Spetses

Spetses is an island that boasts a long naval tradition, playing a crucial role in Greece's maritime history. Located in the Saronic Gulf, it has been a hub of naval activity since ancient times, but its significance peaked during the Greek War of Independence in the 19th century. The island was home to skilled shipbuilders and courageous sailors who contributed significantly to the struggle for independence. Its strategic location and powerful fleet made it a key player in the battle against Ottoman rule. Today, Spetses’ rich maritime heritage is reflected in its well-preserved historical sites, such as the Bouboulina Museum, dedicated to the island's female naval hero, Laskarina Bouboulina, and the iconic Spetses Maritime Museum. The island's connection to the sea remains strong, with many visitors drawn to its historic harbour and the continued tradition of boat building and seafaring.

Spetses is also a very picturesque island, known not only for its rich history but charming beauty, and serene atmosphere. With its well-preserved neoclassical architecture, cobblestone streets, and lush landscapes, the island offers a perfect blend of tradition and elegance. Visitors are captivated by its vibrant harbour, lined with elegant mansions and cafes, where yachts and traditional wooden boats dock. The island’s natural beauty is marked by pine forests, crystal-clear waters, and sandy beaches, making it an ideal destination for relaxation and exploration. Spetses has a deep historical significance, particularly in the Greek War of Independence, where it played a pivotal role with its brave naval contributions. Today, the island retains a timeless charm, combining history, culture, and natural beauty in a way that enchants anyone who visits.

Horse-drawn carriages offer a perfect romantic trip around the island giving visitors the chance to admire the grand mansions that line the cobbled streets.  One of the best times to visit Spetses is during September when the “Armata” takes place – a truly impressive reenactment of a naval battle that has been repeated ever since 1931.  The history and naval tradition of Spetses is reflected in the numerous sites that should be high on any visitors list of things to see:

The House of Bouboulina, built around the end of the 17th Century – Bouboulina was a heroine that played a significant part during the 1821 War of Independence.  The house now operates as a museum and contains an impressive collection of 18th and 19th Century furniture, old weapons, fine porcelain and rare books.  The house of Hatzigiannis Mexis today holds a museum of relics from the War of Independence with objects on display representing over 4000 years of the island’s history.  The Cathedra, of Ayios Nikolaos is where the island’s Independence flag was first raised on 3 April 1821.  It was also here that the dead body of Paul Bonaparte (nephew of Napoleon) who came to Greece to fight was kept in a barrel of rum for 3 years.  Other interesting sites include the War Memorial of the Spetses Navy, the Clock in Rologioú Square, and the Anargyreios Korgialeneios School.  Situated in the area of Kounoupitsa, today it houses the Centre of Environmental Education.

Head to the island’s sun-drenched beaches and swim in the azure waters backed by beautiful pine forests.  Ayioi Anargyroi is one of the largest beaches on the island where watersports are also offered.  Ayia Paraskevi is a sandy beach on the western side of the island – watersports are also offered here.  Ayia Marina (2km south-east of Dapia) is the most popular beach on the island – sandy and lined with beach bars and tavernas with plenty of watersports this beach is often quite busy.  Xylokeriza is a secluded beach around 8km from Dapia and mainly accessible by boat.  Vrellos is a beautiful sandy beach surrounded by pine forest – often also known as Paradise beach.  Vrellos is also an ideal starting point for a great walking trail towards Prifitis Elias which isw the highest point on Spetses.  Zogeria is considered by many also to be the most beautiful beach on the island – pine trees stretch almost to the waters edge, and weather permitting there are breathtaking views all the way to Nafplion on the mainland.