Location information

  In Ilia the visitor will be captivated by the endless beaches of golden sand and pine-clad mountains overlooking fertile valleys. Pyrgos, the capital, with its huge sand dunes will be a pleasant surprise and the air is heavy with the refreshing scent of pine. About 3 km further on, is Zacharo, which has a fine beach of golden sand and clean waters. There are restaurants, bars and hotels, so one combines a drive with refreshments. Continuing towards the borders of the prefecture one comes across a small group of villages with marvellous beaches that are well worth a visit. Among them is Kakobato, which has a lovely beach, while Neochori attracts people looking for peace and quiet.
  The settlements of Kato Taxiarches and Yianitsochori are perfect places to have a carefree holiday with starry summer nights and the restful sound of waves to lull you to sleep. With Pyrgos as a starting point again, one can visit the nearby pretty village of Katakolo, which is one of the prefecture's two main ports. Despite this, it is a peaceful place with intense Greek colour and character. Its beaches have all the tourist facilities one might need, such as hotels, restaurants and bars. Very near is the attractive bay of Aghios Andreas whose beach is usually lively and full of young people attracted by the numerous water-sports on offer.
  Leaving the sea behind for a while will give you the opportunity to meet the hospitable people of the village of Skafidia. This is a good example of a traditional Greek village with natural shade in the yards from the overhanging vines, mulberry trees and small taverns with genuine Greek dishes and local delicacies to replenish all the calories you've lost during the day. If one wants to stay the night, there are hotels and rooms to rent in the surrounding area.
  Those who want to catch the rising sun can set off early to explore the northern end of the prefecture with the turquoise waters in the area of Kylini. For camping we recommend the organised beaches of Ioniko, Thines, Glyfa, Loutra Kyllinis, and Kalamia. If one wants a rest from endless hours on the beach the nearby towns of Andravida, Vartholomio and Lechaina provide a change of scenery.

This text is cited December 2004 from the West Greece Region General Secretariat URL below, which contains image.

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