Loutraki is a Greek resort with thermal springs. A story about an independent trip to Greece: a report on a trip to the resort of Loutraki Loutraki which sea

Loutraki is a city on the shores of the Gulf of Corinth, 4 km from Corinth. It is a well-known resort town that is popular at home and abroad for its mineral springs. Even the name of the city itself comes from the Greek Λουτρά - “medicinal baths”. If you have reached Corinth, then do not be too lazy to get to Loutraki - the city is really very beautiful! And here's what you can see here.

Embankment Loutraki

As you know, the city stretches along the sea for several kilometers, respectively, the main embankment of Loutraki is quite long. This is one of the favorite places of tourists and local youth who come here on warm summer evenings "to see and be seen." On this promenade there is a number of hotels of various stars, as well as restaurants, coffee, discos, bars and taverns. And the most important place for entertainment is the casino, by the way, one of the largest in Europe. Also from the embankment you can go down to the beaches of the city.

Thermal waterfall

This waterfall is constantly covered with people who want to improve their health. Thermal waters with a temperature of 32 degrees have healing medicinal properties. Therefore, a swimming pool was built at the bottom of the waterfall, where you can swim. There is also a cafe with a summer terrace next to the waterfall. This waterfall can be found on the Loutraki embankment, on the slope of the Gerania mountains, in the main city park. By the way, the city park is very nice and strikes with vegetation on the territory - there are shrubs, and palms, and azaleas. A riot of greenery! And it's a great place to walk.

Sanctuary "Perachora Gereon"

This landmark is located near the village of Perehora, northwest of Loutraki. The sanctuary was once a beautiful temple built to honor the goddess of marriage and family, Hera. Today, these are ruins on the shores of a beautiful bay, next to the lighthouse at Cape Malankawi. Scientists claim that the sanctuary was built in the 6th century BC on the site of an arched temple of the 8th century BC. This building (the last one) is built in the shape of a rectangle, 10.3 X 31 meters. On one side of the structure you can see an altar decorated with triglyphs (vertically standing stone slabs with triangular longitudinal grooves). By the way, on the site of the ruins in the middle of the last century, the popular picture "Three hundred Spartans" was filmed here. So, be sure to visit!

Lighthouse at Cape Malagawi

The lighthouse was built in the 19th century in the Perachor region in the northwest of Loutraki. At that time, this coast of Loutraki was actively used by ships and boats as a pier, but the rock near the coast was sometimes not visible during bad weather or fog. So, many ships just crashed on the rock. Therefore, it was decided to build a lighthouse 100 meters from the coast. This lighthouse is quite beautiful, made of light stone, with a green dome.

Thermal source(Georgiou Lekka 24)

Here's another health spot, so to speak. The 5,000 meter spa center is located in the city center, next to the Hotel Marko on L. Katsoni Street. In general, it should be noted that the mineral springs glorified Loutraki for a long time, even the Macedonian soldiers, and maybe he himself, came here to heal wounds received in military campaigns.
By the way, they say that Loutraki is the oldest thermal resort on earth. But the healing properties of local waters were officially recognized only in 1847, and eight years later they founded an enterprise for the exploitation of healing springs, providing services in the field of tourism and health. Thus, Loutraki became a spa resort by 1925.

You can drink water from the spring just like that. The use of mineral waters is indicated for diseases of the musculoskeletal system, liver and biliary tract, as well as for skin problems and neuralgia. In this spring, with a temperature of up to 30 degrees and in cold streams, they both bathe and do hydromassage - in general, they improve their health and come out of there refreshed.
There are mud baths, sauna and massages. Inexpressible feelings! Invigorates and relieves fatigue, tones and relaxes muscles. The pools are not very deep, just over a meter deep.

The spa is extremely popular with both tourists and locals. By the way, the springs are very beautifully decorated - small structures, similar to temples, with columns, mosaics, painted ceilings and walls, where you can see motifs from Greek myths. This is the oldest thermal center in the city, and there is also a newer and more stylish one on the same street. You can try the treatment once, or you can undergo a course of serious treatment, having previously signed up for a consultation with a doctor who will select the optimal course of procedures. If there is no time for long procedures, go for a short appointment, which costs about 18 euros for 1.5 hours. Hydromassage and swimming in the pool for 45 minutes costs 10 euros, half an hour - 8 euros, massage and swimming in the pool - about 25 euros. More serious procedures start at € 30. In the center there is a bar where you can drink tea or juice, as well as mineral water from the spring (free of charge). You can select and combine procedures as you like, besides, it is quite inexpensive. Changing rooms and lockers are free. There are Russian-speaking staff at the reception. The only drawback is that living on the territory of the spa center is not possible, therefore, if there is no strength to come back (where you came from), it is easier to rent a hotel or apartment, fortunately, in Loutraki they are quite inexpensive, compared, at least, with the nearest Corinth (one and a half to two times, for example, an apartment can be rented for 25-30 euros per day for two). Also in the center you can buy medicines based on these beneficial waters and muds and continue the treatment at home. Here is such a pearl of the city! Be sure to visit, you won't regret it!

