Sightseeing in Ouranoupolis
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There are many aspects of
Ouranoupolis, so many places to visit. Some people like the
active holidays, the water-sports, the jet-skiing and the
windsurfing. Others prefer a deserted cove, a corner that they
enjoy and keep visiting day after day, and often year after
year. This is just a flavour of Ouranoupolis. |
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The view from the hills
The view from the rolling hills
above Ouranoupolis is enchanting. You can see the islands in the
distance across the cal blue sea. |
The Byzantine tower
Without a doubt the imposing feature
of Ouranoupolis is the Byzantine tower which stands sentry by
the sea. It houses a museum and you can visit it during the
summer. The view from the top balcony is simply magnificent. |
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The
Drenia Islands |
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The Drenia islands: a collection of
uninhabited rocks bathing it the mid-day sun. A paradise
of lonely coves and golden beaches. |
The larger island is called
"The Donkey Island" after the only inhabitants
there. In the summer it gets busy. This is where the
boats bring you to enjoy the golden sand and the clear
blue sea. |
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The taverna on "The Donkey Island".
Run by Kostas and Andonis, it is the only structure on the
island. It provides umbrellas and recliners by the sea for free.
It serves fresh fish, and souvlaki, washed down with draught
larger and the local tsipouro. Ask for the fresh fish of the day
or the steamed mussels which are kept alive and fresh in the
sea. |
If you are looking for peace and quite avoid "The
Donkey Island". Hire a boat in Ouranoupolis and explore. You are bound to find a
secluded cove and even a whole island to have to yourself for the day, with only
company the fish and the sea-birds. |
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The border to Mount
Athos |
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The Arsanas, a monastic building just
inside the border to Mount Athos. Hidden
among the olive trees, only five kilometres away from
Ouranoupolis. |
The old building with a courtyard and a well
in the centre marks the place where Byzantium joins up with today's
world. |
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The monastery of Zygos from 942 AD
on the border to Mount Athos is
being excavated. |
An architectural detail excavated at the
monastery of Zygos. |
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Serviko:
The unspoiled paradise |
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The dirt road up the hill over
Ouranoupolis is steep but the view of the bay from the top where
there is an oasis of pine trees is stunning. If you have a car
or good feet it is worth following the road as it comes down the
north side of the peninsula. You will discover an unspoiled
paradise. |
The umbrellas and recliners are provided by
the taverna, a wooden hut by the sea. Georgousis and his cheerful wife,
the proprietors, grow their own vegetables in a plot near by. The food
is always fresh and well cooked. |
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© 1999 J
Adamopoulos. All Rights Reserved. |
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