Nestled in a secluded location between the towns of Edipsos and Limni on the northern shores of Evia Island, Ilia is a quaint fishing village that offers a serene escape from the hustle and bustle of modern life. With a population of just a few hundred residents, this charming locale is cradled by crystal-clear waters and lush, steep mountains, making it an ideal destination for a relaxed holiday.
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How to Get to Ilia
By car, take the ferry to Edipsos from Arkitsa on the mainland, then drive about 10 kilometers south along the coastal road to Ilia. Check out the ferry schedule here.
Alternatively, you can drive through Evia, following the longer but more scenic inland route via Chalkida. Though slower, this journey allows you to explore Evia’s diverse landscape before reaching Ilia.
If you haven’t got a car already, you can compare some of the best rental deals here.
Public transportation options involve a combination of bus and taxi. You can take a KTEL bus from Athens Liosion Station (location) to Edipsos, then take a taxi for the final stretch to Ilia. Check the bus company’s official site for updated routes.
Where to Stay in Ilia
While Ilia is a small village, it offers several accommodation options to ensure a comfortable stay:
- Ilia Mare Hotel: A beachfront hotel offering stunning sea views and warm hospitality.
- Pharos Rooms: A cozy accommodation option with easy access to the beach and local tavernas.
- Vaggelio Rooms: A budget-friendly option with simple yet comfortable rooms.
- Aggelike Tsame: A charming stay with a homely atmosphere, perfect for a peaceful retreat.
Explore more options in the surrounding area and beyond using the convenient map below:
Stay22 is a handy tool that lets you search for and compare stays and experiences across multiple platforms on the same neat, interactive map. Hover over the listings to see the details. Click on the top-right settings icon to adjust your preferences; switch between hotels, experiences, or restaurants; and activate clever map overlays displaying information like transit lines or concentrations of sights. Click on the Show List button for the listings to appear in a list format. Booking via this map, I will be earning a small cut of the platform's profit without you being charged any extra penny. You will be thus greatly helping me to maintain and keep enriching this website. Thanks!
What to Do in Ilia
Ilia may be small, but it boasts a variety of activities that cater to those seeking both relaxation and adventure.
Enjoy the Beach
The village’s expansive beach features a mix of pebbles and sand, leading into heavenly-colored, clear waters. Seafront properties are situated just about 10 meters from the sea, separated by a narrow road. As there are no deck chairs or parasols available, it’s advisable to bring your own beach gear to fully enjoy the tranquil shoreline.
Experience the Hot Spring
At the northeastern end of the beach, you’ll discover a natural hot spring emerging from a uniquely reddish-hued rock, contrasting beautifully with the surrounding blues and greens. While there’s no pool for bathing, you can enjoy a hot shower under the spring water, which flows at a temperature of around 50°C.
Take a Fishing Tour
Engage with the local fishing community by arranging a fishing tour. By asking around the fishing port, friendly fishermen are often willing to take you out on their boats, offering insights into traditional fishing techniques and a glimpse into their daily lives.
