Paralio Astros

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Paralio Astros

Paralio Astros is an authentic Greek village with nice atmosphere and hospitable locals. The picturesque village resembles to an island and is the port of the historic Astros. It is situated in the prefecture of Arcadia, on the east coast of the Peloponnese, 31 km from tie city of Nafplion. It is the main summer resort of Arcadia and Argolida, but in recent years it has experienced significant tourist development, attracting visitors from other parts of the country as well.

Part of the village is built amphitheatrically on a hill called "nisi" (meaning island in Greek). The castle above the beach and port was built in 1256 by Gillaume de Villardhuin who called it Castello della Estella, meaning Castle of the Star, due to the asteroid shape of the peninsula on which it is built. Inside the castle are three houses built by three brothers of the Zafeiropoulos family who supported the fight for Independence back in the 18th century. The view over the beautiful Argolis Bay from the top of the hill is breathtaking and definitely a visit is worthwhile.

The hill with the picturesque alleys and the traditional tile-roofed houses is the most picturesque part of this village. The main big square by the port is full of cafes and tavernas open all day. There you can enjoy delicious Greek food and have a relaxed coffee time. An outdoor theater where various cultural events take place during the summer, a small stone lighthouse that operated from 1893 to 1999, a statue of a mermaid near the outdoor theater and a small chapel dedicated to Profitis Ilias are the most important attractions. In front of the village stretches a nice beach with calm waters, ideal place for families with children. The sea is among the cleanest that you will find in Greece and attracts tourists from all over the Peloponnese. There are beach beds and umbrellas that you can rent though some of them belong to the nearby cafes and all you need to do is buy a drink and it is yours for the day.

Paralio Astros is a good base to stay and explore the surrounding area such as the nearby Mostou Natural Wetlands a protected area which contains a large number of birds and other wildlife. Astros is also close enough to visit Nafplion, Mycenae, Epidaurus, Ancient Nemea, Ancient Corinth and just about anywhere in Arcadia. The charming village is an excellent destination that you will love at first sight.