When the Aegean summer fades and the crowds retreat, Greece reveals a quieter kind of beauty. And nowhere does winter cast its spell more elegantly than in Evia. Just an hour from Athens, the island offers mountain villages wrapped in fir forests, running streams, stone alleys, and the kind of restful silence you only find far from everyday life.

If you’re dreaming of crisp air, fireplaces, comforting food, and authentic Greek charm, Evia’s winter villages are the escape you didn’t know you needed.

1. A Winter Escape Just an Hour from Athens

Evia isn’t just a summer destination it transforms beautifully in winter.
From the slopes of Mount Dirfys to hidden hamlets carved into the forest, the island becomes a peaceful retreat where nature takes center stage.

Winter here means:
✔ clean mountain air
✔ cozy cafés
✔ stone villages with traditional architecture
✔ quiet walks under chestnut and fir trees
✔ moments that feel like a movie still

2. Steni — Evia’s Winter Star

Only 32 km from Chalkida, Steni is one of the most beloved winter destinations in Central Greece. Traditional stone houses, narrow lanes, and the area’s unique mix of firs, beeches and wild cherry trees create a fairytale atmosphere.

In winter, Steni often receives its first snowfall early, giving the village a snowy “coat” that makes everything feel dreamlike.

What to Do in Steni:

• Walk the stone alleys and village square

• Sip coffee in stone-built cafés

• Enjoy the view of Mount Dirfys wrapped in mist

• Visit local shops with honey, herbs & handmade ornaments

Why It Works:
It combines mountain charm with lively energy — perfect for a day trip or weekend stay.

3. Setta (Seta) — Quiet Beauty & Forest Charm

About an hour from Chalkida, Setta is quieter, smaller, and ideal for travelers seeking serenity.

Think:
 towering plane trees
 a trickling stream nearby
 traditional stone houses
 early winter quietness

Setta’s square invites you to slow down — to sit, watch the trees, breathe deeply, and enjoy the silence that only winter villages offer.

The drive in is gorgeous too, lined with forests and occasional views toward the sea.

4. Winter Woods & Stone Alleys

Imagine arriving at a mountain village where the only sounds are your footsteps on the cobblestones and water flowing from a nearby spring. You order a hot coffee, sit by a window framed with stone, and watch mist roll across the hills.

Evia in winter is built on these moments.

In Steni, the mix of firs, beeches and springs creates a soft, misty landscape.
In Setta, the silence itself is the attraction a place to pause, reflect and reconnect.

5. Fireside Flavours & Local Hospitality

Winter in Evia tastes as good as it feels.

Expect tavernas serving:
✔ wild greens pies
✔ roasted meats
✔ warming soups
✔ strong Greek coffee
✔ local wine in simple tumblers

During Christmas time, villages like Steni become even more atmospheric  decorated guesthouses, warm lights, and traditional products sold by local artisans.

When night falls early, you choose between a fireplace, a glass of local wine, or simply sitting outside wrapped in a blanket looking at the stars.

6. Outdoor Moments & Quiet Beauty

Evia’s winter isn’t only about snow — though some areas get it early.

It’s about:

• crisp mountain air

• fir-scented woods

• morning mist

• peaceful trails

• charming village churches

• hidden waterfalls in the forest

If you enjoy nature, photography, or slow travel, Evia delivers a rich winter mood without the long drive.

7. Planning Your Escape: Why Evia Works

Proximity: Just over an hour from Athens.
Authenticity: Real Greek villages, not resort-style tourism.
Seasonal Charm: Winter lights, fewer crowds, better prices.
Flexibility: Easy for a spontaneous day trip or a cozy overnight stay.

8. Travel My Day Tips

Pack warm layers — jackets, boots, gloves.
Choose a traditional guesthouse with stone walls and, if possible, a fireplace.
Download a trail map in advance (signal can be limited).
Try local products — honey, herbs, winter pies.
Take your time — the magic is in the unhurried pace.

9. Final Word

If Greece’s summer sparkle is the headline, then winter in Evia is the beautiful, calming footnote that stays with you.

Stone villages, misty forests, local tavernas and crisp mountain air come together to form a winter escape full of authenticity, tranquillity and quiet elegance.

