"One of the most popular archaeological sites in Greece!"
Where the crystal blue waters of the Saronic gulf meet the lush green forests stretching down the mountains. Here you will find Palaia Epidaurus, a region mostly known for having the ancient world’s most famous theater. With its own authentic character it will provide a truly genuine Greek experience.
Seeing as you will be visiting by a sailing yacht charter the sole fact that you will anchor in the Epidaurus Gulf is a blessing. Having an incredibly relaxed night, enjoying the gorgeous turquoise waters in the morning and the great scenery all add up to an unforgettable Greek holiday experience.
Its most precious attraction is the famous ancient theatre, known to be the best preserved theatre available on sight in Greece. A 30 minute drive away from the port (you can hire a taxi to get there), even for those who are not interested in archeology, this area will definitely offer them some intrigue, standing in the same position for more than 2500 years, with tales of legends such as Pericles in ancient times, as well as more recent high profile personalities like Maria Callas and many others.
Possessing incredible acoustics allowing performances to be heard by everyone in the audience up to the very last row. Its sheer size has made it so widely known from the times of antiquity to present day. Not to mention its unique architecture and interesting design. Visiting Palaia Epidaurus will give you the opportunity to enjoy amazing swims, this historical masterpiece and snorkel above the ancient lost city of Palaia Epidaurus! We strongly encourage a visit to this area and are sure it will familiarize you with Greek culture, history and will result in an excellent experience during your private sailing cruise in the Greek islands.
Location:
Argolis coast
Known for:
The ancient theatre
Anchorage:
Palaia Epidaurus port
Distance from Athens:
30 miles
Famous heritage:
Epidaurus Theater
Interesting info:
Theater’s Accoustics
PALAIA EPIDAVROS
Included in our 1 week route for the Saronic Gulf
As mentioned earlier, Epidaurus is better known for its ancient theatre, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, which is worth visiting, providing the opportunity to admire the acoustics, the architecture as well as observing the structure itself, which till this very day remains of great interest to many serious architects.
In a bay right beside the town, lies a sunken city awaiting exploration. For those looking to explore, these underwater structures are ideal. At just two meters below sea level, easily visible, simply put on your mask and flippers and let the adventure begin. When approaching this area, request your skipper’s advice and instruction, as it is not deep enough to approach too closely by boat.
The views from Epidaurus port can be super relaxing and revitalizing after a day in the sun, swimming in one of the beautiful natural coves nearby. You may approach the port via dinghy and then enjoy a nice stroll through the little alleys and charming streets. Our skipper can point out local taverns for you to visit along the way. If visiting in August there is an organized festival called “Panigiri” which is a really fun and interesting experience.
PROSPrestine, calm waters
Lovely scenery (drop an anchor and tie a rope in the land)
Close proximity to Athens
Significant, historical sights
Interesting diving areas
CONSDue to the theater's festivals in the summer it might be overcrowded
High temperatures during summer
“Sailing the Saronic Greek Isles”
We took out a Beneteau Oceanis 54, "Black Jack" for the last week of July 2015. The yacht was very well maintained and we had an excellent holiday. This was thanks to the staff at the base - Maria, Dmitrios and Eugene and also to our totally professional, competent and lovely skipper, Panos. Air conditioning and fans were very helpful in the Greek heat - Athens was bathed in 37 degrees C when we set sail! Panos guided us around the Saronic islands showing us the best places to swim, moor and eat. Transfer to and from the boat was made easy by the shore staff with the help of Konstantinos, the wonderful taxi driver - a true ambassador of Athens (and Greece) - as a result of him we visited the ancient theatre, Epidhavros - even our 4 children aged between 11 and 16 were impressed. We will definitely book with Yacht Sailing Greece again.
Visited July 2015
“Best Yacht Charter in Greece!”
I have been chartering from yachtsailing.gr for many years now with my family and it is always a pleasure to come back!! We sometimes sailed for two weeks, all the way to Santorini and back, other times a week only going closer to shore towards Nafplion or to Mykonos / Paros and back. The best aspect of chartering with them are: - Very friendly people... Eugene, Dimitris and Maria - Savvy sailing wise and give very good tips around where to go on what winds etc. - Great prices I very much recommend them! :-)
Visited May 2015
Built in the 4th century BC, this theater was dedicated to God Dionysus and had an initial capacity of 2,000 spectators. At first, its existence was unknown, because it had been covered by soil and was discovered in 1970. Nowadays, in the small theater of Epidaurus, events take place every summer, part of the Athens and Epidaurus festival, with concerts and theatrical performances.
Situated within the Archaeological Site of the sanctuary of Asclepius, the museum was built to house the important findings of excavations from that era. The museum has exhibits on display dating from the Archaic to Roman era and they vary from large statues to medical instruments, as well as large segments of significant ancient structures.
Sanctuary of Asclepius was one of the most important therapeutic centers of Ancient Greek times. Famous around the world, its location will fascinate you! History has shown that Asclepius practiced well-organized medical procedures to treat a variety of diseases holistically and naturally, combining religious practices and other treatments in order to attempt curing the sick.
Palaia Epidaurus is a great option overall for a sailing cruise. You have great sight seeing and pleasant waters to dive. Try to avoid Friday and Saturday afternoons if you are looking for a taxi to go to the ancient theater as there are a lot of visitors arriving to watch one of the performances of the festival organised each years in July - August
-Eugene Suggests