Gerania Ridge

This is a miraculous attraction, a mountain range that stretches for five kilometers from north to south and 25 kilometers from east to west. The rocks are almost not covered with any vegetation, although there are also "oasis" islands. Loutraki is practically surrounded by the slopes of Gerania. The highest point of the mountains is Aetoraha (1105 m). The ridge will appeal to hikers, but climbers will be boring here. But the place is really beautiful, with many beautiful routes and trails, small churches and Byzantine monasteries along the way.

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Loutraki Monthly Weather:

* This table displays the average weather data collected over more than three years

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Loutraki Attractions

In principle, all the resort towns of Greece are somewhat similar to each other. Loutraki is not very different either. There is a variety of hotels (with different price points and service levels), many of them located in the hills of the mountains. We stayed in one of these hotels, so it took a long time to get to the beach. But this kind of charge is good.

I saw a lot of bored tourists who didn't know what to do in the city. There are really not many attractions in Loutraki, but you can easily get from it by bus or taxi to other famous places, for example, the temple of the goddess Hera, the ancient Greek Acropolis, Olympia, the ruins of Mycenae and Corinth.

Loutraki is famous for its casino, which is located in the "Club Hotel Casino Loutraki 5 *", the largest not only in Greece, but also in Europe. It works around the clock, seven days a week. But our company is not very fond of gambling, so we only came to see. We sat in a cozy bar, even met compatriots who were vigorously discussing their winnings.

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How much does a vacation in Loutraki cost? October 2014.

tour cost

I was very lucky with the weather. On the calendar it was October 7, and on the thermometer +30, and these +30 felt like 26, it was so comfortably warm, but not hot. The water was like fresh milk with little waves. Loutraki, a pebble beach, clean, well-groomed, not wide, even narrow in places. Everything is paid. Arrived in Athens, transfer at the expense of the tour operator. The voucher was also bought from a tour operator. Price for a week, breakfast + dinner for two - 50,000 rubles.

We lived in Loutraki, went on an excursion to Athens, a ticket cost 17 euros round trip, a bus rides an hour and a half. They also used the metro, very minimalist, the price depending on the number of days and trips from 1 euro to 20 euros. The price of the Acropolis is 10-15 euros, the queue is not big, but there is, there are also a lot of people walking around the ruins, although it was not even the season. National Archaeological Museum - 7 euros. There are many excursions from Loutrak, but they are all monotonous (forgive me), some ruins.

Food and groceries

We ate at the hotel, but a couple of times we had to eat in cafes and restaurants, so we came across expensive ones. I had to eat a couple of times in fast foods.

A glass of wine 5-10 euros, Dorada fish with garnish (three potatoes) - 20 euros. One skin, yes, bones, not full at all, but it came out not cheap.

Souvenirs and other goods

On the central streets of Athens, famous brands are presented, collections differ from Russian ones, prices are lower than in Russia, especially for the Zara brand, a chic bazaar in the old city, you will find everything and figurines and embroideries, tablecloths. Everything is very beautiful, take more money). Feel free to bargain at the bazaar and small shops. Prices are reduced no worse than in Egyptian bazaars. Plate 15 euros, figurines average 25 euros, expensive embroidery 40-50 euros. magnets from 1 euro to five.

Cost of services and entertainment

This vacation is for families without children, as there is no entertainment for children. But for a family who wants to relax in peace, see historical places and soak up the sun, this is ideal.

Total money spent on vacation

Useful information?

Where is the best place to stay?

Our hotel was called Possidonion (Cat. C, 2 stars). It was the cheapest one offered by the tour operator, but we didn’t regret taking it. The hotel is located on the second line (on the main street), on a square with a fountain, the sea was very close. We got a room on the second floor with a corner balcony and a view of the fountain. The room had two beds, bedside tables, a table, a mini-refrigerator, its own air conditioner, a TV (though we hardly watched it, since all the channels were Greek). Furniture and plumbing are normal. The garbage was taken out every day (if you leave the keys at the reception), the towels were changed once, the linen was not changed.

Breakfasts were good enough (I expected much worse from two stars). Every day there was such a set of products: slices of cheese and sausages, boiled eggs, fresh cucumbers, jam, butter, raisin cake, sesame buns, tea, coffee, milk, freshly squeezed orange juice.

The resort town of Loutraki itself is small, but cozy and calm. Loutraki are located on the coast of the Corinthian Gulf of the Ionian Sea. The embankment is long, quite beautiful, with palm trees. It breaks off a little in one place, then continues again. As usual in the resorts, a certain number of cafes and restaurants open onto the embankment. A distinctive feature of the resort is mineral water. It comes straight from the tap, tastes good. We boldly drank it, boiled tea and took it with us in a bottle on excursions. There are strong enough winds in the evening and in the morning. On our balcony, plastic chairs rolled, driven by the wind, from end to end of the balcony.

