Villa Kouzounos

Villa Kouzounos enjoys a fabulous hillside location, just over five kilometres from Spetses town centre and the magical Old Harbour. It is 2km from Kouzounos Beach and just over 3km from Agia Marina Beach.

You will arrive by ferry in a couple of hours having left Athens. The island is also connected to the islands of Hydra and Poros by ferry. Spetses is fantastically popular for its elegant atmosphere, its impressive Venetian mansions, its picturesque alleyways, its excellent dining scene and its beauty. The car ban keeps it calm and very attractive. In the heart of the Saronic Gulf, you will find beautiful boutique shops, a yacht marina, wonderful restaurants and stunning secluded beaches. Around Dapia, the island’s busy port, there is a wonderful array of bars and cafes, a perfect spot for a romantic sunset drink while gazing at Kosta and Porto Heli on the mainland across the waters. In Dapia, you will find the Spetses Museum and the Anargyros mansion. Dapia is the New Harbour whereas the Old Harbour, called Baltiza, is one and a half kilometres away.

The island is blessed by beautiful beaches with Kouzounos, Ksilokeriza, Vrelos, Agia Marina and Agia Paraskevi amongst the best. Agia Paraskevi is a lovely beach surrounded by lush greenery and enjoying crystal clear waters. At the beach of Agios Arnargyros you will discover the famous Bekiris Cave.

Though car free, there are some buses that run from the town centre. The Museum of Bouboulina is the museum of the local heroine Lascarina Bouboulina, housed in the mansion of Bouboulina close to the port. During the second weekend of September, the impressive Festival of Armata takes place. There are many events in celebration of the naval victories of Spetses, Hydra and Psara against the Turks in 1822 including fireworks, feastings and the burning of a ship. The island enjoys many old footpaths that cross over and lead to tiny chapels, secluded beaches, hilltops with sensational views and small settlements. While you are on the island you should take a horse-drawn carriage ride. It will take you past the well-kept captain’s mansions below the Agios Nikolaos Monastery, past the museum and the boatyards and pass the legendary Poseidon Hotel which has hosted royalty, dignitaries and politicians.

The island is steeped in history with archaeological finding dating back to 3000 BC. The Bouboulina Museum enjoys many personal items from the War of Independence. The Mansion of Hatzigianni Mexi, the first governor of Spetses, is also interesting as it is one of the most impressive stately homes. The old boat yards in the heart of the Old Harbour are truly impressive. You can still watch builders practise their craft.

Read more about Spetses

Traditionally a discerning holiday destination for wealthy city dwellers in Athens, the Greek island of Spetses attracts summer visitors from across Europe and beyond. No wonder with its grand architecture, rich heritage, local traditions and picturesque beaches.

The island is located in the Saronic Gulf off the Peloponnese coast, reached via passenger ferries from Kosta/Porto Heli or by high-speed services from Piraeus in Athens. As visitor cars cannot be brought on to the island, bikes are a fantastic way to explore (scooters are also popular but be aware of certain restrictions). Alternatively, indulge in water taxis to transport you around the island’s shores or to truly travel in style, look out for horse-drawn carriages by the harbourfront.  

You will arrive into Dapia, a bustling port with historic canons and a handsome seafront leading east towards the old harbour. Pass grand houses dating back to the 18th century when the island traded under Ottoman rule and watch the world go by from a café terrace facing the sea – it’s especially beautiful strolling by the seafront at dusk.  

Shop to your heart’s delight in boutiques scattered across the old town, try traditional Greek dishes in welcoming tavernas and fresh seafood in upmarket restaurants. As night nears, stop off in a bar overlooking the sea for a cocktail as you soak up the ambience of summer life on the island. All accompanied by the bold colours of jasmine, hibiscus and bougainvillea.  

Behind Dapia’s harbour is the impressive Bouboulina Museum that celebrates the life of Admiral Laskarina Bouboulina, a heroine in the in the 19th century Greek War of Independence. In the other direction, just inland from Agios Mamas and its pretty Greek orthodox church, is the equally fascinating Museum of Spetses, housed in a 200-year mansion allowing you to learn all about the island’s varied history.

Visitors are also enchanted by Spetses’ beaches from the likes of Paralia Agia Marina just south of the main town and Kaiki Beach with sun beds and watersports to the more remote Vrellos Beach and Paralia Zogeria. Alternatively, sail to tiny coves and hidden bays across the western coast for turquoise-coloured sea and idyllic scenery - Paralia Agia Paraskevi is a particular favourite.

During your stay in Spetses, look out for an array of events and festivities. The Aegean Film Festival takes place in July and the internationally renowned island marathon is held in October each year. If staying in August, join in the local celebrations on 15th August as the Greek Orthodox Church celebrate Virgin Mary. The Armata Festival in September is another great experience with many traditional events including a spectacular re-enactment of the naval battle against the early 19th century Ottoman fleets.