Spetses Greece

August 18, 1:55 PMSanta Barbara Cultural Travel ExaminerRachel de Carlos

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Water taxis in Dapia, Spetses harbor.  Photo copyright Rachel de Carlos 2009

The port and square of Dapia still has cannons where the fortification once was.  Where the little water taxis now stand, ship's captains once gathered during the Revolution in 1821.  The architecture on Spetses is beautiful, and a source of pride for the residents, as tourists openly admire the view as they approach the small harbor.  Most of the island inhabitants live and work here in the family owned tavernas, cafes, tourist shops, and small hotels.  Around 4,000 people live on the island, which is one of the few places in Greece that has no traffic.  Motor vehicles aren't allowed on the island, except for a couple special exceptions.  The island is small, so people walk, use scooters or ride bicycles. 

Agios Mamas beach in the center of town.  Photo copyright Rachel de Carlos 2009

For most islanders, the sea is their livelihood and it's where they spend their leisure time.  Spetses has beaches with soft sand or multicolored pebbles, such as the one pictured.  During the summer months, extended families can be found having picnics, playing paddle ball, and cooling themselves in the warm waters of the Saronic Gulf.  It's traditional for the grandparents to raise the grandchildren, so a common sight is very old women chasing after barefoot children when it's time to eat. 

Neoclassical home in Spetses.  Photo copyright Rachel de Carlos 2009

Spetses has many neoclassical houses which are painted in bright colors rather than the whitewash that most people associate with Greek islands.  The island has many pine trees, lush foliage and bright fuchsia bougainvillea lining narrow and winding stone-paved walks.  

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