Looking for adventure? This untamed island is the Caribbean's best-kept secret
However, that same remoteness is exactly what once made Saba both uninviting and intriguing. In 1493, the island caught the eye of Christopher Columbus, who chose not to stop there due to its craggy coast. Ironically, what deterred explorers later drew in outlaws: The island eventually became a favorite hiding place for pirates and smugglers, who found refuge in its steep cliffs and secluded coves. Climb Mount Scenery
Seen from both the land and the sea, the dormant volcano of Mount Scenery is the pinnacle of Saba and the highest point in the Kingdom of the Netherlands. Though there are several trails to follow, the most strenuous is the 1,064 stairs to the summit—certainly not for the faint of heart.
Although much of the land remained unused until the 20th century, the gentler slopes were actively farmed up until the 1960s, when construction of the Mount Scenery Trail began. 'My task was carrying cement and water on my father's donkey. Four men and four donkeys. I started in 1969 and completed the steps to the very last in 1970,' recalls local and guide, James 'Crocodile' Johnson.
Along the trail, wild flora and fauna hug the path on every side and Giant Taro, or 'elephant ears,' act as shelter from tropical downpours. Near the summit, two narrow paths lead hikers into the heart of the cloud forest, where a cool-mist is welcomed and the area is dense with mahogany trees. There are more than 30 protected diving sites around Saba. Photograph by Fotograferen.net / Alamy Stock Photo (Top) (Left) and Photograph by D. Holden Bailey / Alamy Stock Photo (Bottom) (Right) Visit the top dive sites
The peak of an extinct volcano in the northern Lesser Antilles, Saba is surrounded by sea cliffs and bays which lead to spectacular dive sites. The island is particularly renowned for its pinnacles and seamounts (underwater volcanoes) that rise to within 85 feet of the surface. Here, there's more than 30 protected dive sites just minutes from the harbor and it's also home to the Atlantic Ocean's largest submerged atoll.
(This tiny island is the best place to dive in the Caribbean)
The ring-shaped reefs are formed by the eruption of seamounts that spill lava and create oceanic islands. Tiny corals then cling to these islands to create the exoskeleton of the reefs. With a thriving biodiversity of whales, sharks, dolphins, turtles, and fish, the Saba Bank National Park was named a national park in 2010.
Located at the eastern end of a horseshoe-shaped seamount, the Third Encounter has a maximum depth of 110 feet and is a short excursion to the mysterious Eye of the Needle. Rising to 90 feet below the surface, the pinnacle is home to Caribbean reef sharks, nurse sharks, manta rays, various schools of fish, and a friendly Nassau grouper named Charlie.
Saba's famous hot sands and dramatic overhangs can be found at Babylon, where hawksbill turtles and nurse sharks glide gracefully alongside lava flows and sand chutes. A little farther south, the Hot Springs highlight the island's active volcanic origins with an array of marine life and coral-encrusted boulders. The Crispeen Trail takes hikers through Saba's secondary rainforest. Photograph by frans lemmens / Alamy Stock Photo Where to go hiking
Solitude can be found across the island of Saba. Waking up to the gentle hum of hundreds of tree frogs daily. Untouched nature at every turn. With its winding streets and mass of greenery, strolling around Saba feels like a hike in and of itself, but there are also a slew of well-maintained hiking trails around the island.
The view atop Mount Scenery is breathtaking, with wispy cloud coverage and glimpses of distant civilization, but there are also 20 other well-kept hiking trails for every level of hiker. Starting at the same location in Windwardside as the Mount Scenery hike, the Crispeen Trail passes through Saba's secondary rainforest. You'll spot numerous bird species, insects, and vibrant flora.
(Why Puerto Rico should be your next food destination)
Challenge your balance along the Ladder Trail—about 800 steps along the coast, this route once served as the main route for transporting goods. Carved into the rock, the steep climb offers sweeping views of the ocean and is a humbling experience.
Tranquil pools and roaring waves, the Tidepools Trail is a circus for the senses. The easy trail takes around 25-minutes one way along the shoreline, and is a special way to observe old lava flows and vibrant ecosystems. Where to go snorkeling
The untouched seas and volcanic remnants draw in an abundance of marine life to Saba's surrounding reefs. Primarily an island for divers, snorkelers are often ushered toward the shallower reefs (Torrens Point, Tent Reef, and Hole in the Corner) for safety.
