spetses
A Hotel offers you the opportunity to experience Spetses to the fullest. A place that caters to everyone’s idea of a true holiday – one designed to party and pamper in equal measures. And one that offers the opportunity to experience authentic Greek holidays in an island that is cosmopolitan but off the beaten track. A true gem to discover!
Spetses Island is one of the most popular Greek travel destinations as well as famous for the glorious history and naval past. Standing out from other Greek islands, it is car-free! The only means of transport are bicycles, motorcycles, traditional horse carriages, traditional boats and water-taxis. With its naval tradition, rich heritage and distinctive culture, it makes a perfect destination all year long.
Not to be missed in Spetses:
- A ride along the promenade with horse-drawn carriage during the sunset
- A stroll from the main port of Dapia to the lighthouse of the Palio Limani (Old Harbor), passing the Captain’s Mansions that line the seafront
- A movie viewing in one of the island’s open air cinemas in the summer months
- A visit to the Anargyrios and Korgialenios School of Spetses, a glorious boarding school during the 20th century
- A private day cruise with a chartered traditional wooden boat for the day
History
Its name comes from the Venetian “Isola di Spezzie” or else “island of spices”, due to the fragrant plants that cover the island all year round. It is distinguished of its noble and aristocratic atmosphere, superb architectural design, the piny forests and the crystal clear waters.
It’s distinguished past links with the Greek revolution of Independence against the Turkish rule. During the Revolution of 1821, Spetses was the first of the islands to revolt, raising the flag with the words ‘freedom or death’ in April 1821. To date, you can still admire a number of old cannons used during the revolution embellishing the town.
You can enjoy more of this rich history in any of the two museums on the island:
BOUBOULINA’S MUSEUM
+30 22980 72416
HATZIGIANNI MEXI MUSEUM
+30 22980 72994
Activities
Despite its petite size, Spetses boasts numerous wonderful beaches with crystal clear water. Some of the most picturesque bays with pebble and sand that you could visit during your holidays in Spetses are Agioi Anargiri, Kaiki, Agia Paraskevi, Zogeria, Agia Marina, Vrelos and Xilokeriza.
Apart from time at the beach, you can enjoy other activities like hiking, biking around the coastal road or ride a horse through the lush pine forests.
If you feel the mood to party, nightlife in Spetses has a cosmopolitan character, satisfying every preference. An abundance of restaurants, tavernas and bars will keep you happy until the small hours
Once you explore Spetses thoroughly, its perfect location offers the opportunity for daytrips to Hydra, the Ancient Theatre of Epidavros, the ancient palace of Mycenae and Greece’s first capital, Nafplio.