As the summer holiday season approaches, tourists are setting up a Greek island again, where the Greek island heads next. For example, you can be sure that most people will settle in some of the most famous countries, Santorini, Mykonos and Corfu.
But there are plenty of lesser known gems that offer all the beauty these hotspots do, but you won't be without the same number of tourists raw. This tiny, pine-covered island has untouched beaches and crystal clear waters, making it the perfect choice. It is located in Salonic Bay not too far from Athens and has become a popular destination for weekend getaways from the capital. It may be small, but it really packs punches.
The English “fishing hook” Agistri is a small, populous island near Agina and Porus' neighbours. It occupies an area of only five square miles, so there are only three settlements: Milos (Megarokori), Scala and Limenaria. Although most of the population lives in Milos, Scala is the location of most tourist facilities and hotels.
Agistri is a pine-covered island and was recognized as a “green island” in 2011 by Piraeus and the National Institute of Technology of Athens. While the center is covered in pine forests, there is a wide range of plans including wild cyclamen, thyme, caper bushes, and thistles.
Meanwhile, the rocky East Coast has been used as a breeding ground for swifts and has become a paradise for bird lovers. There is also a remarkable population of Piafold, originally introduced but has since become wild.
According to mythology, the island's name, “Hook,” owes to a traveler who has been “infatuated” by its beauty, has reached the coast, is captivated, and inevitably decided to stay forever.
The island is home to Aponisos and Dragonla on the west coast, Megalokori and Scala beaches in the north, Mariza to the south, and some incredible beaches in Skrili and Harikiada to the east, especially Aponisos and Dragonla on the west coast.
For those who want to go a little more adventure, Agistri is also a popular destination for outdoor sports, such as hiking, cycling, kayaking, and horse riding.
Megalochori is also famous for its windmills run in the 1960s. Today there is only one hotel called Milos in the village. Here you can take a stroll through the narrow paved streets adjacent to traditional stone houses filled with flowers and courtyards. The Megalohori is connected to Scala by bus, but if you want to experience the views on foot, the walk is only 15-20 minutes.
Aromatics and herbs, capers, olive oil, almonds and figs are just some of the products found in taverns and shops in Agistri. Traditional treats include the amygdala (almond-based sweets), galactobreco (phyllopes dyed in syrup with custard filling), and tiganite and diple (fried dough, dripping on honey). Meanwhile, Fish Taverna serves seafood directly from Salonic Bay.
Agistri can be reached from Agina in many boats in just 10 minutes, via the Agistri Express or many small “water taxis”. We also ride a boat just an hour from Piraeus Port on the mainland.
