Porto Heli:
A Le Collectionist Guide

The wealthy and aristocratic have long flocked to this haven along mainland Greece’s coast for its picturesque natural beauty and promises of privacy. A treasure trove of culture, discover Le Collectionist’s essentials for a blissful holiday in Porto Heli.

Porto Heli’s vineyards deliver both scenic beauty and gustatory delight. Sip and savour the locally-produced wine at the source in historic wineries that date back generations. As you do so, take in the sloping hills and verdant landscapes that surround you.

Satisfy your intellectual curiosity on a guided tour around the nearby ancient city, Epidavros, an area steeped in culture and intriguing historic ruins such as their ancient theatre. Then, after a day of sightseeing, unwind in an area of remarkable natural beauty.

Nafplion has plenty of stories to tell, as the first capital of Greece. Having well preserved its traditional character and authenticity, it is a pleasure to meander down its stone-paved narrow alleys and admire the colourful balconies adorned with bougainvillaeas. Rest your legs at one of the family-run cafes and tavernas and enjoy a meal or coffee. And of course, climb up the Palamidi Castle overlooking the entire bay!

The island boasts an authentic beauty, untouched by time, with awe-inspiring aristocratic architecture and traditional courtyards. More catered towards tourism, there is an abundance of activities and sites of wonder to keep you entertained for hours, only a boat trip away.

Adrenaline lovers can opt for a canoe or kayak tour to explore the exquisite channels and hidden bays of Porto Heli that stud the coastline or practise the countless watersports offered in some of the area’s coasts.

A microworld, right on the seafront, Villa Mirror can host 16 guests in absolute comfort. Nested within a lush pine forest, the villa enjoys utter seclusion and serenity while the sea is right at its foot.

Another astounding property, the only residence on a verdant peninsula, Villa Tatler enjoys panoramic views to the sea and the surrounding hills that are carpeted with olive and pine trees. Its 14 guests will love the privacy of its arrangement – a main two-storey house and two separate guesthouses – and the serenity of its location.

A tranquil, unorganised coast at the area of Agios Emilianos, this sandy coast is only 4km from Porto Heli. With clean waters and lots of natural shade as the trees stretch towards the shoreline, Chryssi Atki is the ideal spot to reconnect with nature.

One of the most popular coasts of the area, Costa is the beach of the homonymous village and is truly deserving of its fame. With a sandy coast, crystal-clear, calm waters and many beach facilities, it makes the perfect location for families wanting to spend a day in the sun.

Whitish pebbles and transparent, turquoise waters characterise this tranquil coast and give it an irresistible charm. The cypress trees along the coast create a magical scenery, apart from providing lots of natural shade.

A totally tranquil and secluded coast located near the homonymous Korakia islets, this beach is only accessible by sea or a rough dirt road. Due to its difficult access the coast is calm, uncrowded and untouched.

This beach comprises two adjacent bays, one with a pebbled coast and sandy seabed and, the other, with golden sand and deep waters. Watersports lovers will adore this place as it offers a plethora of adventures and activities.

With over 40 years of expertise in creating and serving mouthwatering Mediterranean dishes, Doroufi Restaurant is rich in local knowledge and wisdom. Located right on the seashore of the Doroufi Ermionidas area, here you will enjoy their fresh catch of the day and seafood with unobstructed views of the sea.

Doroufi Restaurant
Doroufi, Ermionidas, 21300

Another landmark restaurant right in the heart of Porto Heli – Karaiskaki Square – Alexandra serves everything from snacks and comfort food to a full menu of modern dishes, inspired from Greek and Mediterranean cuisine.

Allow your tastebuds to ferry you across the seas in this relatively new addition in Porto Heli. Drawing inspiration from local fish and seafood, the restaurant offers a contemporary twist on traditional Greek and Mediterranean cuisine, notably drawing inspiration from Japan in novel and unexpected ways.

A wine-lover’s paradise, Veranda del Vino promises a vast selection of vintages. Focusing primarily on Greece’s produce, this wine restaurant will also startle you with the wine pairing proposals. In these expert matchmaker’s hands, revel in these sensory delights, as you look out towards the sea.

One of the area’s most beautiful beach bars, Godai is a brilliant fusion of Japanese and Peloponnesian aesthetics. On the seashore of Petrothalassa beach, it offers a fantastic selection of cocktails and mouth-watering dishes.

In this bar, with a tantalising cocktail in hand, dance to the beats of their several DJ sets through the season, getting lost in its tropical ambiance.

Join the crowds of tourists and locals that flock every September to the Armata Festival to honour Spetes’ naval contributions to the 1821 Revolution. Marvel at the dazzling fireworks that light up the night sky, put your rhythm to the test with traditional folk dances and join in the jubilations with theatrical performances and music. Culminating with a replica of a Turkish boat bursting into flames, this historical event is certainly not to be missed.

The low hills that are adorned with olive trees, cypresses and vineyards make a perfect adventure trail for all the family. Wander around the lush greenery at your own pace for the perfect day-out. Stop off at a local taverna to enjoy the finest regional produce, where wine, cheese, fish and olives thrive in the temperate climate.

In a nutshell
Hiking/ Nature

Porto Heli’s expansive port welcomes yachters from across the globe so what better way to embrace the cosmopolitan lifestyle than by taking to the seas. With so many alluring nearby destinations, the best way to explore is via boat. Why not explore the mysteries of the Franchthi Cave, believed to be home to an underwater village, or transport your family in time back to the ancient polis of Epidaurus, where the healing sanctuaries and ancient theatre tell the story of the ancient worlds.

Trekking is the perfect way for all of the family to explore Porto Heli’s untouched wilderness and unparalleled beauty. Trace along the coast from the Ermioni seaside village to the Environmental Park for magnificent scenery and expansive views of the azure waters that glimmer under the Mediterranean sun. Just make sure to remember your sunhat and sunscreen!

Take a private boat trip to Spetses and Hydra

Master Mediterranean cooking in a private cooking class

Taste the region’s wines

Cruise along the coast by kite- or wind-surfing

With an increasingly temperate climate yet without hordes of tourists, spring is an excellent time to explore Porto Heli’s architectural, cultural riches and beaches. If you are seeking a truly secluded luxury holiday, visiting in these milder months is the perfect time to create this blissful experience. 

At the height of the season, enjoy the vibrant atmosphere of Porto Heli in summer yet still without the flocks of tourists that head for other Mediterranean hotspots. Often described as a time warp to the likes of St Tropez in the 1970s, enjoy the radiant sunshine without having to fight for a spot along the white, sandy beaches.

As the summer fades and Porto Heli’s tourists return home, it becomes a tranquil haven for those still longing to cling onto summer. Particularly in September, without crowds and the busting noise of high-season tourism, enjoy the tranquillity of the sweeping landscape and beckoning waters with full reign of the secluded bays and coves that line the coast.