Diving
If you’re a diving enthusiast, don’t miss the opportunity to explore the area’s impressive underwater world full of shipwrecks and hidden treasures.
- Pavlopetri
Dive into Pavlopetri to admire the well-planned submerged city, the oldest in the world. You don’t need to be experienced to enjoy it, nor any special equipment, as the ancient “treasure” lies at a depth of 2 to 4 meters. Dive into the clear waters of the area. Discover the underwater world and hidden treasures, like Pavlopetri, the oldest submerged settlement in the world.
- Ismail Hakki Shipwreck
At a depth of 3 to 12 meters in the bay of Agia Marina lies the sunken Turkish cargo ship “Kaptan Ismail Hakki” since 1978. It carried over 500 tons of iron ore and a car. Now “lying” on the sandy seabed of Agia Marina, it offers an exciting underwater exploration.
Fishing
Charter a boat to engage in your favorite hobby, fishing, or equip yourself with rods and lines to catch tasty fish and seafood from the shore. The last months of winter and early spring may tempt you to visit the area not only to taste fresh and delicious squid but also to participate in catching them.
Climbing
With four climbing routes and a breathtaking view of the Myrtoan Sea, the Zombolo Climbing Park is the ideal destination for you. Here, you can test your strength on routes that offer challenges and pleasure while enjoying the enchanting natural landscape. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced climber, the park offers unique opportunities for adventure and renewal; don’t miss it!
Excursions to the Picturesque Villages
Visit the picturesque villages of Vatika, such as Paradisi, with its lush greenery, and discover the traditional water mills standing tall, testifying to the area’s heritage. Climb to Agios Nikolaos Vion with its imposing church and verdant landscape to gaze at the sea towards Kythera. East of the peninsula, the beautiful village of Velanidia with its historic windmills awaits to convey its island aura with a view of Myrtoan. Enjoy your walk through the cobbled streets and the tranquility of the landscape.
Enjoy Authentic Hospitality with Traditional Cultural Events
Fill your days and nights with unique events featuring music, dance, and cultural pursuits in all the villages of Vatika. Experience authentic Greek entertainment at festivals, performances, exhibitions, stargazing nights, and celebrations, to which everyone is invited. The area’s cultural clubs ensure a rich program with traditional and contemporary music, dance, and plenty of food and drink, especially in summer. Choose from traditional festivals accompanying major religious holidays, ballet and modern dance performances, music nights, and traditional gatherings called “Antamoma”, an old custom of women cooking and offering food in the village square. Participate in pie contests and showcase your singing talent at karaoke nights. Reminisce about your childhood with traditional games revived on the streets and squares during the summer three-day festival “Kampitata” in Kambos Square. Joyful voices and laughter echo through the village’s neighborhoods as young and old compete for thrilling moments. Feel the summer vibes at the popular music night of Ostria, Electric Litany at Zombolo, with bands from the contemporary international scene. Watch theatrical performances and participate in sports events and chess tournaments. Revel in the carnival celebrations and events towards the end of winter and early spring. Come back again and again to not miss any of the exciting entertainment and recreation options Vatika residents lovingly and eagerly prepare each year.
Live Like a Local
Experience the daily aspects of life in Vatika, such as the olive harvest in September and squid fishing towards the end of winter. Experience the devout atmosphere of Holy Week and the Resurrection in the many small churches of Vatika where many Easter customs revive. Follow the pilgrims that go on foot on the path of Agia Irini church in early May.
Taste the Variety of Vatika’s Cuisine
Vatika’s cuisine is a true treasure. Enjoy local mouthwatering dishes in tavernas and restaurants. After diving in the sea, a glass of ouzo with the necessary accompanying appetizers, such as grilled octopus and squid, is the perfect appetizer before indulging in Vatika’s traditional flavors. If Vatika is known for something, that is its fresh fish. Enjoy fresh fish and seafood caught daily all year round, peaking in summer with a salad accompanied by wild greens. The famous Vatika onion “adorns” salads and is cooked with tasty local vegetables, meat, and local olive oil. Enjoy traditional “tsaïtia” – pies with cheese, dough, and herbs or “kaltsoúni” when filled with fresh greens. For dessert, choose “samousa,” a syrupy sweet with sesame and nuts resembling baklava, and the award-winning goat’s milk ice cream with orange and arborifolia. Pair with arborifolia liqueur and “melitokraso” (honey wine). Before you leave, stock up on handmade delicacies from local producers. The tastes and aromas of Vatika will accompany you and always remind you of this unforgettable escape to the land of wonders and unique experiences.