Ermioni is a seaside town of captivating beauty or an “island-town”
as it has been called. It is the seat of the municipality bearing the same name
and consists of the settlements of Achladitsa,
Podari, Petrothalassa,
St. Anargyri, Kouverta and
Kineta.
Ermioni is an ideal holiday resort, for it combines harmoniously the
tranquillity an island can offer and lively entertainment. The sea embracing it
from both sides forms a port in the north - the latter being the town’s
main commercial center - and the area of Mandrakia in the south. In the traditional
coffee shops and in the picturesque tavernas overhung by octopuses drying in the
sun and with fishermen’s nets being all around, visitors can enjoy their
wine or ouzo and snack on fresh seafood. Mandrakia is the liveliest area of the
city, its nightlife lasting until dawn.
The road that ascends through the paved lanes and the beautiful dwellings
of Ermioni leads to he slope of the ancient hill of Pronos, which is crowned at
the top by the chapel of St. Ermioni; the latter, built in the typical Greek island
architectural style on the foundations of the temple of goddess Hera, commands
a unique view over Dokos (findings
from the world’s oldest shipwreck) appearing eastward on the horizon, and
the island of Hydra that is
delineated further beyond. From the same spot one is afforded a fine view over
the plain which is reputed for yielding fine products, such as the pomegranates
of Ermioni - a unique Greek culture - citrus fruits and of course the well-known
local olive oil. Visitors should not miss out on a walk towards Mylos, situated
on the Krothi hill facing the port, wherefrom a magnificent view of Ermioni can
be enjoyed.
Apart from the beaches of Bitsi, there are beautiful stretches of
sand around Ermioni, Kouverta,
Sendoni, Petrothalassa, St.
Dimitrios, Dardiza, as well as the coasts of Thermissia
and Plepi which are ideal
for a swim in crystal clear waters.
A number of events and festivities are held in Ermioni which are worth
attending, such as: the yala-yala, celebrated in a unique, special way on the
day of the Epiphany; the Shrove Monday feast in Mandrakia; the burning of Judas
on Easter Sunday; various cultural events held in August, culminating in the choral
festival.
This text (extract) is cited March 2004 from the Municipality
of Ermioni tourist pamphlet.
