Nestled on the northwestern tip of Evia, Gialtra is a charming cluster of three settlements on the Lichada Peninsula, just across the bay from Edipsos. Perched at the foot of Mount Lichas, Gialtra consists of the main village of Gialtra, the spa retreat of Loutra Gialtron, and the fishing hamlet of Agios Georgios Gialtron, home to the tranquil Mylos Beach. With a population of just over 500, this unspoiled corner of Evia is a peaceful alternative to its busier neighbor, Edipsos. Whether you’re looking for therapeutic hot springs, scenic mountain hikes, or serene beaches, Gialtra offers a perfect escape.
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How to Get to Gialtra
By Car
Take the ferry to Edipsos from Arkitsa on the mainland and then drive approximately 10 kilometers west to Gialtra. This route allows you to enjoy beautiful coastal views as you approach the Lichada Peninsula. Check out the ferry schedule here.
Alternatively, you can drive through Evia, taking the longer but equally picturesque inland route via Chalkida. This drive, while slower, offers a chance to explore Evia’s rich landscape before arriving at Gialtra.
If you haven’t got a car already, you can compare some of the best rental deals here.
Public transportation options require a combination of bus and taxi. You can take a KTEL bus from Athens Liosion Station (location) to Edipsos and then take a taxi for the final stretch to Gialtra. Check the bus company’s official site for updated routes.
Where to Stay in Gialtra
Accommodation options are available primarily in Loutra Gialtron, offering a relaxed and comfortable stay:
- East & West Seaside Apartments – Beachfront apartments with stunning views and modern amenities.
- GreekSummer Edipsos – Cozy and well-equipped apartments near the thermal baths.
- Sianos Apartments – A budget-friendly option with traditional Greek hospitality.
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 Gialtra
Soak in the Thermal Baths of Loutra Gialtron
Less crowded than Edipsos, the hot springs of Loutra Gialtron offer a more private and relaxing experience. The waters here contain a unique mineral not found in Edipsos, making them an exceptional therapeutic retreat.
Explore the Upper Village of Gialtra
Wander through the traditional houses, enjoy breathtaking views of the Gulf of Edipsos, and visit the Church of Saint Nikolaos, known for its distinctive steeple.
Relax at Mylos Beach
Located in Agios Georgios Gialtron, Mylos Beach is a peaceful haven with calm, shallow waters, perfect for a quiet and secluded beach holiday.
Discover Other Stunning Beaches
Venture beyond Mylos to explore Monogai, Port Pefko, and Gregolimano, where you’ll find golden sands and crystal-clear waters. At Gregolimano Beach, you can also enjoy wakeboarding and other water sports.
Visit Vriniotis Winery
Sample locally produced wines and learn about the winemaking process at Vriniotis Winery, one of the region’s best-kept secrets for wine lovers. (location)
Hike Mount Lichas
Take advantage of the numerous hiking trails leading up Mount Lichas for stunning panoramic views of the Evian Gulf and the surrounding landscapes.
Where to Eat in Gialtra
For a taste of authentic Greek cuisine, consider these local dining spots:
- Taverna Aggeliki – A cozy seafood taverna offering fresh fish and traditional Greek dishes.
- Psarotaverna Aristea – A family-run seafood restaurant with a reputation for excellent grilled fish.
- Taverna Ta Dio Aderfia – Located in the upper village, this taverna serves traditional Greek dishes in a warm and welcoming setting.
- TUB Café – A perfect spot for coffee and light snacks while enjoying the local atmosphere.
History of Gialtra
Gialtra’s history dates back to ancient times, with archaeological evidence suggesting Athenian settlement during the Greco-Persian Wars of the 5th century BCE. The village’s location near natural hot springs made it a popular spot for Roman bathhouses, remnants of which can still be found today.
Due to frequent pirate and Ottoman raids, the settlement was later moved inland to its current location, offering better defense and a vantage point over the sea. Today, the village preserves its traditional charm, with stone-built houses from the 18th century, the historic Church of Saint Nikolaos (built in 1884), and a well-preserved village fountain dating back to 1904.
Places to Visit nearby
- Edipsos – Famous for its therapeutic hot springs and vibrant nightlife.
- Lichadonisia Islands – Often referred to as the “Greek Seychelles,” these tiny islets boast stunning turquoise waters and are accessible by boat.
- Agios Georgios Lichadas – A scenic fishing village known for fresh seafood and traditional Greek charm.
- Istiaia – A larger town with shopping and additional cultural attractions.
Videos
Photos
View (and if you want use) all my photographs from Gialtra, Loutra Gialtron, and Agios Georgios Gialtron in higher resolution.
