in 1981 and has become the temple of fun in the area. With ‘80s decor and a large dancefloor in the middle of the disco, you won’t be able to resist having fun and dancing till early the next morning.
Info: Disco Capaki, 10 N. Pittidis st, Gialasi, Palaia Epidaurus, tel. 0030 6946 684493
Sunday
11:00
Enjoy your breakfast and morning coffee, while also enjoying views of the sea and of Palaia Epidaurus, in Stork Design Suites. These modern suits have balconies with great views and offer every amenity.
Info: Stork Design Suites, Ethniki Odos Isthmou – Theatro Epidaurou, Epidaurus, tel. 0030 27530 41907, www.stork.gr
12:00
Two bays separated by a small island and a strip of rocks, with big pebbles and crystal waters. Take the dirt road between New and Palaia Epidaurus to reach the beach of Panagia Polemarha. Walking among the pine trees you’ll reach the beach but remember to get provisions before you get on the dirt road as the beach is secluded and there are no facilities there.
15:00
On your way back it’s well worth making a stop at Isthmia at the fish tavern Kavos 1964. Right next to the sea you’ll eat fish from the local boats’ catch as well as unique mezes. You must try the marinated anchovy, the homemade tarama salad and the seafood spaghetti.
Info: Kavos 1964, Kavos, Isthmia, Corinth, Tel. 0030 27410 37906