The Saba Marine Park contains more than 30 dive sites and a few snorkeling sites that are easy to reach. The shallow waters of Wells Bay are alive with a variety of juvenile species and interesting underwater structures. It's actually one of the only places on the island where you can snorkel directly from the shore thanks to its wandering beach that comes and goes, depending on the swell. Another popular snorkel site sits at the northern end of Wells Bay. The protected waters and clear visibility of Torrens Point make great conditions for a shallow dive or more experienced snorkel, with depths ranging from five-to-30 feet.
A more common option for visitors is to take a boat tour out to some of the snorkeling sites, with the help of a guide. Sea Saba will ferry guests from the harbor to locations such as Well's Bay/Torrens Point, Cove Bay, and Ladder Bay.
(Liquid sunshine: everything you should know about Caribbean rum) Hayley Domin is a British travel journalist and marketing manager in the hospitality industry. A solo travel advocate and founder of Hayley on Hiatus, she shares destination guides and travel tips to inspire independent exploration. Her work has been featured in Condé Nast Traveler, National Geographic, Business Insider, AFAR, the New Zealand Herald, and more.
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National Geographic
3 days ago
- National Geographic
Looking for adventure? This untamed island is the Caribbean's best-kept secret
Located 28 miles from St. Maarten, the five-square-mile island of Saba isn't the first place that springs to mind when it comes to adventure travel. Draped in wild greenery from every angle, this volcanic island looks almost vacant from afar. With no traffic lights, no high-rises, no beaches, and no crowds, it remains relatively under the radar as one of the smallest inhabited islands in the Caribbean. However, that same remoteness is exactly what once made Saba both uninviting and intriguing. In 1493, the island caught the eye of Christopher Columbus, who chose not to stop there due to its craggy coast. Ironically, what deterred explorers later drew in outlaws: The island eventually became a favorite hiding place for pirates and smugglers, who found refuge in its steep cliffs and secluded coves. Climb Mount Scenery Seen from both the land and the sea, the dormant volcano of Mount Scenery is the pinnacle of Saba and the highest point in the Kingdom of the Netherlands. Though there are several trails to follow, the most strenuous is the 1,064 stairs to the summit—certainly not for the faint of heart. Although much of the land remained unused until the 20th century, the gentler slopes were actively farmed up until the 1960s, when construction of the Mount Scenery Trail began. 'My task was carrying cement and water on my father's donkey. Four men and four donkeys. I started in 1969 and completed the steps to the very last in 1970,' recalls local and guide, James 'Crocodile' Johnson. Along the trail, wild flora and fauna hug the path on every side and Giant Taro, or 'elephant ears,' act as shelter from tropical downpours. Near the summit, two narrow paths lead hikers into the heart of the cloud forest, where a cool-mist is welcomed and the area is dense with mahogany trees. There are more than 30 protected diving sites around Saba. Photograph by / Alamy Stock Photo (Top) (Left) and Photograph by D. Holden Bailey / Alamy Stock Photo (Bottom) (Right) Visit the top dive sites The peak of an extinct volcano in the northern Lesser Antilles, Saba is surrounded by sea cliffs and bays which lead to spectacular dive sites. The island is particularly renowned for its pinnacles and seamounts (underwater volcanoes) that rise to within 85 feet of the surface. Here, there's more than 30 protected dive sites just minutes from the harbor and it's also home to the Atlantic Ocean's largest submerged atoll. (This tiny island is the best place to dive in the Caribbean) The ring-shaped reefs are formed by the eruption of seamounts that spill lava and create oceanic islands. Tiny corals then cling to these islands to create the exoskeleton of the reefs. With a thriving biodiversity of whales, sharks, dolphins, turtles, and fish, the Saba Bank National Park was named a national park in 2010. Located at the eastern end of a horseshoe-shaped seamount, the Third Encounter has a maximum depth of 110 feet and is a short excursion to the mysterious Eye of the Needle. Rising to 90 feet below the surface, the pinnacle is home to Caribbean reef sharks, nurse sharks, manta rays, various schools of fish, and a friendly Nassau grouper named Charlie. Saba's famous hot sands and dramatic overhangs can be found at Babylon, where hawksbill turtles and nurse sharks glide gracefully alongside lava flows and sand chutes. A little farther south, the Hot Springs highlight the island's active volcanic origins with an array of marine life and coral-encrusted boulders. The Crispeen Trail takes hikers through Saba's secondary rainforest. Photograph