Marathópolis is the port of the town of Gargaliani. The waterfront promenade, with its fish restaurants and cafés, gives the town a tangible connection to the sea. Nearby are beaches, the island of Proti and the port of Dialiskari. When deciding whether Marathópolis is right for your stay, it is worth distinguishing between places in the town and destinations in the surrounding area: Vourlia on Proti is accessible only by boat from Marathópolis.

Beaches and a wreck off Proti

Nearby beaches include Lagouvardos, Ai-Giannakis, Vromoneri and Chrysi Akti, also known as Mati. Vourlia is also on the nearby island of Proti. The wreck of a merchant ship lies in the beach’s shallow waters; it was accidentally bombed by the Allies during the Second World War. The wreck provides shelter for abundant underwater fauna and is considered a snorkeling attraction. For travelers interested in snorkeling, the underwater life is therefore a notable part of the experience, alongside the beach itself. Planning a boat trip from Marathópolis is essential when visiting Vourlia.

Proti between the coast and archaeology

Proti acts as a natural breakwater and lies two nautical miles from the port of Marathos. The island is opposite Marathópolis. At its southern end are the ruins of a Mycenaean acropolis, with some sections of the walls still standing. A sea-kayaking tour in the Trifylia region visits the island of Proti after exploring beaches along the Ionian Sea. If you are planning this tour, check in advance whether it is offered on your travel dates.

Church, festivals and ancient finds

The Church of the Transfiguration of the Savior is in the town. The Feast of the Transfiguration of the Savior is celebrated on August 6, followed by the Feast of the Dormition of the Mother of God on August 15. If you would like to plan your trip around either of these festivals, check the event dates for your travel period.

Dialiskari also connects the area around Marathópolis with ancient history. The port is two kilometers from the town. Significant ancient finds, mainly from Roman times, were uncovered there in the 1920s and 1930s. These finds led to Dialiskari being identified with ancient Erana. This brings together two distinct historical points of interest: the Mycenaean acropolis on Proti and the predominantly Roman finds near Dialiskari.

Marathópolis as a base for your stay

The promenade, fish restaurants and cafés are in town; the beaches mentioned above, Proti and Dialiskari offer additional destinations nearby. Those particularly interested in maritime themes will find them both at the wreck near Vourlia and on Proti, which acts as a natural breakwater. For culture and history, the church and August festivals in town, along with the distinct ancient sites on Proti and near Dialiskari, offer further points of interest. This mix can help you decide whether Marathópolis matches the interests you are looking for when choosing accommodation.

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