One of Greece’s best kept secrets, Spetses Island, often referred to as Isola di Spezie meaning ‘island of the spices’. A name given to the island by the Venetians because of the many herbs growing on its mountains. Spetses is a charming island with unique architecture, culture, and cuisine. Here, Photographer Oriana Senia shares her bespoke guide to the island, including where to dine, swim, and what to do.
Greek Islands: A Mini Guide To Spetses
HOW TO ACCESS SPETSES
An interesting part about the island is that visitors cannot bring or hire a car. The only way to arrive is via ferry. Despite being a cosmopolitan destination, the island is characterised by a calm ambience. Once you’re on the island, you can hire a bike or motorbike to help you access remote beaches and locations.
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WHAT TO DO
Spetses is very close to Athens, you can do a day trip, as it is both easy to get to and worth visiting. Take a walk around the island and the town. The little cobblestone streets and the quaint alleys will introduce to you magnificent scenery, ideal for your next swimwear photoshoot.
Go on a day trip to nearby destinations. Take advantage of the island’s convenient location and the frequency of ferry itineraries and go to Hydra, Poros, or the regions of Ermioni and Porto Heli in the Peloponnese.
Visit the historical and cultural sites. Spetses is an island with a long history and tradition in shipping, which is why most of its attractions are related to the sea and ships. The Old Harbor and the boatyards around it are spots that every traveler should visit! The island's lighthouse is one of the first in Greece.
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WHERE TO DINE
PATRALIS FISH TAVERN - The oldest tavern in Spetses, family owned and established in 1935. The restaurant serves fresh seafood and tasty traditional food.
MOURAYO RESTAURANT - Award winning serving Mediterranean cuisine and Greek specialties, set against stunning views of the sea.
ON THE VERANDAH - Located within the Poseidonion Grand Hotel, here you will find exceptional fine dining of contemporary Greek dishes.
TARSANAS - Purveyors of the highest quality fresh fish and seafood. Located in the heart of the Old Harbour, this is truely a catch to table dining experience.
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WHERE TO SWIM
The majority of beaches offer parasols, sun-beds, and at least one cafe or restaurant at a close distance. During summer, tourist boats depart from Dapia and circumnavigate the island to charming western beaches, perfect for snorkeling and sunbathing in your stylish swimwear and bikini tops.
AGIOI ANARGIRI - A fantastic snorkelling spot with refreshing crystalline waters and a stone-filled seabed.
ZOGERIA - The beach of Zogeria is a paradisiacal place. Located in a cove covered by a dense, verdant pine forest. Loved by locals for its azure blue waters and unique backdrop.
PARASKEVI - A remote location and fine golden sands await. Said to be one of the best beaches in Spetses, due to its mesmerising clear waters.
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Photographer: Oriana Senia Model: Theopisti Pourliotopoulou