by frans lemmens / Alamy Stock Photo Where to go hiking Solitude can be found across the island of Saba. Waking up to the gentle hum of hundreds of tree frogs daily. Untouched nature at every turn. With its winding streets and mass of greenery, strolling around Saba feels like a hike in and of itself, but there are also a slew of well-maintained hiking trails around the island. The view atop Mount Scenery is breathtaking, with wispy cloud coverage and glimpses of distant civilization, but there are also 20 other well-kept hiking trails for every level of hiker. Starting at the same location in Windwardside as the Mount Scenery hike, the Crispeen Trail passes through Saba's secondary rainforest. You'll spot numerous bird species, insects, and vibrant flora. (Why Puerto Rico should be your next food destination) Challenge your balance along the Ladder Trail—about 800 steps along the coast, this route once served as the main route for transporting goods. Carved into the rock, the steep climb offers sweeping views of the ocean and is a humbling experience. Tranquil pools and roaring waves, the Tidepools Trail is a circus for the senses. The easy trail takes around 25-minutes one way along the shoreline, and is a special way to observe old lava flows and vibrant ecosystems. Where to go snorkeling The untouched seas and volcanic remnants draw in an abundance of marine life to Saba's surrounding reefs. Primarily an island for divers, snorkelers are often ushered toward the shallower reefs (Torrens Point, Tent Reef, and Hole in the Corner) for safety. The Saba Marine Park contains more than 30 dive sites and a few snorkeling sites that are easy to reach. The shallow waters of Wells Bay are alive with a variety of juvenile species and interesting underwater structures. It's actually one of the only places on the island where you can snorkel directly from the shore thanks to its wandering beach that comes and goes, depending on the swell. Another popular snorkel site sits at the northern end of Wells Bay. The protected waters and clear visibility of Torrens Point make great conditions for a shallow dive or more experienced snorkel, with depths ranging from five-to-30 feet. A more common option for visitors is to take a boat tour out to some of the snorkeling sites, with the help of a guide. Sea Saba will ferry guests from the harbor to locations such as Well's Bay/Torrens Point, Cove Bay, and Ladder Bay. (Liquid sunshine: everything you should know about Caribbean rum) Hayley Domin is a British travel journalist and marketing manager in the hospitality industry. A solo travel advocate and founder of Hayley on Hiatus, she shares destination guides and travel tips to inspire independent exploration. Her work has been featured in Condé Nast Traveler, National Geographic, Business Insider, AFAR, the New Zealand Herald, and more.
National Geographic
06-07-2025
- National Geographic
Why the Albanian Riviera is perfect for a road trip
This article was produced by National Geographic Traveller (UK). Running down the country's southwestern flank, from the city of Vlorë in the north to the village of Ksamil, the Albanian Riviera has been proclaimed the Maldives of Europe. It's true that countless white-sand beaches dot a coastline of dazzling blue waters, from busy stretches backed by modern resorts to secluded coves. But the Riviera is about more than just the sea; there are traditional villages clinging to hillsides covered by centuries-old olive groves, and ancient ruins alongside remnants of the country's communist past. Reaching the area is now easier than ever thanks to an increasing number of direct flights connecting the UK with Albania's capital, Tirana, a two-hour drive from Vlorë. You can then head south along the SH8, the Riviera's main coastal road, keeping the glistening Ionian Sea in your peripheral vision almost all the way. The region's highlights can be explored in a weekend, but stop for longer to discover more of its archaeological treasures and while away unhurried afternoons lounging on its lesser-known beaches. The shallow waters of Lake Butrint are ideal for harvesting mussels. Photograph by Alamy, Witold Skrypczak Day 1: History & hillside hideaways Morning: Start in Vlorë, Albania's third-largest city and the birthplace of the modern nation. In Flag's Square, the Independence Monument stands by the spot where the Albanian flag was first raised in 1912, marking the end of centuries of Ottoman rule. To learn more, head down Boulevard Ismail Qemali, named after Albania's first prime minister, to the National Museum of Independence, which traces the key events and players behind the country's self-rule. Then, drive five miles south along the waterfront, past the point at which the seas shift from Adriatic to Ionian, for lunch at Qendra e Peshkimit in the village of Radhimë. Select from the fresh catch displayed on the front-of-house market stall, and enjoy it overlooking the small harbour. Afternoon: Walk off your lunch in Llogara National Park, an