Next time you plan a getaway, don’t think only of beaches  think fir trees, fireplaces, snowy cobbles and villages that feel like your own personal hideaway.

Because in Evia’s winter villages, winter isn’t just a season

it’s a mood.

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Indeed, Polyaigos impresses at first glance. Even before you get close to it, you’re full of admiration for the white vertical rocks, which stand imposingly above the sea and look like an oasis in the blue, pelagic waters of the Aegean.

Polyaigos was a point of contention between Milos and Kimolos during ancient times as to whether it belonged to the territory of one island or the other.

Even today, you will often find it among the places recommended for swimming when visiting Milos, even though in terms of sheer distances, it is closer to Kimolos, to which it belongs administratively: separated only by 1.07 nautical miles from its southeastern coast, while the distance to the eastern side of Milos is 3.77 nautical miles.

An island with untouched character

Although it was also known as Polivos or Hyolivos in the past, Polyaigos has dominated over the years due to the abundant goats still found here (Polyaigos means “many goats”).

With an area of ​​​​18,146 sq. km. and a coastline of 17 kilometres, Polyaigos is considered the largest uninhabited island of the Cyclades. However, this is inaccurate since the 2011 census recorded a pair of livestock farmers as permanent residents.

Indeed, Eleftheria and Petros Marianos don’t just graze their animals here: they come and go to Kimolos, but they also maintain a house known as Tis Panagias T’Avlaki – acting as an informal ‘port’ of the island since it is a deep bay relatively protected from strong winds.

In fact, Polyaigos is said to have had once a population of 170 people. However, this population steadily decreased over the years until 1972, when most of the inhabitants left.

However, every August 22, their descendants and many Kimoliates flock to the island to celebrate Panagia Poliviatissa, the island church, around which a famous festival is held.

Polyaigos: The Aegean oasis that maintains its inspiring untouched character

In the northwestern part of the island dominates the aforementioned church of Panagia Poliviatissa. It is a descendant of an older monastery dedicated to the Dormition of the Virgin, which we know was founded in 1622 and now stands in ruins.

To the east, at Cape Mascula, rises a lighthouse with a height of 9 metres. Built in 1898 on a hill at an altitude of (approximately) 130 metres, it now works automatically, and its beam can reach up to 22 miles.

In addition, there are two abandoned quarries where tracheitis—a hard volcanic rock useful for making millstones—and silvery barite were mined.

Polyaigos is not dry, but the vegetation tends to be low: apart from some cedars and tamarisks towards the coast, it is dominated by phrygana and evergreen shrubby plants.

In addition, due to the rare fauna that lives here, the island has joined the European Natura 2000 network.  However, the inclusion in Natura 2000 status is not the only reason for the untouched character that distinguishes Polyaigos, impressing those who come here.

The beaches of Polyaigos

With 27 kilometres of coastline, Polyaigos has many beaches, which are honoured by those who visit it in summer. Of course, all are unorganised. At the same time, the beaches are full of rocks in strange but charming formations.

There are also sea caves, the most famous of which is Fanara on the north side of the island, with its large holes in the roof: it has been captured in many photographs, as its size allows boats to sail.

Due to its proximity to Kimolos, Polyaigos’s most popular beach is Pano Mersini (or Myrsini), overlooking the rocky island of Manolonisi. Its white sand and calm, turquoise waters, generally protected from the strong Aegean winds, have made it a popular summer destination for many private boats and yachts.

A little bit further south is Kato Mersini, a strip of (also) white sand with a wonderful sea.

For hiking lovers, a path leads from Pano Myrsini to the aforementioned beach of Panagia T’Avlaki: It takes about one hour of walking to go and another hour to return. However, although the route is considered fairly easy, it’s probably best to do it with a local who knows it well (especially if you’re a first-time visitor).

Sailing south of Kato Mersini, you will see the small beach of Mantra, which has massive white rocks resembling sculptures. However, you will be impressed by the rock islands of Kalogeri, in whose bay, near the ruins of the old mines, you will find a small beautiful beach.

In the southwestern part of the island, another famous beach is the so-called Blue Waters. It has white sand and transparent blue waters with a crystalline feel. Many consider it one of the Cyclades’ most beautiful “hidden” beaches.

