Swim safe in Attica
OrganiSed beaches
5 tips from Georgia Tsougani and Theologos Terziadis* osmopolitan and close to the city centre, it 01 Attica's beaches are generally safe with no strong currents has a capacity of over 5,000 people. Admisor prospects of tsunamis. Nevertheless, it's wise to ask a lifeguard sion €4 on weekdays and €6 at the weekends or a local for advice before entering the sea. (deckchairs and umbrellas are included in the 02 When the orange flag flies high on the tower, it means that the lifeguard price). Half the price for children between the is on duty (10:30-17:30). A red flag, however, indicates that the lifeguard ages of 4 to 12. The pool is a good alternative is off duty. So take care! (admission €7 every day and with a free beverage). Service of caretake of children provided. 03 Given the ozone hole threat, it's advisable not to sunbathe between the (+30) 210 8941620, www.asterascomplex.com/el/ hours of 12:00 and 16:00. In any case, DO NOT forget your sunscreen. 04 At beaches with watersports, always swim clear of the marked corridors Asteras Vouliagmenis designated for speedboats. It's also important not to swim close avoured by celebrities, emerging stars and to the marine buoys. their fans. Admission €15 on weekdays, 05 July and August are the months when the meltemia (strong winds) €25 at weekends, free admission for children blow, especially in the Aegean Sea. Try to avoid under 5, half the price for those between the ages north-facing beaches when the winds are gusting. of 5 to 12. Free facilities include umbrellas, deck-
Asteria Glyfadas
C
F
chairs, locker rooms, showers with hot water, Internet access. (+30) 210 8901694
*Greek Lifeguard School teachers
Vouliagmenis Lake
T
hermal waters, recommended for those with musculoskeletal issues. The temperature is between 22 to 29 Celsius degrees, all year round. Group gym programmes available in the neighbouring green areas. Also comes with its own restaurant and romantic café. € Admission €9 on weekdays,
€10 at weekends, €7 and €8 respectively for locals www.limnivouliagmenis.gr
Yanabaki
A
big water park, located in Varkiza. Cafés, restaurats, beach bars, waterslides, games on offer and free parking. € Admission €5 Tue-Wed, €6 at weekends, €3,50
for students, senior citizens and children aged 6-12. Free admission for children under 6. On weekdays regular deckchairs are free of charge, at weekends you have to pay €10. (+30) 210 8972414 www.yabanaki.gr
Grand Resort Lagonissi
H
otel cluster with a beach open to the public. Luxurious setting. Pool, a floating bar, a beach bar, restaurants, facilities for people with disabilities. Admission €8 on weekdays, €17 at weekends, half the price for children aged 7-12, free admission for children under 6. (+30) 22910 76000
www.lagonissiresort.gr
NUDE IN ATTICA Limanakia Vouliagmenis
Photo costas amoiridis
T
he third cove is mainly favoured by nudists. Bring water and snacks with you.
Legrena
T
here are two beaches. Nudists prefer the first one. Along the Athens-Sounio coastal road, there are dozens of small coves ideal for all swimming preferences. But be warned: if you want to go nude in Greece, don't expect to find the amenities of an organised beach.
90 _ CITY GUIDE summer 2014
Ramnounta
I
solated and not organised, 65 km from Athens, Head east to Gramatiko and just before the local village turn right following the sign “Limnonas”. Don't be afraid. Go ahead and when you see “Sesi” sign turn right to the steep downhill. Feel free to park here. Then you'll know what to do.
Vrachakia
T
hroughout the entire route from Vouliagmeni to Sounion you can spot wonderful, quiet little beaches, away from prying eyes. If you find a good spot with a car parked on top, keep in mind you may be intruding.
How to get there By bus
You can get all the bus schedules at www.oasa.gr or call at 1185 (Tue-Wed 06:30-22:30, Sat-Sun 07:30-22:30).
By tram
Get to Voula (terminal station “Asklipio Voulas”), starts from Syntagma and Peace & Frendship Stadium (SEF) and connections with metro and train station. (+30 214 4146400, Mon-Wed 08:00-16:00).
By KTEL
buses They take off from Mavromateon str. At Pedion tou Areos and go all the way to Rafina and Sounion (for Athens-Sounion call +30 210 8808081 and for Athens-Rafina call +30 210 8808082).