My friend and I went on an 8-day excursion tour "Treasures of the Peloponnese" with accommodation in the resort town of Loutraki (our tour cost 684 euros for breakfast). from St. Petersburg to Greece and back was through the Araxos airport. It takes about two hours to get to the Loutraki resort from the airport. The tour was organized in such a way that in the morning we went on excursions of various lengths (Athens, Mystra, St. Potapius Monastery, Patra, Olympia, Epidaurus, Nafplio, Mycenae, a cruise to the islands of Aegina, Agistri), and in the evening we could relax and swim in the sea in Loutraki. The tour was eventful, we really enjoyed it. We usually returned from excursions at 5-6 pm.

In the evening, after the excursions, we went swimming every day. The water was warm, 22-23 degrees. The beach in Loutraki is pebbly. The pebbles are different. From the edge where we usually stayed, it is large, towards the center of the beach - smaller. Just from 7 to 9 pm, the temperature on the beach was already more or less comfortable. Once they came early, about 5 o'clock - it was very hot. It's sunset at 9 pm. In Loutraki it is very beautiful - the sun sets behind the mountains.

In general, as we were told, this resort is positioned as an inexpensive resort for Greek pensioners (not very far from Athens, about 80 km) and budget-conscious foreigners. There were not very many Russian tourists, mostly Greeks (elderly and families with children), the last two days there was a big arrival of Poles. There were a lot of them both in our hotel and on the beach.

What can you buy?

In our part of the resort there was one large SPAK supermarket, small grocery stores, several shops with clothes and shoes.

About the prices of goods

There were several cheap outlets with T-shirt sundresses for 5 euros (the sellers are Vietnamese) and Greek leather sandals and handmade slippers for 15-25 euros. The prices in the supermarket are "tourist", but practically did not differ from ours, Russian ones. Sweet cherries (very large) were taken at about 4 euros per kg, apricots, peaches, nectarines at 3 euros per kg.

Only local oranges were cheap - 0.6 euros per kg (in appearance they are not very beautiful, some scratched, but tasty, sweet). They also took a watermelon (red, but not very sweet) and a melon like our "collective farm woman". Watermelons and melons are not very expensive. They sell inexpensive red salad onions (sweet!). This onion is somewhat similar in taste to a good Crimean flat sweet onion.

We bought olive oil and Greek delight as Greek souvenirs. From alcohol I took Metaxa and some kind of dry wine (nothing special, but I took it at random). Of the Greek wines described by tourists, only the sweet "Mavrodafni from Patras" was tasted (not bad, but I would not say super). The rest was taken at random. Drank 1.5 liters of local rose wine in plastic packaging (not bad) and one white bottle. We usually dined with wine, supermarket snacks (mussels, crabs, dzaziki, sausage, cheese) and fruit on our wonderful balcony, watching the resort's nightlife and enjoying the view of the fountain.

Where can I eat?

We didn't go to restaurants on our own, we didn't have much time or energy.

About the quality of food and service

We tried various dishes of Greek cuisine on excursions, when our group was brought in for lunch in an organized manner. I didn't like the octopus (like rubber), the rest of the dishes (fish, meat, etc. were quite good). The average cost of a lunch for one person is 13-15 euros.

On the coast of the Gulf of Corinth, the most famous resort in Southern Greece is located - the picturesque town of Loutraki. The second name of the city is "Loutrakion".

Translated from Greek means "healing baths". This is one of the best places where you can restore health thanks to the healing qualities of mineral waters that flow here directly from the taps and city fountains.

Travel to Loutraki will appeal not only to those wishing to enjoy a calm and peaceful vacation, but also to those who like entertainment. After all, here you can walk all night until morning along the three-kilometer embankment, along which countless bars and discos are open.

How to get to Loutraki?

The health resort belongs to the prefecture of Corinthia.

Loutraki can be reached by bus, both from Athens and from the city of Corinth.

Fans of observing stunning landscapes are recommended to go on a bus trip from the Greek capital, as the journey will take about two hours (while the journey from Corinth will take about twenty minutes), giving travelers the opportunity to see all the beauty of the impressive natural panoramas, enjoy the lush diverse flora , and thanks to small cozy streets to fall in love with real Mediterranean villages.

Loutraki weather essentials

Benevolent Loutrakion attracts tourists not only with amazing landscapes and mineral springs, but also with a favorable Mediterranean climate.

The sun reigns here 340 days a year... The summer season runs from May to October. The hottest month is July.

Those wishing to visit this beautiful town in July, be sure to stock up on sunscreens and hide your heads in panamas, hats and caps so that your vacation is not overshadowed by sunstrokes or severe skin burns. The average air temperature in the summer season is + 28- + 30 ° С, and the water temperature is + 24- + 26 ° С.

One of the features of the "storehouse of medicinal waters" is that on one side the city is washed by the Gulf of Corinth, and on the north and north-west it is surrounded by mountains.

Such a pronounced change in relief leaves an indelible positive impression: here you go down the bus along a branchy mountain road, then find yourself among small elegant houses and already step on a long, seemingly endless coast.

The beaches of Loutraki are ecologically clean, mostly sandy, in places with small pebbles. The sea water in the Gulf of Corinth is pure and clear. Vacationers can enjoy scuba diving, surfing and sailing, water skiing and motorbiking.