How to get there?

You can easily reach Polyaigos from Milos or Kimolos if you have your own speedboat or sailboat. After all, as we said before, you will see that at the height of the Greek summer, its most famous beaches are flooded with yachts.

In fact, many famous people have visited the island, like the former president of the USA, George Bush Sr, the current King Charles of Britain, and Italian star Monica Bellucci.

However, you’ll find plenty of boats and water taxi excursions if you don’t have a boat. Many start from Psathi in neighbouring Kimolos or Adamas and Pollonia in Milos, but some come from Folegandros, travelling 11.5 nautical miles, or Sifnos (from Platy Gialos Marina).

Since the beaches of Polyaigos are unorganised, you should bring umbrellas, hats, sunscreen, and maybe cold water with some snacks if not provided in your tour amenities.

You should also check the local wind forecast, as most beaches are almost inaccessible when it’s windy.

by Paul Antonopoulos

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It is a small natural port on the southwest side of Astypalaia, which you can reach by following a difficult dirt road. But you will definitely be compensated. What first sticks out are the grey gravel of the beach, mixed with sand, which glistened in the summer sun.

At Kaminakia, there are a few sunbeds and enough tamarisk trees that offer great natural shade.

What is certain is that, unlike other very small beaches on the island, here there is enough space to be comfortable. The fact that access is not the easiest works positively in that there will not be too many people, even in high season.

Those who love to snorkel will want to stay for several hours here.

If you’re looking for a spot to enjoy the view of the cove, it’s worth taking the road on the west side of the ravine.

After about 500 metres, you will reach the ruins of a Hellenistic tower from which its masonry is preserved.

Don’t forget to take a camera or mobile phone with you.

How to get there?

The beach is about 30 minutes by car from Chora. You will mainly be driving on a dirt road, which is quite difficult in some places, as mentioned above.

On the road before Vatses (another popular beach on the island), you will meet a fork and follow the signs. It is best to choose to return to your accommodation before sunset to avoid the hassle of driving on a dirt road at night.

An alternative way of approaching the beach is, of course, by boat.

Some tips for the holidays in Astypalaia

Astypalaia is the first “smart” and green island, allowing you to move electrically.

Most of the island’s beaches are at such a geographical point that the sun does not shine enough in the afternoon. This means that you can swim there without an umbrella.

Chora is a beautiful town and offers amazing photographic snapshots when you walk on the streets of the island.

Certainly, it is worth dedicating one day of your stay in Astypalaia to an excursion on tourist boats from Pera Gialos, which depart daily (weather permitting) for the remote beaches of the island and the islets of Kounoupes and Koutsomytis.

by PAUL ANTONOPOULOS

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Access to Chalikiada is not the easiest. You can only get there by walking, following the coastal road from Skala in a southeasterly direction. After Skliri beach, you will walk through a pine forest. Following a narrow path of about 500 metres, you will see the beach from above, an impressive sight.

Going down to the beach requires special care. Closed-toe shoes are essential, as at some point you will pass over a sheer cliff (the return climb is quite a bit easier).

What is certain is that the effort is compensated with a beach boasting large white pebbles and wonderfully calm waters, which deepen sharply about 5 metres from the shore.

In addition to drinking water—which you must bring with you as there is no infrastructure in Chalikiada—it is recommended that you get a mask or goggles, as the bottom of the beach is lovely.

If you are looking for a beach with easier access, you can choose the neighbouring beach in Skleri. It is a small cove with clear water and sand mixed with pebbles, which you will reach by following a beautiful path between white houses and greenery around you.

A visit to this corner of the Saronic Sea will surely make it clear why Chalikiada and Agistri are timeless favourites for nature lovers looking for a way to get away from the atmosphere of the big city without having to make a more distant and expensive journey.

Some tips and information for your stay in Agistri

The only pharmacy on the island is in Skala, while you will find an ATM in Skala and Megalochori.

Agistri has an area of ​​only 14 square kilometres. You don’t need a car, but you can rent a scooter or bike (if you trust your fitness, as several routes are uphill or downhill).

Some walking distances: from Skala to Megalochori, you will need less than 20 minutes; from Megalochori to Dragonera Beach, you will walk for about 35 minutes; and for one of the longest routes on the island, from Skala to the third settlement, the Limenaria, you will need a little more than 1 hour.

