Enjoy the Therapeutic Waters of Lake Vouliagmeni
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If you’re looking to take a swim while visiting Athens you can always head to one of the many fine beaches on the Apollo Coast running south to Cape Sounion. But if you are looking for a unique experience, be sure to check out Lake Vouliagmeni on the Western coast of Attica.
Lake Vouliagmeni is a part saltwater, part spring water lake where people can swim year-round due to its desirable, steady temperature of 22-25 degrees C or 70-77 degrees F. The warm water is known for its therapeutic mineral qualities and healing properties and has been used for years to bring relief to arthritis sufferers. Just a short walk northward away from the coast, the enchanting lake is set dramatically against a huge jutting cliff just off the coast and flanked by a high rock face on one side and trees on the other. The source of the clear, warm water is still unknown.
The company “Lake Vouliagmeni Thermal Spas – Tourist Enterprises SA” commercialized the lake in 1992. They invite guests to enjoy the benefits of the thermal waters. Lake Vouliagmeni is a spa, recognized by the Greek National Tourist Organization (EOT) and included in the National List of “Greek Spas”. Its rich content of salts and minerals (sodium, potassium, lithium, ammonium, calcium, iron, chlorine, iodine and a small amount of radiation) provides a very strong therapeutic effect. The fish species Garra Rufa, or Doctor Fish, live in the waters of the lake and serve as your personal cosmetician while you enjoy the water. The small fish clean the skin from dead cells and remove the outer peel of the skin while performing a relaxing massage.
If you enjoy an active lifestyle, Lake Vouliagmeni offers plenty of options outside of swimming. Take a walk under the pine trees and among the impressive rocks. Participate in weekly exercise classes including yoga and Pilates. Hike up the Faskomilia cliff, which offers a magnificent view to the Gulf of Vouliagmeni, the Lake and nearby Varkiza.
Changing rooms and a café are located close to the lake. The Restaurant at Lake Vouliagmeni offers coffee, cocktails, unique Mediterranean dishes, desserts, and more. All dishes are prepared with fresh and carefully selected materials. It’s a perfect spot to enjoy the sunset while listening to relaxing music by the water.
Lake Vouliagmeni is a popular location to hold events including wedding and baptism receptions, business meetings, theme nights, and fashion shows. Children’s parties are also popular and take advantage of the playground made of materials that meet the strictest safety regulations. Lake Vouliagmeni can host up to 20 children along with their parents.
General Admission to the lake costs 9 euros on weekdays and 10 euros on weekends. Admission for children up to 12 years costs 6 euros. The lake is open to the public from 7AM to 8PM (07:00-20:00). The following bus lines bring you to the lake:
• 114 Glyfada – Kavouri – Vouliagmeni
• 115 Glyfada – Vouliagmeni – Kitsi
• 149 Glyfada – Vari – Varkiza
• E22 Elliniko Subway Station – Saronida
Categorized in: About Athens, Greece, Greek Travel Guide
This post was written by Greek Boston
