Aidipsos, just north of Limni, is where Hercules came to recharge between each of his 12 labours. And who could blame him? There are more than 80 thermal springs here with temperature from 28° C to 86° C, with steamy, mineral-rich waters renowned for their healing properties.
The early 1900s architecture of the grand buildings on the waterfront (as well as the tavernas and cafes) are testament to Aidipsos being Greece’s original spa town (Maria Callas and Greta Garbo were fans). Natural springs warm the sea – making it a favourite of winter swimmers – and there is a choice of hotels incorporating thermal springs into their facilities, as well as a municipal bath complex with a large communal pool and personalised baths (and a small archaeological collection in its main building).
The curative characteristics of these springs help diseases like arthritis, while with spa-therapy women can treat gynecological diseases and men sexual dysfunction.
The settlement of Aidipsos is located 4km NE of the spa city. As for the region of Aidipsos, it is located 111 km NW of Chalkida (via Limni-Rovies). Aidipsos is connected by ferry to Arkitsa, Fthiotida.
Sightseeing
- The church Koimiseos of Theotokou on the settlement square. It was built in 1872 in baroque style.
- The Archaeological Collection of Loutra, which includes coins, capitals, relief works, sculptures etc.
- Polilofo (10km E), a mountain village at an altitude of 500m on mount Telethrio. The village has panoramic view of Aidipsos and Gialtra Gulf. At a distance of 2 km from the village, you will encounter the Monastery of Aghios Georgios.
- The female monastery of Aghios Georgios Ilion (15 km SE), built on the place of Apollo Ilios Sanctuary, surrounded by five water sources.
- Loutra of Gialtra, located 2,5 km south of Gialtra, just opposite to Loutra of Aidipsos, with thermal spas, which were also known since the ancient times.
Activities
- Swimming at the municipal beach of Loutron Edipsou, in Agios Nikolao, Riviera and Ilia.
- Water sports
- Fishing