Styra and Nea Styra: The All-Time Classic Resort
Nea Styra and Styra, two stunning destinations in south Evia, blend history with natural beauty, offering unforgettable experiences for visitors of all ages. With rich cultural heritage, beautiful beaches, and unique attractions, they are the perfect choice for short getaways or longer vacations.
Nea (New) Styra: An Ideal Escape from Athens
Just 45 minutes by ferry from Agia Marina, Attica, Nea Styra has become one of the most popular destinations for Athenians throughout the year. Once a quaint fishing village, it is now a developed tourist settlement offering a variety of accommodations, dining, and entertainment options.
The charm of Nea Styra lies in its relaxed atmosphere, stunning beaches, and remarkable sights that provide a complete travel experience. Nea Styra is not just a summer destination but perfect for year-round visits, whether for vacations or weekend escapes during both summer and winter.
The area offers options for all preferences: from family vacations on organized beaches to more adventurous activities like hiking and diving. The small island of Stouronisi is a popular spot for snorkeling and underwater exploration.
Styra village: A Traditional Settlement with History
Built in a strategic location between the Evoikos Gulf and Aegean Sea, Styra village boasts a long history dating back to ancient times. From antiquity to modern times, the area has played a significant role in many historical events. According to tradition, Styra participated in the Trojan War and the Persian Wars.
Visitors can admire stone-built houses and picturesque cobblestone streets, while a visit to the Castle of Armena on Mount Kliosi is highly recommended. This medieval monument is one of the most important landmarks of the region.
The Villages Around Nea Styra
The wider area of Nea Styra is home to several traditional villages that retain the authentic charm of Evia.
Kapsala: Known for its impressive dragon houses and its significant Folklore Museum, Kapsala offers a unique view of the Styra Gulf. Located near the stunning beach of Niborio, it is an ideal destination for those seeking tranquility and natural beauty.
Polypotamos: Situated at the narrowest point of Evia, it is famous for the stone roofs of its houses. From here, you can explore the picturesque village of Elaoochori or Karalides in the local dialect.
Tsakaioi: Built in a lush area, Tsakaioi offers peace and seclusion, perfect for those looking to unwind in nature.
Almyropotamos: This seaside village is known for Panagia Beach, where you can enjoy fresh fish at the local taverns.
Mesochoria: A picturesque village extending towards the Aegean. Limnionas Beach and the small Almyrichi Beach are favorite spots for swimming and exploration.
Must-See Attractions
Castle of Armena: A Historic Landmark with Breathtaking Views
The Castle of Armena stands atop Mount Kliosi at an altitude of 450 meters, making it one of the most significant medieval monuments in southern Evia. Built during the Frankish period on the walls of the ancient Acropolis of Styra, the castle combines historical influences spanning from antiquity to the Middle Ages.
Its megalithic gateway, known as the Armena Gate, still stands today and offers a stunning panoramic view of the Evian Gulf and the Gulf of Styra, making it one of the most photographed spots in the area. The castle’s location provided a strategic advantage, allowing oversight of maritime routes since ancient times.
Inside the castle, visitors can see remnants of Roman quarries, from which the famous cipollino marble was extracted, and the small chapel of Panagia, dating back to the 13th century. The area surrounding the castle is rich in natural beauty, with lush vegetation and wildflowers. The trails leading to it provide a unique experience for those who want to combine historical exploration with nature.
The Castle of Armena is a remarkable opportunity for visitors to discover the rich history and cultural heritage of the region, while the breathtaking views leave an indelible impression.
Dragon Houses: A Mysterious Attraction
One of the most famous and mysterious attractions in the area is the renowned Dragon Houses, megalithic structures dating back to the 8th century BC that remain a subject of archaeological study. Theories about their use vary: they may have been pagan religious monuments, quarry workers' residences, or even burial sites.
There are two main locations where you can see these impressive monuments:
Styra Dragon Houses:Near Styra, in the area of Pallis-Lakkas, lies a complex of three Dragon Houses in good condition. Access is easy, requiring a 10-minute hike from the road connecting Styra with Karystos. The well-marked path continues to the Castle of Armena, offering a wonderful route for nature and history enthusiasts.
Kapsala Dragon House:One of the most easily accessible Dragon Houses is near the village of Kapsala, about 6 kilometers from Styra, along the provincial road to Karystos. A sign indicates the location, making it ideal for those who want to see these mysterious structures without needing to hike.
Folklore Museum of Kapsala
The Folklore Museum in the village of Kapsala offers a glimpse into the region's traditions and history. The small but well-curated exhibit includes local costumes and everyday objects from past eras. Each summer, the museum’s courtyard hosts a traditional festival (panigiri).
The Best Beaches in the Area
The area around Nea Styra offers beaches for every preference, from organized shores to secluded coasts with wild natural beauty.
