If the idea of a spa treatment sounds appealing, then why not opt for Athens’ most natural of spas, cleverly disguised as a gorgeous lake. Located some 24km from downtown Athens on the Athenian Riviera, Lake Vouliagmeni is a natural wonder (protected under the Natura 2000 network) that assumed its present form after an underwater thermal spring caused the roof of an enormous cave to come tumbling down. Its therapeutic emerald waters, with their balmy water temperature (a steady 22-29°C), its Garra rufa fish (which exfoliate your skin), its mysterious labyrinthine underwater cave system, and the sheer beauty of the place attract bathers all year round.

The facilities include the all-day bar-restaurant Nero (“water” in Greek), which is particularly enchanting in the evening when the cliffs surrounding the lake are illuminated. Its menu features comfort food dishes, platters, as well as fine dining options, all of which can be accompanied by some fine Greek wines.

This text was first published as part of “Beat the Heat”, an article published in Greece Is Athens, Summer 2019 Edition.