Ilia

Discover Ilia

Ilia, also known as Elis, is one of the seven prefectures of the Peloponnese and forms its northwestern part. It borders Achaia to the north, Arcadia to the east, Messenia to the south and the Ionian Sea to the west. The region is predominantly flat; intensive agriculture is practiced especially in the western coastal plains. The mountainous part lies in the northeast and east along the border with Achaia, around the southern slopes of Mount Erymanthos (2,129 m) and Mount Lampeia (1,797 m).

Miles of fine sandy beaches, wide plains, lagoons, a varied hilly landscape in the south and impressive mountain ranges in the east characterize this sun-drenched region of the Peloponnese. The coast of Ilia is mostly straight and flat, interrupted only by the two capes at Katakolon and Kyllini. Near Pyrgos lies Lake Kaiafas with its mineral springs. On the northwestern coast is the Katochi lagoon, while near Kyllini you will find the famous thermal springs. The main towns of the prefecture are Pyrgos, the ports of Katakolon and Kyllini, and the small town of Amaliada. Inland, the charming mountain villages of Krestena and Andritsena are well worth a visit.

Historically, Ilia mostly played a secondary role. Even in ancient times, it was a region of rural settlements and agricultural estates. The only town of independent significance was Elis (ancient Iliada), which – apart from its acropolis – remained village-like in character. The political neutrality of the region was a decisive factor in the development of Olympia as a pan-Hellenic sanctuary and venue of the ancient Olympic Games. In antiquity, Elis was also the only Greek region where cotton was cultivated.

The region flourished in the 13th century, when numerous castles and noble residences were built and Ilia became the heartland of the Frankish knightly state. Today, Ilia is one of the most fertile areas in Greece and is often referred to as the country’s “fruit and vegetable garden.” The rivers Pinios and Alpheios play a major role in supporting its intensive agriculture. Crops grown here include cereals, rice, wine, cotton, citrus fruits, olives, vegetables and legumes.

Tourism also plays an important role: the archaeological site of Olympia attracts thousands of visitors every year. The dune beaches of Kyllini, Skafidia and Kakovatos are also very popular. In addition to Olympia, the region offers a wide variety of Byzantine churches and medieval castles of archaeological and historical value.

Holiday in a Vacation Home in Ilia

Swimming and Beaches in Ilia

Water temperatures begin at around 16°C in April, rise to about 22°C in June, reach up to 26°C in July and August, and remain pleasantly warm until October (around 22°C). In November, they drop to around 19°C.

• Analipsi – Beach near Kastro: Around 4 km south of the port of Kyllini and below Chlemoutsi Castle lies the gently sloping pebble beach of Analipsi (approx. 3.5 km from the village). It is ideal for families with children. The beach taverna Kalamias, open only during the summer months, is well known for its excellent cuisine.
• Kyllini: At Cape Kyllini, about 10 km south of the port, stretches the kilometer-long, fine sandy and gently sloping “Golden Beach.” It is perfect for walks and family holidays. There are a few beach bars with sunbed and umbrella rental, while large sections remain unspoiled. Water sports enthusiasts and sailors will find ideal conditions here. Mountain bike tours offer fantastic views of the unspoiled natural surroundings.
• Loutra Kyllinis: About 15 km south of Kyllini lies the wonderful sandy beach of Loutra Kyllinis. Several renowned 5-star hotels are located here. The village is famous throughout Greece for its thermal springs. The modern hydrotherapy center is highly regarded, among other things, for skin conditions, asthma, bronchitis and arthritis. The baths were already famous in antiquity, and remains of the Roman facilities can still be seen today.
• Arkoudi and Glifa: South of Loutra Kyllinis lie the quiet beach of Arkoudi and the kilometer-long sandy beach of Glifa with crystal-clear water.
• Pyrgi – Skafidia: On the west coast of the Peloponnese, approx. 15 km northwest of Pyrgos and 12 km north of Katakolon, are the fine dune beaches of Pyrgi and Skafidia. Where fishermen’s huts once stood, you will now find holiday homes and a few preserved traditional buildings.
• Leventochori and Bouka: In the idyllic surroundings of the village of Leventochori lies a peaceful, fine sandy bathing bay. The Ionian Sea is especially clear here. The small bay of Bouka, further south, is surrounded by vineyards, pine trees and olive groves and offers a café, a taverna and a few holiday homes.
• Kakovatos: The largest dune landscape in Ilia stretches across the south of the prefecture around the peaceful village of Kakovatos. Miles of fine sandy dunes lined with pine trees and tamarisks define the scenery. Services such as beach bars or sunbeds have only appeared in recent years; large areas remain untouched. Behind the dunes lies the quiet village with its church, kafenions and tavernas.