Read also: Temple of Zeus at Olympia: history, attractions, statue of Zeus, visit to Olympia

Sights of Loutraki as a heritage of Ancient Greece

The city of Loutrakion is in itself an expressive landmark that demonstrates the real ancient civilization and is able to immerse you in the mysterious and mysterious times of Ancient Olympus.

• Monastery of Agios Potapios (Osios Patapios)... It is the most favorite destination for travelers. It was founded in 1952 and is located on Mount Geranea at an altitude of 700 meters.

  From the panoramic platform on the territory of the monastery, guests have a delightful scenic view of the surroundings of Loutraki. From here you can observe a breathtaking vista over the two seas - the Ionian and the Aegean.

  The impression from the view of the incredibly beautiful territory of the Greek town will remain in the memories of everyone who can climb the long wide stone stairs while climbing to the monastery.

• Ruins of the Temple of Hera... Another great attraction.

  Until now, archaeologists cannot determine the exact time when the structure was founded. The Temple of Hera is located near the settlement of Perachora in the northwest of Loutrakion. Complementing the mystical ancient Greek architectural ensemble is the lighthouse at Cape Malagavi.

  The Temple of Hera is a legendary all over the world sanctuary, whose former splendor can be admired by looking at the impressive ancient columns of the temple, as well as the preserved mosaic. The architectural complex consists of two sections, separated by a sacred reservoir. Archaeologists have discovered here a large number of objects that were used in ancient Greece for sacral rituals.

Loutrakion is one of the few cities in Greece where a summer cinema called "Electra" functions to this day. It is located in a wonderful area next to the sea, surrounded by a natural green landscape.

Lovers of the history of ancient Greece will also be interested in being in the Katunistra region. An ancient Roman villa was discovered here, the complex of which included a number of luxurious baths and an amazingly well-designed structure of the building itself.

Loutraki Hotels

The seaside Greek resort gives a warm welcome to every guest.

For example, hotel Edemu the foot of the mountain near the village of Aridea. A cozy three-star hotel offers guests a comfortable stay surrounded by lush greenery and clean mountain air.

Small HotelAegli 3 * located in the center of Loutraki, very popular with tourists due to its proximity to attractions and local traditional cafes, taverns and shops.

Hotel Kosmopolit 2 * can provide vacationers with small comfortable rooms and the ability to walk to the city beach in 10 minutes.

But to the hotel Loutraki Palace4 * lovers of luxury and large spacious territory go.

In this town, you can find hotels for every taste - an expensive and luxurious hotel with a private beach on the seashore or a simple and inexpensive guesthouse in the center of Loutraki? It is up to you to choose.

But no matter what hotel you choose, in any you can enjoy the comfort and tranquility, immerse yourself in the mysterious atmosphere of Mediterranean hospitality, meet the sunrise surrounded by quiet secluded streets, spend unforgettable evenings watching the sunset give way to the night sky and erase the border with the exciting sea.

From Athens you can always go on a day trip to the town Loutraki located on the shore Gulf of Corinth Ionian Sea. For a weekend trip, the most suitable distance from the capital is just under 100 km along a beautiful three-lane highway.

The city itself in terms of architecture does not represent anything historical and entertaining - a typical Greek urban development of the new era, but the location is right on the shore, balneology (mineral water flows from the tap and right on the street), the presence of a casino, 7 Orthodox monasteries, a lake with a sea water, the ancient excavations of the Temple of Hera make Loutraki attractive destination for the Athenians.

In addition, there are not so many places in Greece for the city (and not the resort village) to be located right on the shore and you can leave the house a couple of steps and start swimming. Therefore, by the way, housing prices are higher than the usual level for the Greek resort real estate and are quite close to the capital prices (say, 2000-3000 euros per sq.m. even in the conditions of the beginning of the crisis in Greece). Many Athenians, instead of a country house, have just an apartment there, especially since the town is small and even from the outskirts it is still no more than 15 minutes walk to the sea. However, the Russians are also acquiring real estate there :)

In recent years Loutraki became also a popular place for tourists from the former USSR - tour operators, in addition to the above, assessed the geographical location - equidistance from popular archaeological excavations and historical sites: Corinth, Mycenae, Nafplio, Olympia, Delphi etc. Therefore, the presence of the Russian language in the city is felt: taverns and souvenir shops with an inscription in Russian, advertising for a fur coat store is also in Russian, etc. There is an Arbat store with Russian goods (turn around the corner of the Grand Elite hotel). Other foreigners speak German on the streets.

But it's better to see once, of course. So, some photos (all clickable) of the town Loutraki and other attractions in the area (most of the photos were taken on October 4 and 11, 2009).

