A coastal resort town on the Corinthian Gulf, known for its thermal springs and mineral water. The Casino Club draws visitors to this calm Mediterranean spot.
Located an hour west of Athens, Loutraki extends along the Gulf of Corinth with the Geraneia mountains rising behind it. People have bathed in its mineral springs since Roman times, and today you'll find locals filling water bottles at the public fountain in the town park. Walk along the 2-kilometer beach, explore the 8th-century BCE temple ruins at Heraion, or swim in Lake Vouliagmeni where the water stays warm enough for swimming even in December.
Getting to Loutraki
Drive from Athens in about an hour along the highway, with €3.90 tolls each way. Buses leave from Athens' Kifissos station throughout the day, taking 75 minutes. Take the Proastiakos train from Athens Airport to Corinth, then catch a local bus to Loutraki.
Thermal Springs and Spa
The Loutraki Thermal Spa operates from a restored 1934 building with modern additions. Mountain springs feed magnesium-rich waters directly into indoor and outdoor pools. Visit the traditional hammam baths, saunas, and treatment rooms. Fill your water bottle for free at the public fountain in the town park.
Beach and Swimming Areas
The main beach stretches 2 kilometers along the Gulf of Corinth. Cafes and restaurants dot the shoreline, and the clear waters remain calm through most of the summer. Swimming season runs from May through October. The beach surface transitions between sand and smooth pebbles, with umbrella and sunbed rentals available throughout.
Ancient Heraion Archaeological Site
Find the ruins of Hera's sanctuary 16 kilometers from town, at the tip of the Perachora peninsula. Walk among temple foundations, ancient cisterns, and a small harbor from the 8th century BCE. Look across the gulf to spot the mountains of northern Greece.
Lake Vouliagmeni
A narrow channel connects this saltwater lake to the sea, creating protected swimming conditions throughout the year. High cliffs surround the lake, maintaining mild water temperatures even in winter. Stop at one of the fish tavernas along the shore, or rent a kayak to circle the lake's perimeter.
Mountain Monasteries
Climb 10 kilometers up the Geraneia mountains to reach Osios Patapios Monastery. Inside, discover the saint's relics in a cave church, and look out across the Corinthian Gulf from the monastery terraces. The hiking trail winds through pine forests, taking about three hours round trip.
Food and Local Specialties
Order fresh seafood caught in the gulf at waterfront restaurants. In the mountain village of Pisia, eat roasted lamb and wild greens at traditional tavernas. Visit nearby Nemea wineries to taste local Agiorgitiko wine.
