Ermioni is a small port town , situated in the southeastern part of Argolida ,built next to a pine tree cape , Bisti, on the edge of the Argolic Bay – facing the islands of Dokos and Hydra. The basic occupation of the residents is the cultivation of olive trees.
The local economy is based on tourism , agriculture, and fishing. Ermioni is about 180km from Athens. The flying dolphins need 2 hours from the port of Pireaus, crossing Hydra and Spetses to get there. With a tradition over centuries to navigations , the town offered 3 ships , during the Naval Battle of Salamina and 500 soldiers to the Battle of Plataies.
The local economy was based on the production of porphyra, a very important red dye, used for the colouring of the Uniforms of many armies, including that of Alexander the Great. In 1827, the 3rd National Assembly took place there. Inside the settlement, there is no coast. But if you want to dive , you can get to the edge of Hersonisos, to the pine tree forest in Bisti. 8km southern , you can visit Kouverta, with te dark sand.
The beach is organized – it has a beach bar- with calm and clean water. One of the largest beaches in the area is Petrothalassa, eastern of Porto Heli, with turquoise water. Lepitsa is also famous –warm and shallow blue water, ideal for families. The beach is organized and there is a canteen, as opposite the beach there is also a fish taverna. 4km northern of Ermioni, you can find Dardiza, with a sandy beach and a canteen.Enjoy your walks to Bisti , the forest in Hersonisos.
It is a small paradise in town , as in the central plateau you can see the temple of Athena. Moreover, tourists can explore the gorge of Katafiki, which connects Ermioni with Fournous, 6 km northwestern. Rocks, caves, rich vegetation, the church of Agios Nicolas, built in 1740. You can also get to Fournous from the old bridge. The last 4 years the Carnival revives, in a cooperation between the Municipality and local authorities. The area is full of locals and visitors taking part in the festival. People of all ages dress up and have fun. Yala Yala is a special way to celebrate the Epiphany .
Young people dress up like sailors. The previous day people decorate their fishing boats with palm leaves, where they will dive ,after visiting local houses , receiving wishes and treats. They sing Yala Yala , shaking their boats, until they dive in water to catch the Holy Cross. The Burning of Judas is another tradition in the area, taking place at the night of Easter in the harbour, Boats and other vessels also take part, coming from Bisti with colourful lights. The residents gather around this effigy and set it on fire. The sight is spectacular and traditional music, dances and fireworks also take place.
On the 1st July and 1st November Agioi Anargiroi are commemorated with a big festival. Also, well-known is the festival of fishermen , when local people offer treats like lagana, tarama and fish food to visitors.