In the summer months, Agistri is often connected to the coasts of Methana and Epidaurus. Therefore, if you are vacationing for several days, you can combine your vacation in Agistri with an excursion and watch a theatre performance.

by PAUL ANTONOPOULOS

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Affleck is also known for his roles in the films ‘Gone Baby Gone’ (2007), ‘The Assassination of Jesse James by the Coward Robert Ford (2007) and ‘A Ghost Story’ (2017).

The 48-year-old actor and his partner, actress Caylee Cowan, left the spotlight for a while and embarked on a journey to our country, its timeless charm, and natural beauty.

Their trip included stays at the Dolli Hotel in Athens and Cape Sounio, two of Greece’s most luxurious destinations, New Money reported. Each offers a unique blend of elegance, comfort, and stunning scenery.

Cowan continued posting photos and stories on Instagram of her enjoying her dips in Dolli’s hotel pool. Throughout their visit, the loving couple immersed themselves in the serene beauty of Greece.

From the busy streets of Athens to the peaceful shores of Cape Sounio, they got to know the country’s diverse landscapes and rich cultural heritage. The couple’s Greek getaway was a perfect blend of adventure and relaxation, whether they were exploring the cultural heritage, enjoying gourmet meals at the hotel restaurants, or simply cycling and relaxing by the sea.

The Dolli is a boutique hotel in the heart of Athens that perfectly combines modern luxury with historic charm. Housed in a neoclassical building, this hotel offers guests an immersive experience of the city’s vibrant culture and ancient heritage.

The Dolli’s location is ideal for exploring Athens’ most famous attractions, such as the Acropolis and the bustling Plaka area.

Affleck and Cowan enjoyed the sophisticated atmosphere of Dolli, which features tastefully decorated rooms with contemporary furnishings, high ceilings, and large windows offering spectacular views of the city.

One of the hotel’s highlights is the rooftop terrace, which offers a panoramic view of the Acropolis. It is the perfect spot for the couple to relax and enjoy the beauty of Athens.

Dolli’s personalised service and attention to detail ensured their stay was both comfortable and memorable.

After their urban adventure in Athens, Affleck and Cowan retreated to Cape Sounio, a stunning resort on the Athenian Riviera. Nestled in a lush landscape and overlooking the Aegean Sea, Cape Sounio offers a peaceful escape from the city’s hustle and bustle.

This luxury resort is renowned for its impeccable service, beautiful surroundings and proximity to the ancient Temple of Poseidon.

Cape Sounio’s accommodations are designed to offer maximum comfort and privacy. The couple stayed in one of the resort’s stylish bungalows with private terraces with stunning sea views.

The resort’s infinity pool and private beach allowed them to relax and enjoy the crystal-clear waters of the Aegean.

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The editor of the extensive tribute, who visited the island last summer at the invitation of the Municipality of Ios, said he was fascinated by the youthful aura and positive energy of the island.

Despite the nightlife and the parties, Ios is kept clean, says the journalist in the article, who then records the effort being made for the destination to develop and highlight its other interesting dimensions.

Gastronomy, alternative activities, festivals, marine tourism, trails and very interesting historical monuments such as the tomb of Homer and the prehistoric settlement of Skarkos are very worthwhile experiences.

According to The Sun, Ios is no longer just a magnet for young people, but is an ideal place for families with young children, couples in love, nature lovers, hikers, travelers outside the high season, but also “empty nesters”, parents with grown children.

“Ios means energy. The feeling of renewal that the island generously offers, we seek to preserve and highlight it by developing different aspects, such as special forms of tourism, culture and sports events,” said the chairman of the Tourism Committee of the Municipality of Ieton, Antonis Mettos.

“The significant increase in traffic in non-peak tourist months such as May, June , September and October confirms that we are on the right track,” he added.

Alongside the promotion in international media and in view of the next season, the Municipality of Ieton seeks to inspire the friends of the destination through the new video about what took place at the last Ios Festival, which was interspersed with concerts, visual events, music, dances and exhibitions.

