The Ionian coast has long been a draw for vacationers from all over the globe, particularly those with a penchant for cool, deep waters. Meanwhile, equally charming, though less known, are many beaches that can be found on the expansive and startlingly varied Greek mainland. One of the most beautiful of these coastlines stretches along the water in Aetolia-Acarnania. Near the island of Lefkada, on the Ionian Sea and near the Peloponnese, it is known as Vathyavali.
Until recent years, Vathyavali was known mainly to those holidaying by sailboat or locals from this part of Aetolia-Acarnania. After all, access was challenging due to tricky road conditions. Today, it’s a much more highly visited shore, attracting beach-loving visitors from all over Greece who are vacationing nearby or passing through the area.
The water here is truly crystalline, pristine, and cool. The beach is quite large, so you’ll come across an expanse of umbrellas and sunbeds in the height of summer, although there’s still space if you’d rather lay down your towel. It’s vital to note that the water at Vathyavali is quite a bit deeper than that at other beaches in the area, which might make it less appealing to families with young children.
The road to Vathyavali includes some unpaved sections but is better maintained in the summer. The ideal thing to do is to leave your car at the top and walk down to the beach. The view of the Ionian Sea from the parking lot is breathtaking.
The orientation and geographical position of the beach keep it protected from the winds most of the time. Vathyavali, like the coasts of Aetolia-Acarnania in general, is an excellent vacation spot if you want to enjoy beaches as beautiful as those of the Ionian Islands without needing to board a boat or a plane.
Tips for a Trip to the Area
Palairos is ideal for diving and offers something for beginners and advanced divers alike. Some notable dive spots include the Gulf of Agia Paraskevi, the Adelfonisia Islands, and Agios Nikolaos.
If you’re looking for more than just seaside vacations, a visit to the village of Monastiraki is also recommended. It’s about a half-hour drive from Palairos and 10 minutes from Vonitsa. There, you’ll find a path leading to the Sepeto waterfall and the nearby fairy cave with stalactites and stalagmites.
Other than tourist facilities and an elegant marina in Palairos, it’s well worth taking a look at some of the buildings there, such as the magnificent Ragou mansion, constructed in the latter half of the 19th century.
Read also:
Ionian Paradise: The Best Beaches in Kefalonia and Zakynthos
Fonias Canyon: Spectacular, Ominously Named Waterfalls
The Enchanting Corinthian Village of Kamari