Nea Styra Port Beach
For those seeking an easy and organized option, the beach next to Nea Styra’s port is ideal for families. Its shallow waters are safe for children, while the coastline features cafes, taverns, and beach bars for food and drinks.
Niborio Beach
Just outside Nea Styra, Niborio Beach has become quite popular, attracting many visitors looking for moments of relaxation and refreshment. With its golden sands and pristine turquoise waters, the beach provides an idyllic setting for those who wish to enjoy nature’s beauty. The seabed is exceptionally clear and crystalline, making it one of the most stunning beaches in the area.
Mesochoria Beaches
The Mesochoria area features two unique beaches worth visiting. Limnionas Beach is famous for its large cave, which provides natural shade, it is ideal for exploration and for its rocks, which are popular for diving.
The beach features traditional taverns offering fresh fish. Next to Limnionas lies the picturesque Tsakaioi Beach,a small cove with characteristic stone houses and a cave inviting visitors to discover it.
One of the most well-known beaches in Mesochoria is Almyrichi Beach.This popular destination boasts breathtaking scenery, attracting camping and nature enthusiasts. Its crystal-clear waters and the scenic cave on the southern side of the beach offer a unique experience for visitors, making it perfect for relaxation and exploration.
Almyropotamos Beaches
The village of Almyropotamos and its Panagia seaside village, a quaint harbor with calm waters and natural shade, are very popular destinations in south Evia. Equally famous is Agios Dimitrios Beach (Argyro),a family-friendly beach with a smooth seabed and clear waters.
Charakas Beach
For those seeking a more secluded and challenging-to-reach option, Charakas Beach is ideal. Although access may be more difficult, the natural beauty of the beach rewards every visitor. The landscape is enchanting, with wild cliffs and clear waters. In the past, the area was known for a shipwreck that added a mysterious aura to the scenery.
Zarakes Beach or Friniakos
Another excellent choice for families is Zarakes Beach or Friniakos.The shallow waters and the rocky reef near the shore provide safe conditions for playing and exploring the water, making it perfect for children.
Activities and Explorations
The area offers a wide range of activities, from water sports to hiking.
Water ski Water skiing and canoeing can be enjoyed in Almyropotamos.
Diving at enchanting spots such as Stouronisi and the Mesochoria reef.
Hiking to the Castle of Armena and the Dragon Houses provides unique experiences for nature lovers.
The beaches in the area are also popular for fishing, with Panagia Beach considered an excellent fishing spot.
Magical Sunsets in Nea Styra
One of the most enchanting experiences you can have in Evia is watching the sunsets in Nea Styra. This seaside area offers unique views as the sun sets into the crystal-clear waters of the Evian Gulf, painting the sky with stunning shades of orange, pink, and purple.
The view from the beach, with fishing boats gently floating on the water and quaint taverns along the coast, creates an atmosphere filled with serenity and romance. Nea Styra is the perfect place to enjoy a quiet evening, capture unforgettable photos, and end your day relaxing by the sea.
Local Flavors and Leisure Suggestions
Don’t miss the chance to try local delicacies at the traditional fish taverns in Nea Styra. Fresh fish and seafood, accompanied by local liqueurs made from tsipouro and infused with fresh fruit flavors, represent the essence of the gastronomic experience in the area.
It’s also worth visiting the meat taverns in the villages of Reouzi and Styra, where you can savor local specialties with fresh, locally sourced meats. For coffee and desserts, head to the square in Styra, where you can relax while enjoying the stunning scenic view.
It’s also worth visiting the meat taverns in the villages of Reouzi and Styra,where you can savor local specialties with fresh, locally sourced meats. For coffee and desserts, head to the square in Styra, where you can relax while enjoying the stunning scenic view.
Where to stay in Nea Styra and Styra
The area offers a wide range of accommodation options to suit every preference and budget. From comfortable sea-view hotels to traditional rental houses and villas nestled in nature, visitors can find the perfect place to stay.
For those who prefer the comfort of a hotel, there are modern establishments with all amenities. Meanwhile, travelers seeking more authentic experiences can choose traditional homes in the area’s picturesque villages. Many of these options are conveniently located close to beaches and attractions, offering unique moments of relaxation and rest. here for more on accommodation in Styra and the surrounding area.
How to Get to Nea Styra
Reaching Nea Styra is easy both by ferry from Agia Marina, Attica, and by road via Chalkida. From Chalkida, the distance is approximately 92 kilometers.
For those choosing the ferry, the journey from Agia Marina takes about 45 minutes, making Nea Styra an ideal destination for short getaways from Athens.
Takeaway
Styra and Nea Styra are classic destinations that combine history, tradition, and natural beauty. Whether you’re seeking relaxation on the beaches or exploring the archaeological sites of the area, this part of Evia has something for everyone. Plan your next getaway and discover the authentic charm of south Evia.
