
LICHADONISIA: PARADISE ON EARTH FOUND
Many people say that it’s a tiny version of the Seychelles, which is just 10 minutes away by boat from Mitsis Galini Wellness Spa & Resort in Kamena Vourla, known for its thermal springs, featuring one the largests wellness spa all over the world! A little group of islands to enjoy the sun, swim in crystal clear waters and relax in sandy coasts with numerous of seashells. A family of seals also live there and if you are lucky enough you may spot them. The best period to visit this hidden gem of Northern Evia is during spring when the olive groves and wildflowers are in full bloom.
Sights and activities in Lihadonisia
The Lihadonisia are of scientific interest, as the islets arose after parts of land were cut off from northern Evia due to volcanic activity. According to mythology, however, the island cluster arose from the pieces of the unfortunate Lychas, the slave that Hercules threw into the Malian Gulf after realizing that he had poisoned him with Deianeira’s tunic.
If you are wondering what else to do in Lihadonisia (besides enjoying the magical scenery), we suggest you visit:
- The old settlement of Manolia, where you will see some abandoned houses and the church of Agios Georgios Lihadonisia.
- The remains of the aqueduct in the Great Round, from the Roman era.
- The 9-meter stone lighthouse at the top of Megali Strogyli, surrounded by the ruins of a 12th century Byzantine monastery.
- The wreck of Pioneer I (German cement tanker bombed in 1943) west of Magnolia and Mikros Lichadonis, visible and without diving.
Lichades were formed after the huge earthquake of 426 B.C., when the land between them sank in the Euboean Sea. According to Greek mythology, their name comes from Lichas, the servant of Hercules who brought the poisoned shirt from Deianira to Hercules. Hercules hurled him to the sea and from his parts these small islands were formed. The islands are one of the suggested locations for the Battle of the Echinades (322 BC), which ended Athenian thalassocracy.
The 7 secret islands
The complex consists of seven islands and islets. The biggest of them is Manolia and is the only that had residents in the past. The other six are Strongyli, Mikri Strongyli, Steno, Vagia, Vorias and Limani. The biggest island, Manolia has a beautiful beach and is visited by many tourists in the summer. Strongyli is the second largest island and on top has a big lighthouse.