‘Unexpected’ Greek Destination Featured by The New York Times as One of the Best of 2023

At number 39 in the New York Times ranking is a great tourist destination (Methana, Greece), which came as a surprise.

The place is located just a few kilometers from Athens, in the Saronic Gulf, and therefore was proposed as one of the 52 destinations to visit in 2023, while it should be noted that this is the only Greek destination that was included.

The reason for the peculiarity of Methana (Μέθανα) is its “volcanic soil”, hospitable inhabitants and, of course, crystal clear sea waters and wonderful beaches. In addition, all those who visited Methana felt the beneficial properties of thermal waters. Certainly there are many reasons for inclusion of Methane (Μέθανα) in the list of the bestwrites travel-inspiration.gr.

1. Thermal springs

Thermal springs of Methane, the result of intense volcanic activity, have been famous for thousands of years for their effective and saving effect on human health and beauty. They have been known since ancient times for their healing properties, especially in rheumatic and skin diseases.

There are three completely different springs in Methane, easily accessible to the visitor. “Methana Volcanic Spa”, located in the city of Methana, is the most organized point for the use of therapeutic baths. Other thermal springs of Methana: the baths of Pausanias (named after the ancient Greek writer and geographer who wrote about the thermal spring), the Karastamatis spring. Access to them is free.

Thermal springs “Bani Pausanias” (Λουτρά του Παυσανία) have a temperature of 34–36°C and are characterized as sulfide (hydrogen sulfide), oligomineral and low carbon. The main components are: sodium chloride (NaCl), magnesium sulfate (MgSO4), calcium chloride (CaCl2), 4. magnesium chloride (MgCl2), potassium chloride (KCl), magnesium bicarbonate Mg (HCO3) 2, sodium dioxide H2S. They are indicated for such diseases as chronic rheumatism, arthritis, chronic gout, skin diseases (eczema, dermatitis, psoriasis, pruritus, urticaria, etc.). Also for back pain, sciatica, rickets, all types of neuralgia, disorders of the neurophysiological system, disorders of the endocrine glands, diseases of the nose and larynx, chronic bronchitis and bronchial asthma.

2. Underwater and terrestrial craters of the peninsula

Methana Volcano belongs to the volcanic arc of the southern Aegean Sea and showed intense volcanic activity from 276 to 239 BC. The volcanic eruption, according to well-known ancient historians, refers to the period of the reign of Antigonus Gonatas (277-240 BC). Ovid mentions that the surrounding area was a vast and fertile plain, but a violent eruption permanently covered most of it with huge volumes of lava and ash. At the foot of the volcano there is a unique village, the so-called Kammeni Hora, with a steep slope to the north of the settlement, covered with dark volumes of solidified lava, forming landscapes of rare specificity and beauty.

3. Beaches of Metana

The Methana Peninsula has several organized and unorganized beaches, in tranquil coves and rocky coasts, with natural beauty and crystal clear blue waters. These include: Limniona, Agios Theodoros, EOT beach, Agios Georgios, Kounoupitsa and Agios Nikolaos, Almyra in Paleokastro, Pausanias and Palia Loutra (14 km northwest of Methana), Kalloni (19 km southwest of Methana) .

Galatas lemon forest

The forest has almost 30,000 lemon trees and, despite being abandoned, it remains one of the most romantic landscapes of the Saronic Gulf, which enchants with its wonderful aromas.

Devil’s Bridge Gorge

Diavologefiro (devil’s bridge) dominates Trizinia. The visitor has the opportunity to contemplate a landscape of exceptional natural beauty, combined with monuments such as the Hellenistic tower, the ruins of a Byzantine church and the ancient Asclepeion.

Islet of Agia Anargyri

Pine trees dominate here, and the island is surrounded by clear blue waters. Agia Anargyri is connected to Methana by a narrow strip of land.

Faviero Castle

The castle is a preserved historical medieval monument, it is located at an altitude of 80 m above sea level. Near the fortress you can see a large part of the fortress wall, which, according to Thucydides, was built by the Athenians during the Peloponnesian War. The castle was built on the ruins of these fortifications by decree of the French General Nicholas Charles Favier.

ancient tower

It is located in an olive grove on the road to Stravologos. It is a well-preserved building from the 4th century BC, with carved volcanic stones and an impressive gate.

Peristeri Cave

The cave is located on the western coastal road, 2.5 km from the village of Vathi. This is one of the most remarkable natural attractions in the area, which was discovered by locals in 1973 in the Steno area. The cave is 2.5 million years old and 250 meters long.

4. Hospitality

And of course, Methana is famous for its wonderful residents who try their best to “receive guests”. Taverns by the sea offer simple traditional dishes from the freshest products for every taste and budget.

As such, Methana, which meets the strict criteria, has been recognized as one of the best destinations in 2023, according to the New York Times.

By the way, magnificent Methana is located just 2 hours from Athens. By car from Athens to Methana 160 km without a sea crossing: along the national road Athens – Corinth – Epidaurus – Methana.

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