There are many aspects of Ouranoupolis, so many places to visit. Some people like the active holidays, the water-sports, the jet-skiing and the windsurfing. Others prefer a deserted cove, a corner that they enjoy and keep visiting day after day, and often year after year. This is just a flavour of Ouranoupolis.
The view from the rolling hills above Ouranoupolis is enchanting. You can see the islands in the distance across the cal blue sea.
Without a doubt the imposing feature of Ouranoupolis is the Byzantine tower which stands sentry by the sea. It houses a museum and you can visit it during the summer. The view from the top balcony is simply magnificent.
The village church was built in 1923 with donations and personal labour from the locals. Monasteries from Mount Athos donated the temple, the epitaphios cloth and a number of antique icons. Since then it has been renovated and it is worth visiting to admire the extensive wall murals with scenes from the New Testament.
Every day fishermen in small boats return with their catch from a night's succesful fishing. The freshest fish can be enjoyed in the local restaurants.
The larger island is called "The Donkey Island" after the only inhabitants there. In the summer it gets busy. This is where the boats bring you to enjoy the golden sand and the clear blue sea.
A collection of uninhabited rocks bathing it the mid-day sun. A paradise of lonely coves and golden beaches.
The taverna on "The Donkey Island". Run by Kostas and Andonis, it is the only structure on the island. It provides umbrellas and recliners by the sea for free. It serves fresh fish, and souvlaki, washed down with draught larger and the local tsipouro. Ask for the fresh fish of the day or the steamed mussels which are kept alive and fresh in the sea..
If you are looking for peace and quite avoid "The Donkey Island". Hire a boat in Ouranoupolis and explore. You are bound to find a secluded cove and even a whole island to have to yourself for the day, with only company the fish and the sea-birds.
The Arsanas, a monastic building just inside the border to Mount Athos. Hidden among the olive trees, only five kilometres away from Ouranoupolis. The old building with a courtyard and a well in the centre marks the place where Byzantium joins up with today's world.
The monastery of Zygos from 942 AD on the border to Mount Athos is being excavated. It can be visited and although it is in ruins it is the only monastery women can visit since it is just outside the exclusion zone of Mount Athos.
