Greece is well know for all the holiday islands dotted around its coastal area. However it does have its own Riviera, the well heeled Athenians, move out of the Capital during the intense heat of summer and head to the Eastern coast in particularly around Glyfada, where there are plenty of fine luxury resorts.
However, flying into Athens International Airport located to the West of Athens opens up an opportunity to considerably reduce transfer times and head to the coastal town of Vravrona,Brauron only 20 minutes drive.
This is a small idyllic spot with one main hotel, the 5 star Dolce Wyndham Resort, located some 10 minutes walk from the small town.
History meets culture, the past meets the present and unspoiled natural beauty meets contemporary comfort and luxury in the perfect blend. This is what Brauron is all about, with a plethora of sights and attractions captivating the interest of travelers from around the world.
The hotel affords all the luxuries you would associate with the brand and has a sizeable pool and a private beach, with all associated bars and restaurant options.
This is an ideal break to tack onto a trip to the Capital, and makes the return so much easier with such a short trip back to the airport.
The accommodation is perfect, and a room with swim up pool and balcony boasts wonderful views over the sea
The walk down to the town is easy enough and buses seem to be regular a small grocery store is only 100 yards from the hotel.
There are about five restaurant options in Vravrona, all good, the best is exceptional sat out on the beach.
We would highly recommend for somewhere different all at a Greek pace.
SPA : The hotel boasted a fabulous spa just the tonic after challenging day in the sun !
THINGS TO DO locally :
The prominent site of Artemis with the sanctuary and the dedicated to the Goddess stands out as the greatest proof of the sacred significance of the area. The Archaeological Museum is located just 2 kilometers from the sanctuary, inviting you to visit the rich collection of exhibits.
Attica Zoo Park is found 15 kilometers away from the hotel in Brauron and offers the opportunity for a different experience. A walk through in the late afternoon when the sun has gone down is lovely time to take in some of the rarest species on Earth.
Shopping : No trip would be complete without a spot of retail therapy! One of the main attractions in the area is McArthurGlen Athens a massively popular mall in Spata and just adjacent to Attica Zoo Park. There is a huge variety of stores, entertainment options, cafés and restaurants.
Diving/Beach : Porto Rafti, Cape Sounio and Rafina are places you can visit to take in some diving in the crystal clear waters on the coastline. At Cape Sounio particularly, you will be able to admire the imposing Temple of Poseidon.
But as all things you do have to leave all that late summer sun behind you!