Hike to Dafnokouki Waterfall
For nature enthusiasts, a hike to the Dafnokouki waterfalls is a must. This pair of waterfalls includes a lower cascade with a deep pool suitable for swimming and a taller upper fall. The trail offers a refreshing adventure amidst the island’s lush landscapes. (location)
Visit Saint George Monastery
Approximately 9 kilometers from the beach, at an altitude of 390 meters, lies the Saint George Monastery, a convent believed to have been founded in 1670, though local lore suggests it may be older. During the Ottoman period, the monastery was destroyed three times. Today, it houses relics of Saints George, Marina, Mamas, and Kyriaki, offering a glimpse into the region’s rich religious history. (location)
Explore the Monastery of Saint Irene Chrysovalantou
East of Ilia along the coast, this convent comprises the main church dedicated to Saint Irene and two internal chapels honoring Saint Onouphrios the hermit. Visitors can admire Byzantine frescoes and, within the monastery’s olive grove, find the renovated old church of Archangel Michael, considered the area’s patron saint. (location)
Discover the Oracle of Apollo Selinuntius
Near the present-day village of Rovies, archaeologists have uncovered evidence of an ancient oracle, believed to be the one mentioned by Strabo. This site is associated with the lost town of Orobiae. (location)
Hike to the Summit of Mount Telethrio
For adventure seekers, a hike to the top of Mount Telethrion offers breathtaking panoramic views of northern Evia and the surrounding sea. Rising to an altitude of approximately 970 meters, this mountain is covered in lush forests of oak, chestnut, and pine, providing a refreshing escape into nature. The trail begins near Ilia and winds through scenic landscapes, with opportunities to spot local wildlife and enjoy the serenity of the untouched wilderness. At the summit, you’ll be rewarded with stunning vistas stretching as far as the Sporades Islands on clear days. Be sure to bring sturdy hiking shoes, water, and a camera to capture the incredible views!
Where to Eat in Ilia
Ilia’s culinary scene is a delightful exploration of local flavors. Here are some notable establishments:
- Taverna O Aggelos – A traditional Greek taverna serving fresh seafood and classic homemade dishes in a cozy, welcoming atmosphere.
- Tavern Christos & Maria – Known for its delicious grilled meats, meze plates, and warm hospitality, this taverna is a great spot for an authentic Greek meal.
- Fish Tavern Spanos – A must-visit for seafood lovers, this taverna specializes in fresh fish and traditional Greek seafood dishes right by the water.
- Myrovolos Café-Snack Bar – A charming café offering a selection of coffee, snacks, and light meals, perfect for a relaxed break by the sea.
History of Ilia
The name “Ilia” is believed to derive from the ancient Greek god Apollo, deity of the sun and light, who was worshipped in a temple thought to have existed at the site of the current Saint George Monastery. The village began to develop in its present location during the 1970s, though earlier settlements existed higher up on Mount Telethrio, known as “Upper Ilia.” Remnants of these older stone and tile-roofed structures can still be found today.
Historically, the area was traversed by the “Iliorema” stream, originating from Mount Valantio. In times of heavy rainfall, this stream would swell significantly, contrasting with its more modest flow today. The need for easier access to the broader North Evia region led residents to gradually relocate from the mountainous Upper Ilia to the coastal areas, leaving behind what is now a deserted village that holds memories for the older generations.
Until the 1970s, transportation to and from Ilia was primarily by sea, using traditional boats, as there were no roads connecting the village to the surrounding areas. Mules and donkeys were the primary means of transport along the rough mountain paths that linked Ilia to other settlements. Over time, the need for better accessibility led to the construction of proper roads, allowing for easier movement of people and goods.
The presence of natural hot springs in Ilia has been known for centuries. The current thermal spring, located at the northeastern edge of the beach, was officially tapped in the late 1980s, allowing visitors to experience its healing waters. Before this, locals and visitors would dig small pools in the pebbles to enjoy the thermal waters as they bubbled up from beneath the earth.
Places to Visit nearby
- Edipsos (8 km) – Famous for its thermal springs, Edipsos is one of Greece’s most well-known spa towns, attracting visitors for its healing waters and vibrant seaside promenade.
- Limni (15 km) – A picturesque coastal town with charming neoclassical houses, a scenic harbor, and excellent seafood tavernas. Limni is also home to the historic Galataki Monastery.
- Rovies (20 km) – A charming seaside village known for its olive groves and the remnants of a medieval Venetian tower. Nearby, you’ll also find the site of the ancient Oracle of Apollo Selinuntius.
- Prokopi (40 km) – Home to the famous Church of Saint John the Russian, a significant religious site that draws pilgrims from all over Greece. The lush landscape of the area also makes it great for nature walks.
- Gialtra (18 km) – A quiet coastal village offering breathtaking views of the Northern Euboean Gulf, natural thermal springs, and a relaxing seaside atmosphere.
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Photos
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