Just a breath away from the buzzing heart of Athens lies the Athenian Riviera—a sun-kissed coastline stretching from Piraeus to Cape Sounion. Here, the city melts into the sea, and ancient history meets modern luxury. As you drive along the palm-lined avenues, golden beaches like Vouliagmeni and Varkiza invite you to dive into crystal-clear waters. Chic seaside cafés hum with life, while yachts gently sway in the marinas. At sunset, the Temple of Poseidon at Sounion stands proudly over the cliffs, glowing in the fading light—a timeless guardian of the Aegean. Locals gather for seafood by the shore, laughter mingling with the sound of waves. It’s a place where time slows down, and the Mediterranean reveals its most elegant face. Whether you're sipping ouzo with a view or strolling the promenade, the Athenian Riviera promises a coastal escape with an Athenian soul.

Lake Vouliagmeni, located on the Athenian Riviera, is a natural thermal lake with a rich geological and mythological history. Formed thousands of years ago, the lake was created when a large limestone cave collapsed due to erosion and underground water activity. Its waters are a mix of seawater and underground thermal springs, maintaining a constant temperature between 22–29°C year-round, making it a natural spa. In antiquity, the area was considered sacred, possibly dedicated to the nymphs, and was used for healing purposes. The name "Vouliagmeni" means "sunken," referring to the collapsed cave. The lake is surrounded by cliffs and features an underwater labyrinth of tunnels, some of which remain unexplored. Today, Lake Vouliagmeni is a protected natural monument and a popular destination for wellness and relaxation, combining natural beauty, therapeutic waters, and a mysterious past close to Athens.

The Temple of Poseidon at Cape Sounion was built in the mid-5th century BCE during the Golden Age of Athens. Perched dramatically on a cliff overlooking the Aegean Sea, it was dedicated to Poseidon, god of the sea, offering protection to sailors and a sign of Athenian power. The temple was constructed on the ruins of an earlier one destroyed during the Persian Wars. Made of white marble from nearby Agrileza, it originally had 34 Doric columns—16 still stand today. Its strategic location made it both a religious site and a naval lookout. According to legend, King Aegeus leapt to his death from the cliff, giving the Aegean Sea its name. Over centuries, the site was abandoned but remained a landmark for travelers and sailors. Rediscovered in the 18th century, it became a symbol of classical heritage. Today, the Temple of Poseidon is one of Greece’s most iconic archaeological sites, admired for its history and breathtaking sunset views.

On a breezy afternoon in Palaia Fokea, kostas, one of the owners of 4 Brothers Tavern, stands at the entrance, welcoming guests like old friends. The tables sit just above the water, where fishermen still bring in the day’s fresh catch—red mullets, calamari, and sea bream. The tavern is more than a restaurant; it’s a tribute to the family’s refugee roots from Asia Minor, where fishing was not just a trade but a way of life. Kostas prepares the fish himself, grilling and seasoning them with olive oil and lemon. Fresh bread, warm from the oven, arrives with a village salad and a glass of ouzo. Greek music plays softly in the background, blending with the sound of gentle waves. At the end of the meal, a piece of homemade ravani is offered as a gift—a sweet symbol of Greek hospitality. 4 Brothers isn’t just a place to eat; it’s a place to feel. A story of sea, family, and tradition—served on a plate, with the horizon of the Saronic Gulf as your view.