An ideal spring time destination – Euboea.
Contributed by feature reporter Jens Hoffmann.
I have a new secret hide away, and it has me.
Arrival in Greece (Athens). Kalimera, sunny and lovely 20 degrees in March.
I love it to be in Greece.
The name of my hideaway is Euboea, island of Euboea. Just a 60 min drive away from Athens. The island has a big history and opened in former times new trade routes to Asia and the western world (Macedonia, Corfu e.g.) I felt like we were driving through a hidden gem, a beautiful no man land, such was the air of tranquility.
Euböa is the second-largest Greek island in area and population, after Crete.
The narrow Euripus Strait separates it from mainland Greece.
It forms most of the regional unit of Euboea, which also includes Skyros and a small area of the Greek mainland.
The charms of Evia are legendary.
Truly a interesting island with a long commercial, economic and cultural history that enthralls its visitors.
Despite being the second largest Greek island it has managed to stay relatively unknown.
First we stayed in Chalkis at “Hotel Lucy”. In Chalkis our “Culinary Euboea experience” started.
It was an exiting adventure:
We met a few local food entrepreneurs like Dirfis (Fresh & Dried Mushrooms).
Followed by Superfood Berryland.
Finally my favorite local food shop by Mrs Amali Kerasmata.
Amali prepared a great lunch for us- traditional, local food: pulpo, kofte, humus – yummy.
A greek experience. We enjoyed it. In the next month she will open her own restaurant. I am looking forward to that. We will stay tuned.
After that nice culinary highlight we drove to Eretria and checked in at Hotel & Resort Negrponte.
One of the most exquisite 5-star resorts on the island of Evia.
The elegant architecture follows that of the land, while its interior design impresses even frequent travel journalists, highlighting the hotel’s unmistakable insistence on quality and dedication to the magical combination of aesthetics and functionality.
The hotel offers unique and well-equipped rooms just a short drive away from Eritria.
It features both a restaurant and a bar, easy to relax, no fine dining but nice, typical greek food.
Easy to enjoy the feeling of peace in this romantic setting.
The nice outdoor pool was even in springtime fun.
Furthermore the beachfront property, overlooking the Gulf of Evia, gives breathtaking views of the coastline and mountains of Mainland Greece.
Since the hotel opening, distinguished clients have shown their appreciation for the owners’ passion to offer greek hospitality in the attractive setting.
The aim is to create a comfortable and relaxing ambience accompanied by lovely authentic Greek cuisine.
The selection of fresh vegetables, fruits, meat and seafood from the local farmers is done with personal care day in day out. 
The in-house bakery and pastry preparation guarantees premium quality fresh, non – frozen, bakery items throughout the day.
Finally you will find on Euboea a lot of greek mythology. Aristoteles died here and Achilles went out from here to explore the world. The myths and teachings of ancient Greeks, concerning their gods and heroes, the nature of the world are legend.
The origins of Ancient Greece is a long story and you will find a lot foodsteps on Eunböa.
I will make it short, today a bit about greek wine from Euboea.
The Greeks making wines since 4.500 before Jesus. This domination stalled when the Ottoman Empire conquered the island.
Today the wines of Evia are back on the track. There are many wineries operating with most of the vineyards on the island.
Touring the island: Our wine tasting at Petriessa vineyard.
Make time to visit here. Lovely wines!!
Very nice white wines – Malagouzia – a white Greek wine grape, ancient variety for varietal wine production. The grape is highly aromatic and the winery produced elegant wines with lively mouth feeling.
Super. The red wine we tasted was a Syrah, a bit unusual, very earthy, dark black fruit flavor and aroma.
Petriessa wines impress me with their elegance and quality.
That´s why you will find them on board of Aegean Airs.
As Evia is so large there are plenty of activities to keep you busy and for those who want a break from the beach can take part in trekking, biking, horse riding, water sports and hiking.
Wonderful coastal scenery and with it being a bit of secret you can enjoy the views without the big crowds and finally a lot of culinary highlights.
All in all, you’ll find everything: lovely beaches, historical buildings and charming peope.
Eating out: Perfect seafood restaurant in Chalkis
Where to stay: Hotel Lucy
The press trip was supported by Visit Greece (Germany).
With extra special thanks to Aegean Air.
Annex: My personal “Dionysos” tip.
German language.
Die neue Weinwelt – Wein aus Griechenland
English language
New Wines of Greece
