A coastline made for laid-back swims
You have the privilege of being in mainland Greece, while enjoying the crystal-clear waters of the Ionian Sea. The mountain is at your back and the sea at your feet. These are the great qualities of Astakos, the seaside town in Aitoloakarnania, that lies beneath Mount Veloutsa. Although it sits close to the Ionian Islands with ferry connections to Kefalonia and Ithaca, it has managed to maintain a quieter character.
Your days here will unfold slowly: strolling through the picturesque town, sipping ouzo by the sea, and, of course, swimming. The coastline stretching from Astakos to Mytikas is dotted with small coves to suit every taste.
The easiest choice is the town’s central beach, with fine pebbles and the shops just steps away. It is also accessible to people with disabilities. A little farther along, yet still within Astakos, lies Goulia Beach, also pebbled, offering municipal umbrellas and a small shop for supplies. At the far end, beyond the rocks, a hidden beach awaits, preferred by the few, as there are no facilities. Quiet, sandy, and shaded by pine trees that reach down to the water it promises true relaxation. Below the Monastery of Ai Giorgi, you’ll find the beach that shares its name, equipped with municipal umbrellas. Within the town limits, you can also visit the small Eschatolagado Beach, which likewise provides umbrellas.
Driving toward Mytikas reveals even more beautiful beaches. Marathias is a lovely bay that, starting in summer 2026, will feature a beach canteen and sunbeds. Asprogiali is among the area’s most popular beaches thanks to its beach bar offering umbrellas and loungers—though you’ll need to navigate a dirt road to get there. Equally charming but with no facilities are the beaches of Vela and Mikri Agrilia, while there is a seaside taverna on Agrilia. Further along begins the vast coastal stretch of Paleovarka, a 3.5-kilometre beach lined with houses and seaside establishments, eventually leading you all the way to Mytikas.
Your days here will unfold slowly: strolling through the picturesque town, sipping ouzo by the sea, and, of course, swimming. The coastline stretching from Astakos to Mytikas is dotted with small coves to suit every taste.
The easiest choice is the town’s central beach, with fine pebbles and the shops just steps away. It is also accessible to people with disabilities. A little farther along, yet still within Astakos, lies Goulia Beach, also pebbled, offering municipal umbrellas and a small shop for supplies. At the far end, beyond the rocks, a hidden beach awaits, preferred by the few, as there are no facilities. Quiet, sandy, and shaded by pine trees that reach down to the water it promises true relaxation. Below the Monastery of Ai Giorgi, you’ll find the beach that shares its name, equipped with municipal umbrellas. Within the town limits, you can also visit the small Eschatolagado Beach, which likewise provides umbrellas.
Driving toward Mytikas reveals even more beautiful beaches. Marathias is a lovely bay that, starting in summer 2026, will feature a beach canteen and sunbeds. Asprogiali is among the area’s most popular beaches thanks to its beach bar offering umbrellas and loungers—though you’ll need to navigate a dirt road to get there. Equally charming but with no facilities are the beaches of Vela and Mikri Agrilia, while there is a seaside taverna on Agrilia. Further along begins the vast coastal stretch of Paleovarka, a 3.5-kilometre beach lined with houses and seaside establishments, eventually leading you all the way to Mytikas.