Exit towards Loutraki from the Athens-Corinth highway (in front of the Corinth Canal)

Road with eucalyptus trees in Loutraki off the track Athens-Corinth, the entrance to the city and the central street of Loutraki (was removed from the car on the go, so the quality is not very good). The Russian flag on the street is no longer an accident :)

It is worth noting that in summer travel along the main street is very difficult, the traffic is large. Therefore, if you need to head towards the hotels "Pappas", "Posidonas" or towards the lake, Temple of Hera and Perachora, then it is worth choosing a path along the new ring road. A small section is not yet ready, you need to get to the blue-white building of the Ivy mineral water plant and immediately turn right, soon you will see fresh district asphalt.

Oh, all familiar faces! ... The inscription reads "There is only one leader!"

Construction of a new building balneological hospital v Loutraki already finished. The construction of an outdoor swimming pool is in full swing and should be completed by the summer of 2010. The establishment is municipal, so the prices are divine (or divine?). If I remember correctly, a dip in a radon pool is 5 euros, the same + a sauna is 9 euros.

Examples of new architecture in Loutraki: houses in front of the entrance to the city and the city high-rise building

Fishing pier and cruise ship in Loutraki that carries tourists to Corinth Canal

Park at the end of the embankment Loutraki, there is a playground there and cafes and taverns start from there (one of the photos shows the monastery of the Prophet Elijah high on the mountain)

The spring is "two-faced", on the one hand there is mineral water, on the other - tap water. Tap water in Loutraki is also mineral, only purified. Those. just delicious drinking water, and the presence of salts is felt in the mineral water.

Promenade and beach Loutraki, with a blue flag for cleanliness, by the way

Loutraki embankment and Achilion hotel

In the end Loutraki at the exit near the old building of balneology there are waterfalls with mineral water, next to a cafe, a large parking lot and a view of the city

After passing the waterfalls, you leave Loutraki in the direction of monasteries, the village of Perachora and Lake Vulyagmeni past the Posidonas hotel. The road is a normal Greek country road: slightly winding narrow asphalt with the following views:

On the way there will be a complex of two taverns "Eden" and "Panorama", and the cafe "Egli", made in the original style. The taverns offer a wonderful view of the Corinthian Gulf and Lake Vulyagmenis, in the evening the taverns are beautifully illuminated.

After passing the taverns, there will be a fork to Perachora and to the right up to the monasteries. During the day, only the monastery of St. Potapius is open, the rest are closed for lunch. Therefore, depending on the time of day, you can choose: go directly to the monasteries or first to the village of Perachora, to the lake, the lighthouse and the temple of Hera.

Perachora- a fairly large and pleasant-looking village. The story goes that next to the temple of Hera there was an ancient city, which is now under water, and it was located opposite Corinth on the opposite bank of the bay, the Corinthians called it "the feather of the choir" - "the city further / the city opposite". One of the beauties of Perahora is the presence of a local shop right on the road. olive oil producer, which is held, by the way, by the head of the district administration (unless, of course, he lost his post after the last local elections). It is very easy to find a store - at the entrance there will be a U-shaped fork: to the right into the village, to the left towards the lake and the temple of Hera, we go left and immediately after the fork there will be a store. Inside you can find good quality olive oil, many types of olives, many of which are made according to unique recipes, olive oil soap and other local products: honey, wine, capers, herbal teas, etc. The man is very fond of Russians and his occupation, so he treats him with his products with might and main and makes small gifts to clients. In short, we packed ourselves up with butter, honey and giant white olives with garlic and drove on.

Perachora, "olive shop"

Perachora, "olive shop"

Perachora, "olive shop"

Perachora, "olive shop"

Perachora, "olive shop"

Perachora, "olive shop"

If you drive a little from Perahora to the other side into the mountains above the village, you can enjoy another beautiful view, as well as admire the wild-growing flower beds of cyclamen under the olives

We return to Perachora and we continue towards the lake, about 10 kilometers. The lake was once freshwater, but then a narrow channel opened, which now connects the lake with the sea and the water is, of course, salty. The reservoir has two names - Lake Vulyagmenis(not to be confused with the lake of the same name located in the Athenian region of Vulagmeni) or Lake Ireu(after the name of the excavations of the temple of Hera, which in Greek are called Ireo or in Russian Heraion). However, in antiquity the lake was called in another way "Eskhotis". The lake is large and beautiful, surrounded by green mountains. When in Loutraki the winds are blowing, then everyone comes here to swim.

There are several fish taverns around the lake, the first two meet immediately at the point where the road leads to the lake shore. Others are further away if you go sideways Temple of Hera going around the lake on the right. The largest tavern on that side (by the way, open also in winter) is called "Lindo".

You can feed the flocks of anchovies running along the coast with bread and see the "fish chaos" - the struggle for their daily bread :)

Loutraki, Lake Vulagmenis, "Lindo" tavern

Loutraki, Lake Vulagmenis, "Lindo" tavern

Loutraki, Lake Vulagmenis, "Lindo" tavern

Loutraki, Lake Vulagmenis, "Lindo" tavern

There is another smaller tavern next to Lindo, which is open in summer and on weekends during the rest of the year. To call in to it, having gone round "Lindo" from above.

In front of the tavern there is a small boat dock and a small man-made decorative rock with variations on the Greek maritime theme :) In the distance you can see a small church near the canal connecting the lake with the sea.