hour's drive south of Vlorë. The Caesar's Pass trail starts outside Hotel Sofo Llogara and follows the route Julius Caesar is said to have taken in pursuit of Pompey, a Roman general and Caesar's bitter rival. The half-hour climb snakes through pine forest, culminating at a platform with views over the Bay of Vlorë. The road out of the mountains offers the first sight of the beaches, but resist their temptation and carry on to the bay of Porto Palermo. A fortress, built in 1804 by Ottoman ruler Ali Pasha, guards the entrance to the bay's natural harbour. Tours take in passageways and gloomy chambers, including a frighteningly dark dungeon. Evening: Continue heading south for a stroll along the lamp-lit promenade between the bright bars and pebbled beach of Qeparo Fushë village. Sunset Boulevard Cocktail bar mixes exceptional mojitos with local limes and is a great spot in which to watch the sun set beyond the Greek island of Corfu, which lies just west of the Albanian coast. A short drive into the hills leads to the village of Qeparo Fshat, which presents a more traditional way of life. After the fall of communism, it shrunk, but its heart remains intact. At Ida & Xhorxhi Restaurant, Ida Thanasi knocks out whatever's fresh and seasonal for diners to eat on the vine-covered verandah, while husband Xhorxhi serves shots of raki out front. From the city of Vlorë in the north to the village of Ksamil, the Albanian Riviera has been proclaimed the Maldives of Europe. Photograph by Getty Images, Nejc Gostincar Day 2: Take to the water Morning: After a breakfast of fluffy petulla (fried dough fritters) and Turkish coffee back at Ida & Xhorxhi Restaurant, wander the steep lanes of Qeparo Fshat. Many of the rundown houses are being rebuilt using materials reclaimed from other abandoned properties, to preserve the village's original aesthetic. Alleyways lead to panoramic viewpoints, overlooking either the coast or mountain valleys. Get back on the SH8, hugging the hillsides above the sea, before turning onto an unpaved track (immediately before the 'Lukove' road sign) leading to Buneci Beach. The gentle waters here are ideal for plunging into from the stone jetty, or exploring via kayak or standup paddleboard (rentals are available from the middle of the beach). Afternoon: Follow the track along Buneci as far south as it will go for a lunch of grilled sea bream under the straw roof of Taverna Nikolas. Then, divert away from the coast to the Blue Eye spring. It bubbles up from deep below the Bistricë river, creating an iris-like dark pool within the blue-green of the shallower surrounds. Once, only former dictator Enver Hoxha and senior Communist Party officials were permitted to visit, but it's now one of Albania's more popular sites (expect it to get busy in summer). A 20-minute walk from the car park leads to an observation deck giving the best views down into the abyss. Swimming in the Blue Eye isn't permitted, but you can brave the bracingly cold river just a short walk downstream. Evening: Return towards the coast, making for Lake Butrint. Its shallow, brackish waters are perfect for growing mussels, and farmer Soraldo Nebo runs boat tours to demonstrate how the shellfish has been harvested here for centuries. Afterwards, watch him prepare the molluscs — steamed in a garlic broth, or salted and grilled — and put some to the test, accompanied by a glass of Albanian white wine. See out the day a half-hour drive away on the private beach of Kep Merli resort, hidden away on the fringes of busy Ksamil village. Only a strict number of day visitors are allowed at the beach bar; book ahead to sip cocktails lounging on the softest sand of the Riviera. Over 2,500 years of history are layered over the ancient city of Butrint, a UNESCO World Heritage Site at the southern end of the Riviera Photograph by Getty Images, Master2 Three archaeological sites to visit Orikum On the road to Orikum, at the southern end of the Bay of Vlorë, there's little to suggest a historical site lies just ahead. Fragments of communist-era bunkers pile up at the roadside, repurposed as coastal defences; horses graze near abandoned barracks. But that's quickly forgotten as you turn into the park, once an important trading port, where successive empires have left their mark since the sixth century. Crumbling blocks of a Hellenistic harbour sink into the lagoon, backed by perimeter walls reinforced during the Byzantine era. Hillside paths link Roman houses to a Greek theatre. Even Julius Caesar was here in 48 BCE, overseeing the post during his civil war campaign against Pompey. Finiq Occupying a hilltop position close to the city of Sarandë, overlooking the surrounding valleys and plains, Finiq was a major centre of the ancient Greek kingdom of Epirus. It sees fewer visitors than other archaeological parks in the area, but it's blessed with natural beauty, with a blanket of wildflowers blooming yellow, pink, white and blue among the ancient blocks. A curving Hellenistic theatre sits within a fold of