Beach life

From the expansive beach of Aghia Anna to the small coves of the Lichada Peninsula, Northern Evia offers countless options for swimming. Don’t miss the chance to bathe at the Aidipsos thermal springs, where hot spring water forms a small waterfall that flows into the sea. The contrast between the warm spring water and the cold sea creates a playful and refreshing experience. Mylos beach in Gialtra offers clear waters, fine sand, and a large stretch of coast. Similar settings can be found at other beaches on the Lichada Peninsula, such as Chrysi Akti and Gregolimano. The beaches at Vasilika, Aghia Anna, and Pefki are serviced. Small boats also depart every half hour for the Lichadonisia, a cluster of small uninhabited islets opposite the Lichada Peninsula. The largest, Monolia, lies only 600 meters from the mainland and features a serviced beach with umbrellas and loungers.

Islets of tranquility

Part of the Natura 2000 protected area network, the Lichada Peninsula is ideal for a relaxed drive. Stop by the village of Lichada for stunning views of the Euboean Gulf. Since 1998, the Kanatadika area has also been included in Natura 2000. The Mikro and Megalo Livari lagoons and the estuary of the Xirias River are vital bird habitats and lovely places for nature walks.

Wander a little further

Central and Southern Evia, especially along the eastern coastline, offer beautiful beaches you can explore on a day trip from the north. The vast beach of Chiliadou and the nearby small coves (Kokkinia, Damianos, Metochi) offer beautiful settings for a swim followed by a meal at a local taverna. Further south, the beach of Aghios Dimitrios impresses with its dramatic landscape and steep cliffs. If you’re craving a change of scenery, the traditional mountain village Steni is always a great option hearty food and cool mountain air.

What to eat and where

Fresh fish and seafood from the Euboean Gulf dominate the menus of local tavernas and restaurants, while mountain villages offer quality meats. Try Kima (Kanatadika, Tel. (+30) 22260.520.23) or Antonis (Aghios Georgios Lichadas, Tel. (+30) 22260.332.04) for fresh fish. At the ouzeri Sta kala… kathoumena (Oreoi, Tel. (+30) 22260.717.01), you can enjoy a variety of meze and seafood dishes. For meat, try Zacharakis (Aghios, Tel. (+30) 22260.315.77), Dokos (Istiaia, Tel. (+30) 22260.559.23), and Lemonadika (Gouves, Tel. (+30) 22260.409.13).

When the sun goes down

Hatziraftakis Giorgos, a traditional ouzeri in Aghia Anna (Tel. (+30) 694.747.3563), opens only in the evening and serves a fine selection of meze, bottled tsipouro, and ouzo. Besides beach bars, there are more options in large villages like Limni, Aidipsos, Pefki, and Vasilika. Barous (Limni, Tel. (+30) 22270.310.35) makes excellent cocktails and has a good wine list, while Old House (Loutra Aidipsos, Tel. (+30) 22260.606.06) offers cold beers with a sea view.

Souvenirs to take home

Northern Evia’s fertile soil yields delicious local products, such as honey, wine, and cheese and much more. The village of Taxiarchis, 5 km from Istiaia, is famous for its dried figs, while Rovies is known for its olives. At the Vriniotis Family Winery (Gialtra, Tel. (+30) 22260.324.29), you can taste local wines, made from both red and white grape varieties.

Insider tip

Northern Evia hosts numerous yoga retreats throughout the summer, and boutique guesthouses offer relaxation and yoga sessions. At Sky Hut Retreats, just outside Rovies, you can join four-day programs that combine yoga, walking, and meditation. The Wellness Oasis team also organizes retreats on Kavos Beach in Lichada. For more information, visit skyhutretreats.com and wellnessoasis.gr, or find more options on the global platform bookyogaretreats.com.