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Souvala can be reached directly by ferry from Piraeus or it can easily be found by taking the coast road north and east from Aegina Town for about 10 km. Until about the 1950s it was simply a fishing village but over the last 50 years has grown in response to tourism in the area. However, unlike some other places Souvala retains the atmosphere and flavour of Greece.
Aegina's Second main port
Today you will find a crescent shaped harbour area with fishing boats moored and the second main port after Aegina Town. Indeed, there are several large ferries from and to Pireaus port which stop here. This means that many Athenians and people from the mainland come to Souvala which may explain why you will find a more genuine Greek experience here.
Summer holiday village
Souvala can be used as your base for a holiday since there are several hotels and private houses and apartments to rent. In the harbour area you will find a selection of tavernas and cafes which overlook the sea. There are also shops, a supermarket, and newsagents.
The town is especially popular in the high season with Greek visitors from Athens. Indeed, it is in the high season that the town bustles with a holiday atmosphere. Families and couples stroll along the 'paralia', which is the paved area along the harbour, to enjoy the setting sun. At night, you can see the lights of Attiki, Piraeus and the Athenian Coast.
Beaches & watersports
There is a small beach at Souvala and other places to bathe at the beaches close by (for example at Agii or Vagia). The Souvala’s coasts follow the configuration of northern morphology of the island: most of the beaches have sandy bottoms and a soft increase of depth. For the funs of the summer sports, the wind on the northern part of the island is ideal for windsurfing
Events
More recently an association of businesses in the area has been formed to promote the town. In August 2007 there was a very successful photo competition which was accompanied by live music after, dancing in the street and a great atmosphere. Look out for more events in 2008!
Souvala
The name of the town is derived from the man-made underground water tanks including those ancient cisterns found in the rocks near 'Therma'. These are the mineral water springs located to the eastern edge of the town and have been known since antiquity. The spa with its mineral laden waters is one of the best known in Europe. Its curative powers extend to the treatment of arthritis, rheumatism, skin and digestive problems. Unfortunately in recent years the spa has been closed but it is hoped to be opened again.
History
The town - earlier called Aegena - has existed as a settlement since before Byzantine times. During the 900 year period from 900 to 1800 AD Souvala dealt with most commercial traffic when the pirates forced the people inland to the hillside village of Paliochora. When Palaiochora was the capital of Aegina, it was Souvala that served all the sea traffic of the island. Souvala was for the first half of the 20th Century, the main port of Aegina exporting products such as grapes, sponges and carob.
Walking
Today Souvala is a good choice for a relaxing holiday in a traditional location or even for a day trip. When you are staying take the opportunity to make interesting walks through the small mountains of Agious Souvala or walk up to Palea Chora, visit <a href="../../main/whattosee/agiosnektarios.htm">Agios
Nektarios</a> or even continue walking to the temple of Afea. Feel the beauty of nature and enjoy the great panoramic views you will have while walking.
More information:
<a href="../../main/apartments/souvala.htm" target="_blank">Apartments & studios Souvala</a> <a href="../../main/hotels/souvala.htm" target="_blank">Hotels
Souvala</a> <a href="../../main/fooddrinks/souvala/yiannaros.htm">Food & drinks
Souvala</a><a href="../../photocontest_souvala_07/souvala_photocontest_2007.htm" target="_blank">Photo contest Souvala 2007</a><br>
If you have specific questions about the Souvala area please send an email to the president of the business club of Souvala, Petros Petritis - info@souvala.gr.
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