The coastline of Almyros

With the spotlight usually on Pelion, the Sporades and Volos, Western Magnesia remains somewhat “in the shadow,” a relatively undiscovered destination. Nevertheless, it is a region of immense and multifaceted interest — archaeological, religious, and nature-related.
 

In addition, along the Almyros coastline, it offers a “fan” of options for those who love the sea and swimming, with six of its beaches (Almyros Beach, Amaliapolis, Nies, Lefki Pteleou, Loutro Pteleou and Achilleio) being awarded the “Blue Flag” in 2025. The area is also a favorite “stop” for sailors, whether they are sailing around the Pagasetic Gulf or heading towards the Sporades.

Amaliapolis and Nies

About 5 km from the town of Almyros lies a series of long, narrow beaches such as Almyros Beach (“Karagkiol”) and Efthsinoupoli Beach (“Ai-Giannis” or “Tsigkeli”). From there, heading southwest, begins a succession of coves, both small and large.

The first stop is Amaliapolis, also known as “Nea Mitzela,” because it was here that the persecuted inhabitants of the now “vanished” village of Palia Mitzela in Pelion resettled during the years of Ottoman rule. The village was founded in 1835 and was named “Amaliapolis” in 1839 in honor of Queen Amalia, wife of King Otto of Greece. Today, Mitzela is a popular destination with very good facilities. At the western end of this beautiful settlement, which resembles an island town, lies one of the most popular beaches in the area. Just across from the village is the small island of Agios Nikolaos (also known as “Agia Marina”), which many identify with the ancient Kikynthos.

About 7 km south of Amaliapolis lies Nies, a long, narrow settlement surrounded by olive trees and famous for its tavernas and tsipouradika (ouzeries). The village’s large beach is divided in two by a small peninsula, on which stand the ruins of an old olive press.

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Beaches of Pteleos and Achilleio

Pteleos is a lively semi-mountainous village, whose seaside port is the picturesque settlement of Pigadi Pteleou. In Pigadi you’ll find excellent tavernas, and just a short distance from the village several beautiful beaches await. Notable among them are Lefki Beach to the north and Loutro Beach to the east. The sandy beach of Lefki offers sweeping views over the entrance of the Pagasetic Gulf and the southern tip of Pelion, with Trikeri and Agia Kyriaki standing out on the horizon. At Loutro, you can enjoy plentiful shade from eucalyptus and palm trees. Just above the beach, you can see the ruins of the Venetian Castle of Pteleos. Before reaching Leichoura Beach, even further south, lies a significant wetland area.

At the end of the route, you’ll come to Achilleio, a favorite destination among skippers thanks to its organized marina. It is also beloved by those who enjoy tsipouro, ouzo, and fresh seafood. At the northern end of the village lies its Blue Flag–awarded beach, while the most popular one in the area is Agios Dimitrios Beach, “behind” the peninsula to the west of the village, which also offers wonderful views of the coasts of northern Euboea.

This side of Magnesia offers many options, ideal for those seeking a relaxing holiday far from the crowds and the loud music of busy beach bars.