The Green Jewel of the Aegean: A Guide to Exploring Northern Evia

While most travelers head straight to the rocky, sun-bleached landscapes of the Cyclades, Greece's second-largest island holds a completely different ecosystem just a short drive from Athens. Northern Evia (Euboea) is a magnificent contradiction—an island destination that behaves like a rugged alpine mountain range. Blanketed in dense forests of pine, chestnut, and plane trees that spill directly onto the shores of the Aegean Sea and the Euboean Gulf, this region is an absolute haven for ecotourists, road-trippers, and travelers seeking an authentic, slow-paced Greek experience away from mass tourism.

Unmissable Stops in Northern Evia

• Edipsos and its Thermal Springs: Famed since antiquity and mentioned by Aristotle, Edipsos is one of the world's premier wellness destinations. Natural, mineral-rich thermal waters bubble up from the earth at temperatures up to 80°C, pouring from the rocks directly into the turquoise sea. You can sit on the public stone ledges where the hot springs meet the cool ocean waves for a completely free, natural hydrotherapy session.
• Limni Evias: This postcard-perfect fishing village clings to a steep hillside overlooking the calm Euboean Gulf. Built in a traditional amphitheater style with whitewashed houses and terracotta tiled roofs, Limni feels entirely like an authentic Aegean island town. Spend your afternoons walking its narrow alleys and eating fresh seafood at a waterfront taverna.
• Drachma-Era Waterfalls and Hiking Trails: Head inland to find the stunning Drymonas Waterfalls, nestled in a lush ecological park filled with rare plants and wooden bridges. For a more intense challenge, hike the trails winding up Mount Telethrio or explore the deep gorge of Nileas.

Searing Landscapes and Island Clusters

At the westernmost tip of Northern Evia lies Cape Kavos, the staging ground for one of Greece's best-kept secrets: the Lichadonisia island complex. Often dubbed the "Bahamas of Greece," this small cluster of volcanic islets features emerald waters, golden sandbars, and a thriving pod of wild monachus-monachus seals. You can easily catch a small daily taxi boat from the coastal town of Kavos to spend an afternoon lounging on these exotic, uninhabited beaches.

The Majestic Aegean Coast: Agia Anna and the Deep Blue East

While the western side of Northern Evia looks out over the calm, lake-like waters of the Euboean Gulf, crossing the rugged mountain spine brings you to the island's raw, dramatic eastern coast. Here, the land drops sharply into the open Aegean Sea, greeting travelers with endless horizons, rolling waves, and some of the longest continuous stretches of sand in Greece. The absolute crown jewel of this coastal stretch is Agia Anna Beach (Angali).

• Agia Anna (Angali Beach): Spanning nearly six uninterrupted kilometers, this sweeping bay features an incredible mix of golden sand and fine dark pebbles. What makes Agia Anna so special is its striking backdrop—dense, fragrant pine forests sweep right down the hillsides to touch the edge of the beach. The water here is famously crystal-clear and deepens quickly, offering a refreshing, true Aegean swimming experience.
• The Vibe & Accommodation: The beachfront area, known locally as Angali, strikes a perfect balance between comfort and untouched nature. The northern end is organized with family-friendly beach bars, traditional fish tavernas, and welcoming guesthouses. Meanwhile, the vast southern stretch remains entirely unorganized, offering endless space for travelers who want complete peace and isolation.
• Nearby Natural Wonders: Just a short drive north of the beach lies the breathtaking Gorge of Bolovinena, located near the traditional village of Prokopios. This rugged canyon features dramatic limestone walls and hidden freshwater pools, making it a fantastic morning hike before cooling off in the sea at Agia Anna.