We meet at Legrena, a seaside settlement located 60 kilometers southeast of Athens. The departure point is the picturesque port which we meet before the homonymous beach (towards Sounion), host of the local Nautical Club. The entrance to the water is easy, from a small beach outside the port mouth, after checking the traffic of fishing boats. This is where our journey begins on one of the most interesting routes that one can do in Attica. On board for the Temple of Poseidon!

We start paddling alongside the long sandy beach of Legrena. During the summer months, the beach, despite its size, is filled with bathers and our passage requires special attention. Up ahead in the distance looms the imposing Temple, dedicated to the god Poseidon. There are testimonies of the establishment of temples on the cape as early as the 11th century BC.  For the ancient Greeks Poseidon was the “Sea God”. Given the contribution of maritime trade and the navy in the development and survival of the city of Athens in antiquity, Poseidon was of particular significance and value to the Athenians. In any case, as soon as you see it, you will feel the energy of the place. The closer you get and realize its true size, the more intense are the emotions, and the more overwhelmed you will feel with awe. It’s a unique kayak trip, a canvas of archaeology and mythology, your paddle being the brush.

It is a special opportunity to enjoy this monument from the sea, not to mention in a kayak. Its smooth and quiet flow, the harmony with the water as well as the independence it offers you will turn this excursion into a special experience

After a  2-mile paddle, having passed by a few islets and the Principi Island with its seabirds, we arrive just below the temple, where a short break is required. The stop is at sea for discussion, taking pictures, and a little rest. The truth is that no matter how long our stay at the spot lasts, it is never enough, but our journey continues. We leave the church and move along the coast in a northwesterly direction, next to imposing cliffs.  Here, the discussion could not but be monopolized by the search for the rock! The rock where Aegeus, the mythical king of Athens, after seeing the ship that had transported his son Theseus to Crete to kill the Minotaur and relieve Athens of the blood tax, return with black sails, , thought that Theseus was dead and in his desperation he threw himself into the sea. Thus, the Sea has since then been known as the Aegean Sea.

15 paddling minutes later, having enjoyed some small caves and scattered rock gardens, we arrive at a small beach with turquoise waters, where we can get out of the boats and enjoy a swim. The total distance we will have covered is 2.5 miles, so after our break we can take the way back making this route accessible for beginners as well.

If the group consists of more experienced paddlers, it is recommended that we continue in a northwestern direction. The route is impressive, with dozens of coves with beautiful beaches with crystal clear waters. After planning our route, depending on our potential, we enjoy the beautiful coastal zone of NE Attica until we decide to return. Our journey can be extended to 10 or 15 miles, as long as we stay strong for our way back.

Either the 5-mile or the 15-mile route is sure to enchant you, with images and intense emotions. A unique excursion to a unique spot, which we guarantee will be unforgettable!!!

In a Nutshell

The trip: Legrena – Temple of Poseidon – Arsida – Asimaki Beach

Difficulty Level: Beginner – Intermediate Level – Aimed at kayakers who can paddle for at least 2 hours without stopping and be in good physical condition. We can shorten our journey a little by visiting only Agios Nikolaos Beach

Total distance: 5 n.m. to 10n.m.
Total cruising time: 5 hours
What to visit: The Temple of Poseidon.

Crux points: Especially during the summer months, it requires special attention to swimmers.  Cape Sounion is particularly exposed to north and south winds and the route is not suitable if we do not have the necessary experience. Also, the scattered reefs and rock gardens that we will encounter on our voyage require careful planning.