Spring is arguably the most picturesque season for embarking on a car excursion. The pleasant temperatures in the country allow for comfortable travel without air conditioning, making the journey through nature both exhilarating and rejuvenating. Last weekend, we spontaneously decided to explore Ermioni, Porto Heli, and the elegant, timeless cosmopolitan coasts of Argolida. To do this, we required a car that could safely and comfortably accommodate four people. Since we didn’t have a suitable vehicle available due to our extended holiday, Avis car rental provided the perfect solution.
At avis.gr, we discovered the ideal vehicle: Sturdy, swift, and versatile – essential attributes considering Argolida’s road network features narrow and poorly maintained roads. The car was spacious enough to accommodate four passengers and their luggage while maintaining fuel efficiency. Moreover, Avis offers a range of hybrid and electric models in their fleet, a crucial consideration during times of high fuel prices.
Embarking on Our Journey
Leaving the Athens-Corinth motorway behind, we followed the road towards Epidaurus, and eventually Ermioni. The most picturesque part of our journey featured pine trees, wildflowers, and winding roads beside the sea for miles. Gradually, the landscape shifted to a wilder, drier, and more Mediterranean environment, adorned with olive trees and shrubs. As we approached Ermioni’s harbor, pine trees reappeared in the final stretch.
An Island Experience in Ermioni
Ermioni, located on a pine-covered narrow peninsula that juts sharply into the sea, genuinely feels like an island paradise. Its unique geographical position blesses the town with two coastal fronts. At the settlement’s tip, one might think they’re aboard a ship, with the sea on both sides. Our accommodation was situated in this idyllic destination, where the fact that we arrived by car, rather than a ferry, seemed almost surprising. The island atmosphere is palpable, characterized by white houses, narrow alleys, and a marina where small fishing boats coexist with yachts and sailboats. The region’s gastronomic delights include fresh fish and seafood, as well as a unique local specialty: pomegranates.
Pomegranates have been cultivated in the Ermioni region for around a century. Until roughly two decades ago, it was the only area in Greece where this fruit was produced. As the day comes to an end, we savor pomegranate juice, delicious food, and refreshing drinks while admiring a breathtaking sunset before retiring to our accommodation.
Exploring the Beaches of Porto Heli
The next day found us exploring the beaches of Porto Heli. From Ermioni, Porto Heli is no more than a 20-minute drive, but the scenic journey is a feast for the eyes. We passed vineyards partially hidden by rows of cypress trees acting as fences and impressive mansions with lush gardens. Although the Ermioni-Porto Heli route takes only 20 minutes, we spent almost double that time, stopping multiple times to admire the stunning yachts anchored in the seemingly endless bays and coves. The area has regained its premium destination status from the 1970s and 1980s after a period of relative neglect. It’s worth noting that the waters of Argolis are especially warm, allowing for a refreshing swim even in April when the sea temperature is at its lowest. We didn’t just hear about it, we saw it for ourselves as quite a few people enjoyed swimming during the two days we spent there.
A Visit to an Excavated Monastery
About 40 minutes from Porto Heli lies the Monastery of Dimitrios Avgou. Although we had to drive through a rough dirt road to reach it, the car we rented served us well. The monastery is built in a region of stunning beauty, located in a steep gorge of the Rados River. There isn’t much confirmed information about the monastery’s history since, like most monasteries in the then-Greek territory, it was closed by decree during the reign of King Otto in 1834, and its archives were destroyed. What is certain is that the excavated building appears imposing to visitors, and the view from the now-abandoned sancutuary towards the Iria valley and its coast is impressive.
A Final Stop at Kranidi
Our last stop before heading back to Athens was the town of Kranidi. Nestled in the amphitheatrical hills of Argolis, Kranidi lacks the cosmopolitan vibe found in Porto Heli but has its own distinct charm. The town boasts panoramic views of a region where human interventions, despite their occasional excesses, blend quite harmoniously with the unique coastal landscape.
We will definitely return to this side of the Peloponnese during the summer months. Perhaps for more days and maybe combined with another destination. Because thanks to Avis and their many offers, renting a fuel-efficient car allows us to have more money for gastronomy, entertainment, and other activities.
