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Sightseeing in Ouranoupolis

There are many sights of Ouranoupolis, many beaches and 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.

The familiar silhouette of the tower by the sea at the end of the road and the picturesque village of Ouranoupolis lying at it's feet.	The old Byzantine tower by the sea-front, a monument to times past.
You are getting closer... Another turn and you are inside the village of Ouranoupolis.	Sunset from the south side of Ouranoupolis. This is the side neighbouring to Mount Athos, more rugged and rocky.

The leafy west side of Ouranoupolis. The promenade follows the line of the trees. The most cosmopolitan place to sit and watch the world go by.

The "Girokomeio", the old men's meeting place on the west promenade, under the trees. Life is far too leisurely.

One of the fishing boats leaving in the dusky light for a night's fishing.

A day's fishing is done. Back to the port to sit in a restaurant by the sea and talk about the one that got away.

Follow the golden stream of the sun reflecting on the calm sea of Ouranoupolis. You may not find gold but you will find what you have always been looking for.

A glass of tsipouro and good company at the Xenios Zeus. A wonderful way to while away the night.

The west side of Ouranoupolis, more sandy and tame.

The street leading to the church, draped in climbers and flowers.

The Drenia Islands
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.

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. The local tsipouro (reject the ouzo) is excellent.

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.

A lonely cove, a mere five square meters of sand where you can spend the day away from it all.

One of the rocky outcrops, many are much smaller. All you need is a boat and you can embark on a journey of discovery.

Arsanas: The border to Mount Athos
The Arsana, a monastic building just inside the wall which marks 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.

The actual border seen from the sea. Despite the few flimsy wires Mount Athos is inaccessible because of the nature of the terrain.

The ruins of Frangocastro, the castle of the Franks, rising through the pine forest on the border to Mount Athos.

Serviko: The unspoiled paradise.
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 beach is clean, golden sand, and the sun sets into the sea in a river of gold. Many visitors decide to stay the night there.

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.

You settle yourself under and umbrella by the shore and then you order. When your order is ready you serve yourself and enjoy it under your umbrella, by the sea.

There are many more places to visit but so little time. But then again if you will never get bored just sitting on the beach and watch the world go by. Isn't that what a holiday is all about?

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