the hill, once perfectly positioned acoustically; today, it echoes the clang of goat bells across the valleys. Contrasting with the remnants of antiquity, a small complex of communist-era bunkers, connected by a network of tunnels, makes for an interesting subterranean scramble. Butrint Over 2,500 years of history are layered over this ancient city, a UNESCO World Heritage Site at the southern end of the Riviera. As is the case with Orikum, invading empires built on top of what had stood before, creating a mix of cultures and styles. Ancient Greek, Roman, Byzantine and Venetian buildings are all scattered within the enormous limestone perimeter walls, with more being unearthed every year. At its peak, as many as 16,000 people lived here, making use of Roman baths, a forum and a nymphaeum (structures dedicated to nymphs). Most impressive are the remains of the Roman aqueduct, which once extended far across Lake Butrint, bringing spring water from distant hills. How to do it , with a small pool, sleeps five in Qeparo Fshat. From £190. Local specialist Albanian Trip can provide bespoke itineraries and guided tours. This story was created with the support of Fly directly via RyanAir or WizzAir to Tirana from London, Edinburgh or Manchester, then it's a two-hour drive to Vlorë. Alternatively, fly to Corfu and catch a 45-minute ferry to Sarandë. Buses serve the SH8 down the Riviera, but renting a car or travelling with a private driver gives more flexibility. Villa Bougainvillier , with a small pool, sleeps five in Qeparo Fshat. From £ specialist Albanian Trip can provide bespoke itineraries and guided story was created with the support of Albanian Trip National Geographic Traveller (UK). To subscribe to National Geographic Traveller (UK) magazine click Published in the July/August 2025 issue of(UK).To subscribe to(UK) magazine click here . (Available in select countries only).
National Geographic
17-06-2025
- National Geographic
A Greek revival is underway along the Athenian Riviera
In its late 1960's heyday, there was arguably nowhere on Earth as discreetly glamorous as the Athenian Riviera. A nearly 40-mile stretch of sun-kissed coastline stretching from the port of Piraeus to the southernmost point of Attica at Cape Sounion, the Athenian Riviera has been a popular destination for decades. Celebrities, socialites, and locals seeking a mix of serenity and solitude would come to unwind, basking in the crystalline waters and palm-fringed beaches. Stories of a bikini-clad Brigitte Bardot seen dancing barefoot on a local beach in Glyfada, and the late-night serenades of Frank Sinatra from the terrace of his Four Seasons Astir Palace Hotel bungalow only added to the coastline's illustrious appeal. As the region's star power continued to rise throughout the 1970s and 80s, the area eventually earned the nickname the 'Côte d'Azur of Greece.' The Temple of Poseidon sits at the southernmost tip of the Athenian Riviera, and was built to honor the god of the sea. Photograph by Stefano Politi Markovina, Alamy The Athenian Riviera has been drawing luxury-minded travelers for decades. Photograph by Ioannis Mantas, Alamy 'It's long been a destination where authenticity meets sophistication,' says Chrysanthos Panas, an Athens-based author and co-owner of Island Club & Restaurant. 'It's this effortless blend of ancient history and contemporary Mediterranean lifestyle; you can start your day exploring the Acropolis and by afternoon, be swimming in crystal-clear waters or enjoying lunch by the sea.' Development across the region started to slow in the late 1990s and 2000s, and as travelers skipped Athens altogether in favor of neighboring islands like Santorini and Mykonos, the region lost its sheen. However, the Athenian Riviera has had a revival in recent years. 'Over the years, I've witnessed a truly remarkable transformation,' says Panas. 'Today, the Athens Riviera is a vibrant ecosystem—home to fine dining, five-star hotels, exclusive clubs, and thoughtfully curated cultural experience... But beyond the infrastructure, what truly matters is preserving the soul of the place: The light, the sea, and the timeless warmth of Greek hospitality.' (10 historic Greek wonders away from the islands) What to see and do Lake Vouliagmeni's mineral-rich waters are warmed by underground thermal springs. Photograph by Christos the Greek, Alamy The Temple of Poseidon: Dating back to the fifth century B.C.E., the Temple of Poseidon sits at the southernmost tip of the Athenian Riviera. Built to honor the god of the sea, a visit to the temple ruins is well worth the 45-minute scenic drive along the winding coastal road to get there. Lake Vouliagmeni: Open year-round, this gorgeous lake—its mineral-rich waters are warmed by underground thermal springs—is encircled by towering limestone cliffs. The lake requires a ticket to enter, so make sure you book your spot in advance if you can, otherwise plan on arriving early, especially in the summer. Seats in the main area are first come, first