MYLI (AGISTRI)
Myli (Agistri)
Megalochori, also known as Myli, is the main village on the Saronic island of Agistri. The island is not far from the other island of Aegina and the mainland city of Athens; it takes just 55 minutes from Piraeus by ferry. The port of Myli or Megalochori provides daily hydrofoil connections to Piraeus. Skala is another important port on the island, where passenger ferries able to carry vehicles arrive.
A brief history of the island
Inhabited for about 2,500 years, Agistri is named in some ancient classical texts, for example, Homer's Iliad. The book mentions Agistri's contribution to the Trojan War and its allegiance to the nearby island of Aegina. The ancient scribes Thucydides and Diodoros also refer to the island by its original name, Kekrifalia, which means 'embellished head'. The histories of Agistri and its neighbouring islands of Alonissos, Kontari, and Megaritis are all linked because, at one time, King Aeakos governed them together as the Kingdom of Aegina.
In the Medieval times, Agistri followed the historical trajectory of the rest of Greece: firstly being part of the Byzantine Empire, then being conquered by the Ottomans. Like the rest of the Saronic islands, Agistri became part of the first modern Greek state after the War of Independence in 1821. In 1835, the municipality recorded 248 inhabitants in Agistri. Electricity arrived on the island very late, in the early 1970s! And around the same time, a road around the island was also constructed. For the most part, tourism and agriculture form the base of Agistri's modern economy.
Things to do around Myli/Megalochori
There is a bike rental company near the port called Logothetis. They can provide you with bikes, helmets and any other equipment you may require, as well as advise you on the best routes around the island. Nearby there is a Greek Orthodox Church called Ekklesia Agios Georgios that is worth a short visit. There is also a supermarket called Nontas if you need to pick up any supplies. While in Agistri, visit Skala, particularly the church Ekklisia Agios Nikolaos. Or we suggest you go to the tiny islet called Απόνησος; you take a fast ferry from Aponisos, which is 8km southwest of Skala.
Beaches near Myli/Megalochori
Megalochori has two beaches with crystal clear waters and natural coves containing a mixture of sand and pebbles. The first beach is located to the west of Megalochori port, in front of Seaside Studios and has sand and shingle. The second beach is located right at the port, in front of the hotels. This beach is set up with umbrellas, deck chairs and tables, where you can swim, eat and drink. There are also some beaches around the village of Skala. Mariza beach is in a gorgeous little cove near the village of Limenaria, around 6 km south of Skala. It is best to visit this beach in the morning because the sea can become a little rough in the afternoon. Also be sure to bring provisions and something to lie on, as there are no services here.