EXPERIENCES
Portoheli is a paradise for water sport enthusiasts. With 18 miles of beaches & coves, there is always somewhere new to go for a swim or explore by boat.
Ski, scuba diving, rent a boat services to nearby bays and beaches are easily available. The location is ideal for boat tours to Hydra, Spetses and Poros or for car tours to significant archeological sites that are situated in the Argolis area. From the Sanctuary of Asklepius and the ancient theatre of Epidaurus to the Treasury of Atreus (tholos tomb) at Mycenae, this part of Peloponnese is also known for its beautiful seaside town of Nafplio and the famous vineyards of Nemea.
The mild climate, the unforgettable sunsets, the innumerable cultural activities, ensure that Porto Heli is a popular holiday resort throughout the whole summer period.
01
Visit Epidaurus
The UNESCO World Heritage Site of Epidaurus is an ancient sanctuary which reflects not only the great history of Hellenistic and Roman periods, but also how powerful the Ancient Greek spiritual beliefs were. Apart from the famous Theatre, Epidaurus also includes the archaeological site and ruins of the sanctuary of Asklepios as well as a museum that exhibits findings from the site.
02
Discover Mycenae
Mycenae, the “golden city” of ancient Greece is a UNESCO World Heritage Site that must not be missed. Mycenae was the epicenter of the Mycenaean world and gave its name to a period and a civilization that evolved throughout the entire Hellenic civilization and spread even further to the Mediterranean basin between the 16th and 12th c. BC.
Visit Kontovrakis
estate
03
Yiannis Kontovrakis vineyard stands in Kranidi of Argolida at an attitude of 300 m. Today he continues his family wine-growing tradition from his grandfather to his father and today himself. He cultivates one rare and perhaps unique grape variety called Rokaniaris together with other grape varieties. Yiannis and his niece are welcoming their guests with a wine-tasting session accompanied by many stories about the place and its cultivations.
04
Observe the bees
Since 1914 the Bairaktaris family has handed down the traditions of beekeeping, keeping the art alive from generation to generation. The family has created a ‘Bee Museum’ housed in a traditional stone building which displays many of the original bee-keeping tools used by their ancestors. They have installed plexi glass ‘bee boxes’ so that you may have a rare opportunity to observe the hive activity.
05
Visit a Monastery
Behind the mountains of Didyma, on a mountain called “Avgo”, stands the monastery of St. Dimitrios. This two level monastery is literally built into the rock face of Avgo Mountain, about 850 meters high, overlooking the gorge of river Rados which leads down to the sea.
Once you arrive, the breathtaking view, the unique Byzantine building in the rock and the spectacular surrounding nature makes the somewhat rocky journey well worth it.
06
Walk around an historic city
Nafplio is one of the most historic cities of the region, full of spectacular monuments and sights that have stories that span from the ancient times to the medieval. Visitors can spend hours between the ancient castles and the museums or simply stroll through the quaint streets of the old town, surrounded by bougainvillea and lined with restaurants and shops.
07
Organise an excursion
As you approach the port of Hydra, the magnificent little town opens its arms to you. Spanning from the port up the hills, you can see the impressive clock tower of Hydra and beautiful old mansions as far as the eye can see. There is no motor-transport allowed anywhere on the island, only donkeys and water taxis provide a means of getting around. There are a number of things that you can do, from relaxed shopping and dining to visiting museums and historical archives.
08
Enjoy rides in a carriage
The island of Spetses has a long and rich history, but the most interesting period is that of the Greek War of Independence (the revolution of 1821). Spetses, ten minutes away by water taxis, is not just about the inspiring history, but also the beauty of the island. It is cosmopolitan yet traditional, a charming combination of quaint streets, pine forests and local charm, where reminders of the rich history of the island are around every corner.
09
Follow the path
Visit Bisti, a pine-cladded peninsula at the Eastern end of Ermioni, and at the same time, an open-air archaeological site. During the year, rock bathing and swimming is extremely enjoyable, especially in the clear blue waters on the Southern (Mandrakia) side of the peninsula. No matter what the season, the Bisti is an inviting place for swimmers, walkers and joggers all year round and at any time of the day. Whilst you are walking round on the Bisti footpath, you will see the ruins of the base of Athena's and Poseidon's ancient temples, which end to a charming windmill.
10
Receive a massage therapy
Enjoy a massage therapy session in the comfort of your own villa by a fully trained beauty therapist. Offer yourself a therapeutic massage designed to relieve stress leaving you feeling relaxed and revitalized.
11
Try water skiing
Just 6 km away from Villa Emmelia, you will find Water Ski Center - Ververoda Lake, a place to train, sunbathe and enjoy skiing in Porto Heli. A place of unrivalled beauty for learning water skiing with highly qualified instructors. They run their courses from Monday to Friday all year round. Weekends are free for you to relax, sightseeing or ski extra together with the Club Skiers. The school offers training and full equipment for all ages and levels.
12
Take a swim
There are many beaches and coves around Porto Heli, which offer relaxing moments. In the area, you can find small hidden coves with sandy beaches. Some of the beaches are organized and have water sports club, sun beds, umbrellas, while others are rather isolate, perfect for couples and families. All beaches are gifted with crystal waters. You can choose depending on your preferences, on the wind and on your mood!
13
Rent a boat
''Afros'' rent a boat is located in Porto Heli - on the beach in front of the Best Western Hotel Rozos, just 500m from the town centre.You have the opportunity of being the captain of your boat and discover small hidden coves. In this area, rich in natural beauty, with moderate and occassionally stronger winds, Spetses Island just 3 nautical miles away and a beautiful coastline from St Amillianos to Korakia, we can assure you of a scenic and enjoyable day out in your boat.
14
Catch a movie
Catch a movie under the stars while in Greece at one of the magical open-air cinemas. The smell of jasmine, a soft summer breeze and a cool beer at hand is the stuff Greek summer nights are made of.
Star club Cinema, situated in Porto Heli, has two programs running, usually one at 9pm and the other at 11pm, you can purchase your tickets just 15 minutes before the performance, while you can also enjoy a drink or a snack during the wonderful warm evenings.
15
Taste greek food
Local Greek cuisine dominates the area with its many restaurants serving traditional dishes, fresh fish and seafood. Staff and owners are as always very hospitable, generous and friendly. You will also find tavernas on the beach and by the seaside.
16
Order a coctail
Porto Heli is a lovely place with cosmopolitan atmosphere. Along the portside, there are nice cafeterias that turn into lounge bars in the evening such as Sokaki bar and Ostria bay Alternatively, for a more family night out, you can enjoy a long dinner in the many seaside taverns at the port. During the warm nights, choose to have a coctail at the Pearl Rooftop or by the beach at Godai Seascape .Nice bars are also found in the close town of Ermioni, 20 min drive from Porto Heli, or in Spetses island, 10 min boat ride from Costa (4,5km from Porto Heli).
