Athens Holidays - While
you are visiting Athens, be sure to set some time aside to visit
Vouliagmeni. Vouliagmeni is located on the eastern edge of Athens,
which is about a half hour drive or 20km from Athens. This is where
many of the more affluent residents live so expect to see some lovely
traditional and modern architecture along the tidy beaches and
throughout the neighborhoods. Vouliagmeni is most famous however, for
its lake.
Athens Holidays - Lake
Vouliagmeni is a rare geological formation known as the “Sunken
Lake”. At one time, this was an underground cavern where water
flowed underground from Mount Hymettus. It is believed that the
cavern collapsed during the Middle Ages by a powerful earthquake. The
result is a beautiful freshwater lake than you probable noticed as
you were airborne making the final approach into Athens. The water is
warm year-round in the 24-26 degrees Celsius range because the water
mixes with underground hot springs rich in minerals, making this an
ideal year-round destination.
Don’t
start racing for you scuba gear quite yet, because Lake Vouliagmeni
has a dark side. The lake continues underground with a series of
caverns deep within Mount Hymettus that have defied both sonar
detection and underwater expeditions. In fact, there is one story
that continues to resurface about some scuba divers from a nearby US
Airbase. In the late sixties, these divers disappeared while
exploring the undersea caves. Thirty-five years later, their bodies
mysteriously surfaced. This is quite the paradox because Lake
vouliagmeni is more famous for its healing properties.
People
travel from around the world to visit Lake Vouliagmeni for its
reputed healing properties. Because the water is rich in minerals
from the hot springs, many people believe it aids in alleviating a
number of ailments including bone and muscle problems. The lake is
lined with umbrellas and beach chairs. People with disabilities have
easy access to the lake; equipment for assistance is available in
several locations. In the summer, therapeutic activities are
available such as hydrotherapy and physiotherapy.
Besides
Lake Vouliagmeni, there is plenty to see and experience. Across from
the lake is Vouliagmeni beach. Some consider it one of the best
beaches in the Athens area. People can sunbathe or participate in a
number of water sport activities. Plenty of eating establishments
will soothe the most sophisticated palate. Pamper yourself with a
luxury stay in a five star resort or any number of quality hotels
nearby where you can participate in a wide variety of resort
activities.
