84 km from Athens you can find Loutraki, a popular tourist resort in the prefecture of Corinth, famous for its natural mineral and thermal waters and one of the most luxurious casinos in Europe.

BRIEF HISTORY

The ancient name of Loutraki was "Thermai" in honor of the goddess Thermias Artemis protector of the therapeutic healing waters.

Apollo, God of sun and prosperity and Hera, mother of all Gods, were worshiped in the area of ​​Loutraki in temples, the ruins of which survive to this day. At the entrance of the city there are preserved parts of the ancient trackway built by the Corinthian tyrant Periadros in 600 BC.

There are historical references that in 146 BC when the city was under Roman domination, General Silas was healed by the healing, warm waters of the city and so the reputation of the city spread throughout the Roman Empire.

Loutraki played a decisive role during the Greek Revolution of 1821 due to its geographical location, as many battles took place there.

The area is also known as Perea (beyond Corinth), while the present name "Loutraki" comes from its thermal springs - baths.

SIGHTS SEEING - ENTERTAINMENT

The unique combination of mountain and seaside, the thermal facilities, the remarkable archaeological-religious monuments, the luxurious casino, the numerous high-level dining and entertainment options make Loutraki an ideal tourist destination.

Archaeological sites

Heraon
Only 12 km from Loutraki Heraon was called "Eschatiotis" or "Gorgopis" in ancient times.

Heraon of Perachora was a sanctuary dedicated to the goddess Hera and is located in a small cove of the Corinthian Gulf at the end of the Perahoras Peninsula.

The archaeological site of Heraon is visited each year by thousands of culture and history lovers around the world.

The particular design of Hera Akraias temple of the 6th century BC in combination with the idyllic location and the ruins of the 9th century BC of the arched structure are both of cultural and architectural interest.

Ancient Cromeonas
The area is known for the myth of Phaieus, the monster that was killed by the hero Theseus on his way from Troizina to Athens.

In 1961 archaeologists discovered in their excavations the ruins of the ancient Cromeon, with unique masterpieces such as a statue of Apollo. There are also ruins in a circular layout, which have not been determined if they belong to a temple or a small theater. Ancient Cromeon is located 24 km from the city of Loutraki.

Religious Sites
On the steep slopes of Gerania mountain, above Loutraki, in a position with panoramic views, stands the imposing monastery of Saint Patapeos, one of the most important places of pilgrimage in Greece.

The monasteries of Profitis Heleas and Agios Gerasimos, located on the slopes of Gerania, offer stunning views of the Corinthian Sea. There is also a church of Panagia Prithi, one of the oldest churches in Peloponnese.

Therapeutic Baths - Water
The "Water of Life" as it has been characterized since ancient times by the natural healing water emerges from Loutraki springs, promotes well-being and the revitalization of the body, making Loutraki an international renowned spa town. Hot springs contain a lot of sodium chloride and thus have a healing capacity, mainly for kidney, stomach, but also arthritic, neuralgic diseases.

Also, the drinking water coming out of the area is of great importance for health reasons and therefore bottled. Its therapeutic qualities are mainly due to the small amount of magnesium it contains.

Casino
In Loutraki operated the first Greek casino in 1930. In 1994 the new casino opened and since then it has become one of the most popular gaming sites in Europe.

Its high aesthetics combined with quality services and the countless entertainment offers stands as a point of reference for visitors who are looking for unique experiences. In its rooms there are Roulettes, Black Jack, Poker, state-of-the-art slot machines and VIP room.

Sports
Loutraki is an internationally well-known destination for sports tourism. The mild Mediterranean climate of the region and the excellent tourist infrastructure contribute to the organization of important national and international sports events such as the Acropolis Rally, Volleyball World Cup, Semi-Marathon and others. More than 40000 athletes have participated in world, european and national championships that took place in Loutraki.

There are several remarkable sports facilities such as the Municipal Olympic size Swimming Pool, the closed municipal gymnasium "G. Galanopoulos ", the open stadium " Christos Thodis ".

Varied sports activities in and around Loutraki include:

Bungee Jumping in the Corinth Canal, one of the most impressive in the world.

Snorkeling & Scuba Diving, 2 certified scuba diving schools are in Loutraki for those who want to practice diving.

Windsurfing, due to the ideal conditions all year round on the beach of Loutraki and regardless the skill level anyone can practice this sport with certified trainers and with cutting-edge equipment for its safe conduct.

Water Sports, Loutraki beach and Heraon lagoon offer the ideal conditions for practicing or learning water sports such as water ski, wakeboard, barefoot, kayak, SUP

Air Sports & Paragliding, aerospace enthusiasts will find in Loutraki an amazing destination with the ideal climate for two-seater paragliding, dynamic SIV flying trips and even SIV seminars.

Beaches

Central Loutraki Beach
Loutraki beach has been awarded with a Blue Flag for 20 consecutive years, which confirms the excellent water quality. The crystal-clear waters and the wonderful setting are the ideal setting for rejuvenating, diving and sunbathing under the mediterranean sun.