The beach of the lake in front of the "Lindo" tavern is sandy, very pleasant with sun loungers and umbrellas. Two local seagulls can accompany the swimmers. There are also water sports.

Admire a tiny church located right on the seashore and painted in the typical Cycladic blue and white colors

And sit down for coffee at the Ypanema waterfront bar-restaurant

Very nice place, good music, eucalyptus trees, tables next to the sea. True, the prices are at the level of Athens, but the place is very pleasant, I don't want to leave there. Nearby there is an organized beach with umbrellas and sun loungers, volleyball court, water sports. There is a parking lot for customers.

Loutraki is located at the base of a small peninsula, on the edge of which, in the very west, at Cape Melagavi, as you might guess, there is a lighthouse built in 1897. South and north coast visible Gulf of Corinth, the mountains of Boeotia, in the distance Loutraki and Corinth. A very beautiful place, many come and sit there for a long time on the edge of the rocks, relax. It is especially beautiful in the evening before sunset.

There are excavations under the lighthouse on the shore of a small cove Temple of Hera so the place is called Herayon(Irao in Greek). The place itself is very beautiful and the excavations are interesting, you can see a stone cistern and the foundations of the columns of the temple, more precisely, of two temples. Above the excavations there is, as it were, a balcony, a small church of St. John. There is a small beach under the excavation. Somewhere near the coast in the sea there should be a sunken ancient city. Apparently, for this reason, a free diving championship was held in this place a couple of years ago. By the way, when you live in Greece and see ancient excavations all the time, it is somehow difficult to be impressed with new ones (especially after the Acropolis, Corinth, Delphi, Olympia). But I don't want to leave this place, there is some kind of energetic point, a unique combination of antiquity, Orthodoxy, sea and rocks. After spending some time there, you notice that other people are also in no hurry to leave this place. Yes, admission is free, by the way.

Well, now to monasteries, of which in the area Loutraki 7 pieces: St. Potapius, St. John, St. Gerasim, St. Stephen, St. Nicholas, Holy Trinity and Prophet Elijah. The monastery of the Holy Trinity is located to the right of Loutraki, if you look from the side of the Corinth Canal, St. Nicholas and Stephen somewhere above the road to the lake, perhaps the dirt road leads there, next time we will find out. And the other four monasteries are located above Loutraki, there is an asphalt road. The first on the way are convents located opposite each other. St. Gerasimos(to the right of the road) and St john(left).

Monastery of Saint John small, in the church there are copies of the icons of the Mother of God and the Birth of St. John, the originals of which are on Mount Athos, there is also one old icon of the Mother of God, blackened from time. There is a church shop to the right of the entrance. The monastery closes at lunchtime from 14-30 to 16-30.

The most important thing is that the Old Believer monastery and representatives of the modern Greek Church do not favor schismatics, as well as vice versa.

Monastery of Saint Gerasimos Kefalonian is much larger in territory and is located on the edge of a cliff with a beautiful panoramic view of the Corinthian Gulf. At the very edge of the monastery courtyard, a platform was built on which a large cross rises, which is visible from afar and is illuminated at night. The monastery has two churches, one larger and the other smaller. The bell tower, in contrast to the generally accepted for Greek churches, was built right on the ground in the form of three arches, through which you can see the sea and Lake Vouliagmenis. There is a large church shop.

The Peloponnese peninsula is rich in sights. One of them is the town of Loutraki. Surrounded by mountains, it is known throughout the world for its healing springs. The picturesque coastline of the Gulf of Corinth and the peak of Gerania make this city truly enchanting.

Loutraki is the center of the Loutraki-Perachora region. 21 thousand people live on 197 thousand square kilometers of the city's area. Loutraki is 84 kilometers away from Athens; the resort is closest in relation to Corinth (4 kilometers).

Since the recognition of the city as a health resort (1925), it still remains the most popular Greek health resort.

The local climate is healing in itself. The purest untouched nature welcomes guests. The mild Mediterranean climate, fresh sea air - everything turned out perfectly for the city where people come for treatment. The hot Greek sun warms the earth for 340 days a year, with the hottest period being July. In winter, Loutraki will not be taken by surprise by snowfalls or frosts, and therefore the tourist will enjoy the rest even in February. The holiday season starts in May and ends in October.

The sea waters are warm and calm, so vacationers with children will not have to worry about safety. The sea warms up to 26 degrees. Summer is a great time to enjoy the fresh azure surface. Complementing Loutraki's charming painting will be a pine scent that permeates the air.

History

The territory of Loutraki has been known for a long time. In ancient times, the city of Terme was located here, where people came from various parts of Greece to the hot springs. It was believed that this place was loved by the Olympic gods. Patronized the city and all the springs Artemis Thermia (that is, "hot"). The current name of the city also originated from sources: the meaning of the Greek word "Loutra" - "healing baths".

The modern city gained wide popularity and its colorful history in 1847. It was then that the healing qualities of the waters of Loutraki, as well as the beneficial effect of bathing in the springs, became known to Italians. The outbreak of interest in the territory led to the settlement of the land by Greek settlers and the founding of a city here.

