Loutraki, a seaside resort on the Gulf of Corinth, is just 81 km west of Athens. The name Loutraki means bath, bath-house or spa, derived from the natural springs in the area. The health springs the area is famous for draw tourists, but the area offers so much more…
For health tourism
Loutraki’s natural thermal springs at the bottom of Mount Geraneia were called “the water of life” in antiquity. The geothermal springs are from the faults of the coastal area in a 750m zone. A number of spas in the area combine the natural hot springs with modern spa treatments for the ultimate wellness experience.
For gamblers
Club Hotel Casino Loutraki (2744 060300) draws international gamblers and jetsetters thanks to 87 gaming tables and 1,000 slot machines, making it one of the largest casinos in Europe.
For pilgrims
The imposing Holy Monastery of Saint Patapios (tel. 27440 22496)at the Gerania mountains, just above Loutraki,is home to 40 nuns. Their proudest possession is a relic from St. Patapio in a cave hermitage.
For antiquity
Ancient Heraion, dedicated to the goddess Hera, is a sanctuary to the goddess Hera, was in use from the 8th century BC. The sanctuary belonged to ancient Corinth but fell into disuse after the Romans sacked the city in 146BC. Legend has it that Medea murdered and buried her children here.
For romantics
Peaceful Vouliagmeni Lagoon is just 3.5 km away from Ancient Heraion. It is 2 km long and up to 1 km wide with an estimated depth at 40 meters.
For nature lovers
The iconic artificial waterfall of Loutraki is next to the old springs. There’s a cafeteria nearby for visitors to enjoy after a walk under the waterfall.
For culture
The Loutraki Folk Arts Museum (tel. 27440 66600) has been located in the central square of the city since March 1998. The artifacts on display are from donations made by Sotiria Lekka and her husband Andreas Nikolopoulos.
For seafarers
The old and beautiful Malagavi lighthouse is just off the Cape of Malagavi, a few hundred meters from the Heraion archeological site. The views of the north coast of the Peloponnese are worth the trek.
For beach bums
Loutraki’s blue flag beaches are of superb quality. Apart from the main 2km beach in the city center, try Schinos, Skaloma, Milokopi, Strava, Sterna and Maurolimni.
For dolphin lovers
Strollers on the promenade sometimes are treated to the spectacular sight of playful dolphins flipping out of water.
For kids
The “Water Fun” park of Loutraki (tel. 2741 081400), in the area of the Corinth Canal, was water slides and entertainment for the young and young at heart.