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Although I wasn’t even born then, I imagine that 50s/60s Greek islands looked pretty much as Alonissos does today. The pine-clad and serene island with each beach very different from the other remains generally unaffected by tourism and all the modern, often sadly deriding infrastructure that goes with it. The island has a dreamy, innocent and natural ambiance that makes it ideal for couples, friends and even the whole family.

Eco-island

Known as the heart of Europe’s largest Marine Park (since 1992), which is home to Caretta Caretta sea turtles, the Mediterranean monk seal, various species of dolphins and exciting aquatic life, Alonissos in the Northern Sporades is a natural gem. The vast Marine Park (2260 km) is made up of seven islands: Alonissos, Peristera, Kyra Panagia (with it beautiful monastery), Gioura, Psathoura, Piperi and Skantzoura, and 22 small islets. The island is also home to the International Academy of Classic Homeopathy run by the ‘modern father of homeopathy’ Professor George Vithoulkas: medical doctors interested in introducing homeopathy into their practice visit there from around the world to follow his courses, and Vithoulkas has his home on land where he grows his own fruit and vegetables and is known to get around with his electric car. Overall, the island has developed an ecological character that was boosted further a few years ago when it became the first in Greece to ban plastic bags.

Exploring villages

The Old Town of Chora is a delight to walk around with its low-rise whitewashed houses with terracotta roofs built on a hill, abundant nature like climbing vines and magnificent wildflowers, narrow roads, simple yet interesting shops and low-key cafes and tavernas. The scenic, lush and hilly island is great for hiking and a local artist, Bente Keller, who has an art gallery in the Old Town sells her hiking guide at her store; also, consider Alonissos for a springtime visit as its hills and mountains like Kalovoulos, Megalo Chorafi and Kouvouli, the highest, become carpeted with beautiful varieties of flowers and herbs, olive groves and fruit trees. There are 14 marked hiking trails to explore; for a good trek go from the Old Village to Patitiri, then to Megalos Mourtias and back to Patitiri (two hours, medium difficulty), or from the Old Village to Yialia beach and then back to the Old Village (two hours, medium difficulty).

Another great village to visit is more contemporary Patitiri, the port town, where you’ll find a good choice of cafes, restaurants, and bars as well as the essential stores and where you can also visit the Alonissos Museum to discover the antique history and cultural heritage of the island.

Underwater adventures

You can also enjoy discovering the island by sea – rent a kayak or boat trip and go around the island to find wild beaches and coves, or go scuba diving to get acquainted with the big blue around the marine park, Spartina bay and the surrounding deserted islands such as Gioura. You could also visit the 1200 AD sunken Byzantine ship in the waters of Aghios Petros or go to Psathoura to explore the remnants of an ancient city.

Swimming

If you’re looking for one of those endless, organised beaches with water-sports head to popular Aghios Dimitrios. At Leftos Gialos you’ll also find umbrellas and sunbeds for rent as well as a (somewhat noisy) beach bar and restaurant, but the water is crystal clear. Kokkinokastro is known as the “red beach” as the rocks surrounding it have a deep ruddy shade. It is also organised but off-season can be enjoyed for its wild beauty, and the water is clean and clear here too. If you’re in the mood to discover a shard of ancient pottery, head to Tsoukalia beach, where an ancient ceramics factory once stood, and where legend has it that the sea-bed is strewn with pieces. For a more natural option – with fewer umbrellas and sunbeds but also a taverna so you can spend the day here, is Megali Ammos beach.

Food

One of the most magical experiences to enjoy in Alonissos is dinner in the small, natural harbour of Steni Valla, where sailors and yachters hop off their boats to have dinner at the unpretentious Tassia’s Taverna. Decorated with gardenias, basil, and bougainvillea, the taverna serves the best langoustine pasta, fresh seafood as well as rare-to-find salads like sea samphire. For home-cooked-style ‘mageirefta’ and seafood go to Meltemi in Megalos Mirtias. At Kastro in the Old Town, you’ll find a traditional grill and homemade specialties, and at Afrod in Rousoum Yialos you can enjoy a seaside dinner of refreshing, colourful salads and fresh fish. Also in the Old Town is Hayiati, which is a great place for breakfast as well as a sunset drink as it’s set on a balcony overlooking a scenic landscape.

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