Around Loutraki: Heraion and the lake of Vouliagmeni
The area around Lake Vouliagmeni and Iraio is an area of great beauty that successfully combines antiquities, Mediterranean nature and modern civilization.
The ruins of the ancient temple dedicated to goddess Hera are all around and go further down to the sea. The lake (which is not just a lake because it joins the sea through a small canal) is surrounded by natural pine forest and is considered to be one of the most beautiful lagoons in Greece. to the west of the lake lies the cape of Heraion of Perachora or Melangavi, where one of the greatest beacons of the Corinthian is located. And from the gulf of Heraion you can admire the view of the southern coasts of Corinthia, with the mountains that stand out majestically in the landscape. If you are at this point in the afternoon, you can enjoy the most beautiful sunset of the Corinthian Gulf, just above the ancient harbor of Heraion.
As you approach the area from Loutraki and Perachora, you will meet the lake. With its waters much saltier than the open sea, they are considered particularly warm and allow swimming until late in the autumn. The most beautiful beach is on the west shore and is covered with fine white sand. On the perimeter of the lake you can find some taverns for food.
Five minutes away from there is the archaeological site and the hillside with the lighthouse. Leave your car on the big plateau before heading down to the ancient temple and beach. Just below there is a small bay with clear blue waters. There is a temple dating back to 700 BC. and is dedicated to Hera. Twice a year, the Corinthians from the very opposite coast came by ships for rituals and tributes to the goddess. The ruins of an ancient market are preserved near the temple, as Perachora in ancient times was a vital part of Corinthian land and economy.
In the 18th century, the church of Agios Nikolaos is built on the natural acropolis, east of the harbor, in the rhythm of the one-aisled basilica with a dome, whose middle niche is situated in a huge rock.
As for the edge of Cape Melagavi, there is an impressive old stone beacon built in 1897. The view is exciting. On the right, the Alkyonides are distinguished in the background and the view of the Corinthian coast is out of the best Greek postcards.