served, and there are also cabanas, and a restaurant and bar. Astir Beach: Astir Beach is known for its crystal clear water and high-end amenities. There are plenty of striped chairs and cozy cabanas available for a fee. There's also a high-end marina with multi-million-dollar yachts. Vouliagmeni Beach: One of the region's most popular local beaches, Vouliagmeni Beach is where the locals and in-the-know visitors go. Lounge chairs and straw-covered beach chairs line the beachfront, and there are plenty of beach bars and local eateries to grab a light bite, as well. Stavros Niarchos Foundation Cultural Center: A cultural and architectural treasure, Renzo Piano's Stavros Niarchos Foundation Cultural Center is a mecca of environmental and sustainable stewardship. You can spend a day roaming the beautiful grounds, attend a show, and explore the top-floor lighthouse that boasts some of the best views in town. Island exploration: The Saronic Gulf islands are an easy day trip by ferry from Athens. The most cost-effective way to get there is via a fast ferry from Piraeus where you can pop over to nearby Aegina or the charming island of Poros for lunch and still make it back to Athens in time for dinner. You can also opt to take a day cruise, which makes stops at three local islands and includes lunch. Ferry schedules tend to change daily depending on the weather and the season, so be sure to check the ferry schedule and plan accordingly. Where to eat and drink Taverna 37: There's nothing more romantic than dining seaside by candlelight, which is exactly what you'll find at Taverna 37. This charming restaurant serves some of the best mezze's and locally sourced seafood in town. Barbarossa: One of the buzziest restaurants to see and be seen on the Athenian Riviera right now, Barbarossa has a Mediterranean menu that shines a spotlight on seafood. The lobster and crab linguini and the banoffee pie are not to be missed. Island Club & Restaurant: Beloved by celebrities, socialites, and influencers, Island Club & Restaurant has been the go-to dinner and party spot for more than 30 years. And it hasn't lost its touch. Weekends are a great time to dance to world-known DJ's or enjoy dinner overlooking the craggy coastline. Makris Athens: Michelin-starred Makris Athens is housed in a historical building at the foot of the Parthenon, and is one meal you don't want to miss in Athens. With ingredients sourced from chef Petros Dimas' farm in Corinth, the menu draws heavily on traditional Greek dishes served with an elevated twist inspired by the region. Be sure to book a table on the outside patio for incredible views overlooking the ancient Acropolis. Zaxos Grill: You can't go to Greece and not eat your body weight in spanakopita and souvlaki, and in the heart of Vouliagmeni, Zaxos Grill is open for lunch and dinner and is a requisite spot to do just that. It's no frills, and no reservations, but the portions are generous, the fries are perfectly salted, and the vibes are as laid back and authentic as it gets. Papaioannou Restaurant: As fine dining seafood restaurants go, you can't do much better than Papaioannou Restaurant. Pairing some of the Riviera's best views with local seafood and a curated wine list prominently featuring crisp Greek wines, book your reservation at sunset for a memorable meal you won't soon forget. (How to spend the perfect day in Athens, from historic walks to modern art) Where to shop Ioannou Metaxa Street: The main thoroughfare in the leafy residential neighborhood of Glyfada, Ioannou Metaxa Street is lined with Greek designer boutiques and international brands, charming cafes, and restaurants. Don't be afraid to veer off and explore the side streets where plenty of hidden gems abound. The Naxos Apothecary: A short stroll from Syntagma Square in Athens, The Naxos Apothecary is an experiential boutique and a great place to pick up locally made homeopathic bath and body products and fragrances. The products have made their way into local hotels, including 91 Athens Riviera, but it's worth a visit to the beautifully curated, multi-level store. Where to stay Four Seasons Astir Palace Hotel Athens: Nestled along a pine-covered peninsula overlooking the glittering Aegean Sea, Four Seasons Astir Palace Hotel Athens has served as the crown jewel of the Athenian Riviera ever since it first opened at the Astir Palace in 1961. Highlights among the eight restaurants and bars include Italian trattoria-style restaurant at Mercato, Michelin-starred Pelagos, and traditional Greek seafood and mezzes at Taverna 37. 91 Athens Riviera: If you're seeking luxury meets summer camp, 91 Athens Riviera opened 28 luxury tents called 'luxents' in 2024. The hotel's on-site restaurant, Barbarossa, is extremely popular, as well. Michelle Gross is a Beaufort, SC-based travel journalist and photographer covering the cross-section of sustainable and ethical travel. Passionate about telling stories about interesting people and places around the world, follow her adventures on Instagram.