Mylokopi
15 km from Loutraki is Mylopopi beach. It is a double beach, apparently the product of an ancient earthquake, one side of which consists of dark clear sand, while the other is dominated by striking cracked slabs, broken by the apparent intense seismicity of the area. The beach is situated in a magnificent pine-tree landscape combining mountain and seaside. The waters are crystal clear with emerald color.

Lake Vouliagmeni
Lake Vouliagmeni is an ideal choice for those looking to relax and enjoy the tranquility around, in a magical setting next to the beach. It is actually a lagoon, located 16 kilometers northwest of Loutraki, very close to the archaeological site of Heraon and the settlement of Perachora. Its depth does not exceed 40 meters, its length is 2 kilometers and its width is one kilometer. The beach is sandy and with a narrow channel its waters communicates with those of the Corinthian Gulf.

Places to visit around Loutraki

Gerania Mountains
Gerania dominates and the lovers of the promenade can discover beautiful paths, paths, old churches, Byzantine monasteries and archaeological sites. They are a natural dam 37 km long between Central Greece and the Peloponnese. A reference point for nature lovers is the village of Pisia, 14 km from Loutraki with the deep ravine, the big plane trees that give the village a special beauty.

The Loutraki Mountaineering Club often organize excursions and walks on the slopes of Gerania. Climbing, horse riding, mountaineering and mountain biking are also organized by various sports centers. Tel. Loutraki Mountaineering Club.+30 6932981010

Corinth Canal
One of the most important examples of architecture and engineering in ancient times it is worth admiring its size from the bridge to the water. The idea of ​​the canal was examined by the Ancient Greeks as a shortcut so that sailing boats do not sail around Peloponnese.

From 1893 in the 6.3 km isthmus, the Corinth Canal was opened separating Peloponnese from Central Greece which in practice actually makes Peloponnese an island.

Nafplio
About 70 km from Loutraki, is the city of Nafplio, one of the most popular Greek destinations especially for those who live in Attica and Peloponnese, due to distance. A beautiful city with castles and neoclassical buildings, old neighborhoods, pedestrianized streets and large squares. Nafplio overflows with life, preserves the legends of the past and drives every visitor into its mysterious atmosphere. Nafplio is also known for Bourtzi, the small fort built on an islet in the port of Palamidi, a Venetian fortress that dominates over the city.

Lake Doxa
Hidden amongst the mountains of Corinthia and Achaia, at a distance of 100km from Loutraki, is Lake Doxa. Lake Doxa is an artificial lake at an altitude of 900 meters, more specifically located in Ancient Feneos of Korinthia. A magnificent landscape of amazing colors, a unique sense of relaxation is all that you need for an escape from the city. The region has been described as "Corinthian Switzerland" for its stunning beauty. Firs, pine trees and mountains give a sense of alpine scenery.

Cruise Aegina - Agistri
The cruise starts from the village of Isthmia (8km from Loutraki) with a small and elegant cruise ship every Friday and Saturday First stop is Aegina, the island of artists which is built amphitheatrically over the sea. A horse-drawn carriage ride or walking on the scenic island's narrow streets between colorful houses and well-tended courtyards is an unforgettable experience. Next to Aegina, Agistri is a real paradise on earth . Ideal for moments of relaxation, for swimming in the crystal-clear waters of the Saronic Gulf or walking on its verdant slopes.

Ancient theatre of Epidavros
55 km from Loutraki, built on the western slope mountain Kynortio, is the ancient theater of Epidaurus, the most impeccable ancient Greek theater in terms of acoustics and aesthetics.

The ancient theater of Epidaurus is located at the southeast end of the sanctuary dedicated to the ancient therapy god Asclepius, in the Asklepieion of Epidaurus. It was built around 340 - 330 BC, so the patients of Asclepius could watch theatrical performances and was in use at least until the 3rd c. A.D.

The monument attracts a large number of Greek and foreign visitors and since 1955 it has a prominent position on the cultural route of modern Greece as it is used for performances of ancient drama.

Alkyonides Islands
Alkyonides are 4 islands behind Gerania Mountain across the Cape of Olmion. Their name is due to the fact that the birds alkyon have been found there since ancient times. from September to March.

The four islands are Zoodohos Pigi, Daskalio, Glaronisi and Prasonisi.

It has been observed that the gulf hosts four species of dolphins, where everyone can watch their game with the waves.

Gerania Mountains
Gerania dominates and the lovers of the promenade can discover beautiful paths, old churches, Byzantine monasteries and archaeological sites. They are a natural dam 37 km long between Central Greece and the Peloponnese. A reference point for nature lovers is the village of Pisia, 14 km from Loutraki with the deep ravine, the big plane trees that give the village a special beauty.

The Loutraki Mountaineering Club often organizes excursions and walks on the slopes of Gerania. Climbing, horse riding, mountaineering and mountain biking are also organized by various sports centers.