Spas of Greece

Spas of Greece
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When you think of Greece, what springs to mind?
  • Ancient history and culture, therefore ancient cities and sites
  • Azure blue sky and seas with beaches to rival that of the Caribbean. In fact, the 'Caribbean of Europe'!
Would you associate Greece with spa towns and spa tourism? Maybe not, but you may be surprised to learn that Spa Tourism was actually the first type of tourism in Greece and has been operating for over 120 years, dating back to the Roman period and King Otto.

There are many spas in Greece. Kythnos island in the Cyclades, for example, is famous for its thermal springs.

My favourite natural spa is actually a lake. Lake Vouliagmenis is located along the Athens Riviera, on the way to the famous temple of Sournio - approx. an hour from Central Athens by public transport. It's considered a geological phenomenon as it is continually filled with natural thermal water and sea water. Formed because a cave roof collapsed due to the slow erosion due to the continual running water, Vouliagmenis Lake is a popular destination for all. Open year round, it's possible to travel by public transport from Athens, which makes it even more accessible if you're on a weekend city break.

Read more about Vouliagmenis Lake here.

For an extended break, why not stay in an actual spa hotel? The small spa town of Edipsos on the Greek island of Evia (the second biggest island in Greece, after Crete) offers a five star spa resort, whose healing waters have been recorded as being in the top 10 in the world. Swim in the outdoor pool with 50% salt water, 50% thermal water and a year round temperature of 90 - 93 degrees F.
Or if you don't fancy the idea of swimming outdoors in winter, the indoor, 100% thermal water pool is perfect for relaxing in, with a year round temperature of 91 - 94 degrees F.
With therapeutic to medicinal treatments available, a short or long break here is recommended.
Read more about the spa in Edipsos here.

Have you ever been to a spa in Greece? What was your experience like?

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