South Evia`s innumerable beaches are without a doubt among the best in Greece. They combine crystal clear waters with amazing clarity, endless blue and deep green. Several are small, hidden coves found at the end of dramatic ravines, adding to their remoteness and exotic feel.
Selecting the best ones wasn’t an easy task with so many beaches to choose from. Don`t forget to take your necessary beach equipment (sun umbrella, water etc) with you, cause most of the beaches are unorganized.
For those seeking adventure, you can hike to the Dragon Houses (Drakospita) or the Gate of Armenon—two of Styra’s nearby most fascinating historical sites. You can enjoy this hike either on your own or with a guide, depending on your preference. Other great hiking destinations include the Platanistos Waterfall and the Dimosari Gorge, both offering beautiful natural scenery and unique experiences.
The Dragon Houses are prehistoric megalithic structures, unique in the Mediterranean, built entirely from massive stone blocks without any binding material. Some believe they were temples dedicated to Hercules, the patron of quarry workers. Along the way, you’ll follow an ancient carved stone path once used to transport boulders from the quarries to the port of Styra.
The Gate of Armenon, located on Mount Kliosi above Styra, is another impressive monument. Built with massive Cyclopean stones, it stands as a symbol of the region’s long history. Nearby, you can still see remnants of ancient walls and later fortifications, including a castle used by the Catalans, Venetians, and Ottomans over the centuries.
This journey offers a unique opportunity to step back in time, explore remarkable ancient structures, and experience the powerful energy of the Evian landscape.
The olive harvest in Greece dates back to antiquity and takes place in early November, on mild sunny days when conditions are ideal. If you have a reservation during this period, you are warmly invited to join this unique celebration—just ask, and if the timing is right, you could be fortunate enough to take part while the harvest is still in progress.
At “The House of Prince,” guests are welcome to experience the olive harvest firsthand. Pick olives using traditional methods, help bring them to the olive press, and discover the art of producing pure extra virgin olive oil as the golden oil flows and fills the air with its aroma. In return, you may take home fresh olive oil or even your own personalized bottles.
This is more than a visit—it is an immersive experience rooted in ancient tradition. The harvest concludes with a festive gathering, where abundant local olive oil is used to prepare a memorable meal shared by all who took part.
Grape picking is one of the most enjoyable collective agricultural activities and takes place from early September until mid-October, depending on the weather. If you have a reservation during this period, you are warmly welcome to join this unique celebration—just ask, and if the timing is right, you could be fortunate enough to participate, since the harvest may still be in progress. All activities associated with grapes are a true festivity, accompanied by songs, laughter, and a joyful atmosphere that continues through the pressing of the grapes, ending when the barrels are filled with grape must—the reward of a whole year’s work in the vineyards.
The grape residue is then left to ferment, and in October it is transferred to copper stills for distillation, producing the famous tsipouro—a traditional spirit considered a true “remedy” for both body and soul.
COOKING MEAL EXPERIENCE
At “The House of Prince,” you can enjoy a truly hands-on culinary experience. Bake bread and traditional pita (savory pies with fresh vegetables and local cheese) in a wood-fired oven, along with delicious lamb flavored with rosemary and lemon. Of course, the famous local olive oil is always present on the table. Guests are welcome to pick fresh fruits, aromatic herbs, and organic vegetables from the garden, and even take part in preparing authentic Greek dishes. The experience ends with a memorable meal made from fresh, high-quality ingredients, accompanied by fine local wine.
Simply choose your menu and leave the rest to us—you only cover the cost of the ingredients and the chef’s fee.
Greek cuisine stands out for its simplicity, fresh ingredients, balanced approach to nutrition, and the joy of sharing meals in a warm, welcoming atmosphere. While staying in Styra, you’ll discover unique and delightful flavors that truly capture the essence of Greece.Although surrounded by the sea, southern Evia is known for its high-quality locally raised meat, especially from the fertile areas around Mount Ochi. Popular dishes include brizola (steak) and paidakia (lamb chops). The region also produces excellent cheeses such as touloumotyri (similar to feta), anthotyro, and graviera.
Local specialties also include kourkoubinia (or gkogkilies), small twisted pieces of dough sautéed in goat butter or olive oil and topped with cheese. The area is also known for its organic aromatic honey, used in desserts like walnut pie and ravani (a syrup-soaked cake), as well as the unique halva made with sweet myzithra cheese.




