Recreation, Sightseeing & History SPETSES Υayaki Spetses Resort Accommodation Services Info Spetses, is considered an ideal island destination, very close to the capital Athens, for tourists, travelers, visitors of all ages as well as for digital nomads who can work anywhere on the island thanks to the integrated technological and communication systems. It is a considered a perfect holiday spot for hikers of long walks or rides as well as for water fans in search of secret swimming spots undercovered by pine trees. But also citizens of the world and cosmopolitan lovers with the desire for shopping in style, ranging from big brands to local designers or wishing to cocktail with a great view or a delicious modern dinner, love this small island. Archaeological traces of Pityoussa (ancient name of Spetses, related to the profusion of pine trees) date from the third millennium BC, yet the island is famous today for its glorious historical past, its role in the Greek Revolution of 1821 against the Turk conquerors which is due to the contribution of heroic fighters such as Laskarina Bouboulina, Hadjigiannis Mexis and Kosmas Barbatsis, who pioneered in the Naval Battle of Spetses ("Armata"), September 1822. A monumental reenactment of the historical battle Armata takes place every September and it contains many activities. It takes place through the duration of a whole week, culminating in the reenactment of the burning of an effigy of the Turkish flagship. Architecture holds a special place in the island’s cultural history. One can admire buildings such as the Giannouza mansion, the house in which Laskarina Bouboulina was killed, architectural masterpieces such as the mansion of the shipowner Ioannis Kastriotis and the important buildings of the early 20th century, Hotel “Nissia” an old textile factory, Admiral Fokas’ House, Hotel Poseidonio, mansion of Sotirios Anargyros and other. Notable tours of the island include the Lighthouse, the statue of Barbatsis, Panagia Armata and the Mela Outdoor Sculpture Park and a tribute visit to the famous ‘carnagia’, the boat carnagies of Spetses for an acquaintance with the art of craftsmanship and the famous shipwrights of Spetses. Contemporary art scene also has its say on the island. The Anargyreios and Korgialenios School of Spetses is organizing every year an art residency that is open to the local community. The historical school hosts the project “Insular Animisms” curated by Eva Vaslamatzi from April 2026. Among the wonderful moments of the island are the beaches in the Myrtoo Sea and the walks through natural paths. Every summer and autumn, the island hosts international maritime sports organizations such as the Spetses Mini Marathon and the Spetses International Classic and Traditional Boat Race (Spetses Classic Yacht Regatta, SCYR).