Cape Sounion Peninsula Overview

Far out at the end of Attica, the incessant noise, huge buildings, and heeled occupants of Athens seem but a faded memory. After winding around a coast that inevitably, it seems, will throw the KTEL bus over the edge, you reach the top of a hill where mountains, water, and a smattering of dried greenery dominate the scenery. Cape Sounion Peninsula, though not the most beautiful of destinations, is possibly the most tantalizing beach that can be reached from Athens by land. For those who've had too many days in the city, or simply for those thirsting for open air, this is a great daytrip. The tip of Cape Sounion Peninsula, which ends at an enormous cliff-face into the sea, was dedicated to Poseidon, the mythological God of the Seas. On the right of the bus stop is the incredibly impressive Temple of Poseidon, built in 600 BCE, and down the road from the bus stop is the Temple of the Goddess Athena, a bit less impressive. Even just for the chance to see water and not concrete on the mainland, Cape Sounion is worth the bus ride.

• Orientation

Cape Sounion Peninsula is at the end of the bus line, and buses loop back home after dropping off their passengers. Directly behind the bus stop is Cafe Naos, the best dining option in Sounion. Down the ...more

• Sights

Temple Of Poseidon, (At the end of the peninsula☎ 229 20 38 363), At the end of Attica atop a cliff, this temple sits in surroundings that, other than perhaps being more weather-beaten, are ...more

• Food

Cafe Naos, (Right behind the bus stop☎ 229 20 39 190), Though the food here borders on bland and the decor is a nondescript mix of stone, this restaurant is just 100m from the ticket booth ...more

• Essentials

Cape Sounion is sparse land. No pharmacy, office buildings, apartments, shops, or medical offices mark the beautiful landscape. Unfortunately, that means that travelers are out of luck when it comes to ...more