The Corinthian earthquake of 1928 practically razed Loutraki to the ground. Several buildings have survived, located on the promontory between the current park and the hot springs. The city was rebuilt, however, given the seismic activity, the builders used modern technologies to protect the buildings from destruction. Simple structures were erected, mostly two-story. These buildings are now located in the central area of ​​the city. The ruins after the earthquake, as well as the soil that came down from the hill, was used to create a park on the northern coast of Loutraki. At that time they also erected a hydrotherapy hospital, made in a traditionally round shape. The interior is decorated with rich mosaics. 1981 brought a new wave of damage. After that, the Loutraki were restored again.

Another visiting card of Loutraki is the casino. The first gambling establishment was built in 1930, and the current one has been operating since 1995. Club Hotel Casino Loutraki is one of the largest European entertainment complexes. There is a wonderful view from the slope of the mountain where the casino is located. So tourists from 23 years old will have something to do besides health improvement.

Resort town

The rejuvenating effect of the waters of Loutraki has been known since the days of the gods of Olympus. They loved to spend their holidays here, bathing in healing springs. Perhaps this was the reason for their longevity. Following the era of the gods, the era of people began who appreciated the living power of water. Under the Romans, baths were built where residents bathed. The Byzantines erected temples near the springs, where priests were engaged in the treatment of diseases. Scientific confirmation of the healing properties of the waters only increased the popularity of Loutraki, and the active development of the resort began.

The spring water is rich in magnesium and sodium and tastes good. The temperature of the sources exceeds 30 degrees. You can drink water for drinking without limiting the amount, while drinking it is allowed directly from sources. The unique chemical composition and effect on the body makes Loutraki water truly alive. Local water therapy helps with diseases of the cardiovascular and nervous system, problems with the gastrointestinal tract. Also, the sources have a beneficial effect on those suffering from liver failure, kidney stone disease, they are used for gynecological, skin, joint diseases. The modern hydropathic facility is equipped with modern devices for various water procedures.

Excursion rest

The centuries-old history of Loutraki attracts those who seek to learn more about the history of the ancient state here. The atmosphere of the city streets, buildings, buildings - everything is saturated with the air of the past. The tourist immediately finds himself in the rapid whirlpool of local life. Here natural beauty and the crazy rhythm of the city, the memory of the past and the present are intertwined. Such a mixture bewitches the traveler, immerses him in an atmosphere of mystery and mystery.

The excursion program Loutraki takes tourists to mythical stories. The maze of the city, where the past and the present coexist, leads to iconic landmarks, braiding the path into the ball of Arianda, leading it to revelation and discovery.

It is best to start your walk and get to know the city from the Temple of the Hydra. The legendary monument rises above the city, shrouded in the greenery of Perachora. The captivating picture is complemented by the Cape Malagavi lighthouse, which served as a guiding star for Greek sailors. The temple of the Hydra begins its history in the Roman times of Loutraki, but historians still have not been able to find out more exact dates for the construction of the structure. Such mystery only lures travelers to the ruins of the memorial even more. The beautiful mosaics of the temple, as well as marble slabs, have survived to this day.

The next stopping point of the excursion will be the lagoon at the Gulf of Corinth. Archaeologists have discovered the remains of an ancient civilization here. The surviving vases and household appliances tell the story of the life of the inhabitants of the ancient settlement of the Bronze Age.

The temples of Poseidon and Helios deserve special attention. The population of the city says that the deities clashed here in a bloody battle, trying to divide the power over the area. Having divided the possessions of Loutraki, Poseidon and Helios erected monuments to themselves. The Temple of Poseidon has been the center of religious life since the 11th century BC, a precious treasure that attracted foreigners. During the reign of the Romans, they erected a large-scale monument to the god of the sea.

Perachora is a real historical treasure. The northern territories of Loutraki, surrounded by the peaks of Gerania, were the place of worship for the Hydra. In the 10th century she was canonized and worshiped. Present-day Perachora is a small settlement hiding numerous mysteries of the past.

The most famous beach in the city is Loutraki Beach. The pebbled gray surface contrasts sharply with the clear waters of the Ionian Sea. The northern part of the beach has mineral springs, so you can combine relaxation with health improvement. The territory is quite narrow, but tourists love this place very much. Sun loungers and umbrellas can be rented. Leaving the beach, you can look into one of the local cafes, bars, restaurants serving delicious local cuisine. All kinds of seafood deserve special attention. They are caught right outside the restaurants, so the freshness remains without a doubt. Add local wine to your meal to get the most out of the resort atmosphere. The oriental influence on the cuisine of the area adds bright colors to the seemingly familiar dishes of Greece, and the hospitality of the townspeople makes the warm lands even cozier.

Walking along the Embankment is also a stunning sight. Hotels and sanatoriums lead to it. The endless expanses of the sea, kilometers of beaches, combined with the warm Mediterranean climate, create ideal conditions for relaxation. Locals often swim even in winter, when the air temperature drops to 10 degrees Celsius. For those who are not ready for extreme sports, there are softer options: stock up on a cup of coffee from nearby cafes and walk, or sit down at a table at one of the restaurants overlooking the sea.

