The jewel of Argosaronikos
Nestled among the jewels of the Argosaronikos archipelago, Spetses stands out as a beacon of elegance and charm. Renowned for its aristocratic allure, this small yet cosmopolitan island is a mere 3-hour ferry ride from Piraeus or a scenic 2.5-hour drive from Athens to Kosta.
Escape the hustle and bustle of city life and immerse yourself in the serene ambiance of Spetses, making it an ideal choice for a weekend getaway.
Despite its modest size and intimate community, Spetses boasts a vibrant calendar of events and activities, promising unforgettable moments during your vacation.
From cultural festivals to outdoor adventures, Spetses invites you to create magical memories against its picturesque backdrop.
Events
Every year in Spetses we organize a wide range of events. Discover the most popular and organize your next getaway on our cosmopolitan island.
Activities
Beyond the relaxed walks and the beaches, Spetses offers a range of activities to fill your holidays with unforgettable memories
History
During the period of 1821-1832, Spetses emerged as a pivotal player in the Greek Revolution. It proudly hoisted the flag of the Revolution on April 2nd and 3rd of 1821, marking the occasion with grand ceremonies and cannonades. The Spetses fleet, comprising commercial vessels manned by Spetsiot sailors, engaged in numerous naval battles such as Armatas, and participated in pivotal sieges, including those of Nafplion and Monemvasia. It was during this time that heroic figures like Laskarina Bouboulina, Andreas Miaoulis, Hatzigiannis Mexis, and Kosmas Barbatsis rose to prominence, etching their names in the annals of Hellenic history.
Following the conclusion of the Revolution and the establishment of the Greek state, Spetses experienced a decline in its economic significance, overshadowed by the burgeoning development of Athens. Its role as a commercial and maritime hub diminished, accompanied by a reduction in its population. However, at the dawn of the 20th century, the island underwent a transformative period marked by modernization, spurred by the visionary efforts of national benefactor Sotirios Anargyros. His initiatives revitalized the island, previously lacking significant vegetation, and transformed it into a favored retreat for Athenian society.
Anargyros's contributions included the acquisition of vast land tracts, the construction of the island's first aqueduct, and the iconic Poseidonio Hotel. In 1927, the Anargyrios and Korgialenios School of Spetses was established, further elevating the island's cultural landscape.