The peculiarity of local beaches is that the tourist does not have to pay money for sun beds and umbrellas. At least in their material terms. The payment is a cup of coffee or tea, a glass of water, juice, purchased in local cafes. The equipment usually belongs to such establishments, so you need to order something from the menu from the waiter - and you can enjoy your rest even all day long. What's more interesting, you don't even need to leave the sea to place an order, because the waiters come by themselves.

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sights

Loutraki

The city of Loutraki is located on the shores of the Gulf of Corinth. This world-famous resort is a center of medical tourism.
The infrastructure of Loutraki is well developed. Fans of water sports are offered diving, surfing, fishing. For visiting tourists, a football field, sports grounds, tennis courts are open. You can relax in cafes, restaurants, cinemas. There are many shops and jewelry stores in the city.

The central square deserves special attention. It is from here that a journey through the city begins. The historical name of the square "March 25" symbolizes the Greek uprising against the Turks in 1821.

The embankment is a popular place among local and visiting youth. There are hotels, restaurants, cafes, night discos, as well as the largest casino in Europe.

The old church of St. Andrew, founded in 1345, is one of the religious attractions. The centuries-old altar and iconostasis are kept here. According to legends, in a cave under the church, Andrew the First-Called was hiding from his pursuers.
The monastery of St. Marina is located in an incredibly picturesque place. While walking through its territory, tourists feel peace and tranquility.

Monastery of St. Potapius

At an altitude of 1000 m above the city of Loutraki, there is the monastery of St. Potapius. 144 steps lead to the top of the mountain on which the monastery stands. According to legend, having climbed the steps, one can be cleansed from sins.

It is believed that Saint Patapius lived in a cave at the top of the hill. A monastery was erected on this place in 1952 and dedicated to St. Patapia. In the rock where he lived, there was a church decorated with ancient frescoes. During the reconstruction of the cave at the beginning of the 20th century, the relics of St. Potapius were discovered. The relics are kept in a cave along with ancient frescoes and are the main treasures of the temple.

The observation deck offers stunning views of the surroundings.

The temple is open to tourists. On its territory there is a church shop where you can buy rare icons. Today, 40 nuns live in the convent.

Thermal springs

The main asset and value of Loutraki are its thermal springs, which brought the city world fame. Loutraki is a legendary health resort. Even in ancient times, hospitals, baths and temples were built here, which have a healing effect on the body. Since ancient times, people believed that the sources of Loutraki are able to heal, rejuvenate, restore strength and vigor.

The healing properties of thermal springs are not at all a legend or a myth. With the help of chemical analysis, scientists have established that the unique waters contain magnesium, sodium and mineral salts. They are able to calm a shattered nervous system and heart, cure arthritis, skin diseases and other ailments. Many women come to Loutraki to get rid of gynecological problems. Miraculous mineral waters and pine-soaked air fight for the health and longevity of residents and guests of the city.
Today, you can improve your health in a modern hydrotherapy center built in the city. In the center you can undergo a whole course of treatment, swim in pools with thermal water, visit a sauna. Also on the territory of the center there is a beauty salon, a restaurant, a bar and a recreation area.

Those who want to enjoy nature and improve their health at the same time, go to the Loutraki waterfall. A thermal waterfall is located near the village of Perekhora. Crowds of tourists gather here, wishing to swim in the pool with mineral waters. The area around is well equipped. There is a cafe with a terrace, which offers an incredible view of the coast of Loutraki.

Lighthouse at Cape Malagawi

The lighthouse at Cape Malagawi is located in a picturesque area in the northwest of Loutraki. It was built in 1897 to protect sea vessels and fishing boats from wrecks. In the 19th century, in bad weather, many ships crashed on a rock near the coast. Literally 100 meters from the shore, a beautiful lighthouse was erected from light stone.

Today the lighthouse is very popular with tourists. Against the backdrop of stunning views, natural landscape and the beauty of the lighthouse itself, magnificent photographs are obtained.

Sanctuary "Perachora Gereon"

To the north-west of Loutraki there is another historical landmark - the "Perachora Gereon" Sanctuary. The lighthouse at Cape Malagawi will be an excellent landmark in the search for the most ancient sanctuary.

The ruins are located in a picturesque place surrounded by the sea, mountains and pine trees. The first building appeared here in the 8th century BC. It was an arched temple that has not survived to this day. In the 6th century BC. in its place, a temple was erected in honor of the ancient Greek goddess and patroness of marriage, Hera. The sanctuary was built in the shape of a triangle, decorated with an altar on one side.
The ruins of the sanctuary are also famous for the fact that in the 60s of the last century the famous film "Three hundred Spartans" was filmed here.

Gerania ridge

Loutraki is literally surrounded by the Gerania mountain range. Hikers are happy to go to the slopes of the mountains. There are several interesting and picturesque trails here, where you can find old Byzantine churches, monasteries, buildings and other attractions. The highest point is Mount Aetorahi.