Discovering Schinias Beach: Athens' Best Kept Secret

So, you’ve soaked up all the culture and history Athens has to offer. You’ve wandered through the ancient ruins, marveled at the Acropolis, and eaten enough moussaka to feed a small army. Now, you’re craving some sun, sea, and sand. Well, let me let you in on a little secret: Schinias Beach. It's the hidden gem of Athens that locals would probably prefer to keep under wraps.

First Impressions: Love at First Sight

When you first set eyes on Schinias Beach, it’s like finding a mirage in the middle of Athens’ bustling chaos. Imagine three kilometers of golden sandy shoreline, stretching out invitingly. Forget those pebbly beaches that make you feel like you’re walking on Lego bricks—Schinias Beach is all about soft, sun-warmed sand that makes you want to kick off your shoes and dig your toes in.

The Waters: Crystal Clear and Inviting

Dive into the waters at Schinias, and you’ll understand why this beach is a local favorite. The sea here is so clear you can see your toes, even when you’re up to your waist. It’s like swimming in a giant, natural swimming pool. And yes, it’s the perfect place to check if you really need that pedicure.

The Pine Forest: Nature’s Air Conditioner

One of Schinias Beach’s coolest features (pun intended) is the lush pine forest that borders the shoreline. This isn’t just a pretty backdrop; it’s nature’s own air conditioner. On those blazing hot summer days, a stroll through the shaded forest is like pressing the refresh button on your internal thermostat. Plus, the air smells amazing—think pine-scented aromatherapy.

Activities: From Lazy Lounging to Adrenaline-Pumping Fun

Sure, you could spend your day lounging on a sunbed, working on your tan, and occasionally flipping over like a human pancake. But if you’re the active type, Schinias Beach has plenty to offer. The beach is a hotspot for windsurfing and kitesurfing, thanks to the reliable Meltemi winds. Not into getting airborne? No problem. Rent a paddleboard and glide over the calm, clear waters.

Eats and Treats: Beachside Bites

All that sun and sea will definitely work up an appetite. Thankfully, Schinias Beach has plenty of beach bars and tavernas where you can refuel. Grab a gyro, some fresh seafood, or a refreshing Greek salad. And don’t forget the ouzo! Just remember: sip, don’t chug. We don’t want any ouzo-induced belly flops into the sea.

The Crowd: A Mix of Everyone

Schinias Beach is the great equalizer. You’ll find families, couples, and solo sun-seekers all coexisting in sandy harmony. The vibe is laid-back and friendly, making it the perfect place to strike up a conversation or join a game of beach volleyball. Just be prepared for the occasional over-enthusiastic local who insists on showing you how to properly serve a ball or, even better, sing a traditional Greek song.

Getting to Schinias Beach

Wondering how to get to Schinias Beach from Athens? It’s easy! Located about 45 minutes from the city center, you can reach Schinias Beach by car or public transport. If you’re driving, there’s ample parking available. Alternatively, take a bus from Athens to Marathon, and from there, a short taxi ride will get you to the beach.

The Secret's Out

So, next time you’re in Athens and craving a break from the city’s hustle and bustle, head over to Schinias Beach. It’s the kind of place that makes you wonder how it’s stayed relatively under the radar for so long. But shhh, let’s keep it between us, okay? We don’t want it turning into the next Mykonos.

Whether you’re in it for the sun, the sea, or the serene pine forest, Schinias Beach is the ultimate Athenian escape. Just don’t forget your sunscreen—Greek sun is no joke, and nobody wants to leave paradise looking like a well-done lobster.

For more tips on the best beaches in Athens and other travel guides, stay tuned to our blog. Don’t forget to share your Schinias Beach adventure with us!

Why Greek Real Estate is a Success Story?

The recent announcement that Athens has secured the 5th spot in the global housing market, marking an impressive 12% annual rise in prices for 2023, according to Knight Frank’s latest research among 107 major cities worldwide, is a testament to Greece’s enduring appeal and evolving economic landscape.

This remarkable achievement is not merely a statistical triumph; it mirrors the dynamic transformation that Athens has experienced in recent years. The Greek capital, once known primarily for its historical significance, is now being transformed to a contemporary real estate hub, attracting investors, homeowners, and global attention.

Going one step further, Knight Frank's global index further underlines that in the third quarter of 2023, Greece secured the 3rd highest position among 56 countries concerning the average annual increase in nominal prices. This global recognition affirms Greece as a significant player on the international stage.

The following metrics, presented by Alpha Bank, reflect the upward track witnessed in the real estate sector in Greece:

Gross Value Added (GVA):

The GVA of the construction sector has grown at a noteworthy pace since 2018. Specifically, construction GVA in Greece increased by nearly 11% annually during the period 2021-2022 and by 17.2% on a yearly basis in the first nine months of 2023.

Production Index in Construction:

The Production Index in Construction exhibited a growth rate exceeding 24% in 2022, marking the highest increase among the EU-27 countries. This trend continued into the first nine months of 2023, with a 13.4% annual increase. Notably, the building construction, primarily encompassing private constructions, witnessed a remarkable ascent of 16.7%.

Investment Dynamics:

The positive momentum extends to the dynamic increase in investments in construction, which have been on an upward track since 2020. Specifically, residential investments rose by 33.7% in 2022 and by 40.2% in the first nine months of 2023.

Real Estate Market Rejuvenation:

Simultaneously, the real estate market continues its robust recovery. Residential property prices increased by 11.9% in the third quarter of 2023 compared to the same period in 2022, and the annual increase in the first nine months of 2023 stood at 13.9%.

Overall, significant contributors to the Greek Real Estate Success Story are positive economic growth rates since 2017, increased investments in construction, Foreign Direct Investments (FDI) in properties, and the Golden Visa program. Specifically, FDI in properties rose by 29% in the first nine months of 2023, compared to the corresponding period in 2022.

Greek Real Estate appears to be particularly attractive for foreign investors, as they are recognizing the potential for solid returns in a country that seamlessly blends its rich past with a dynamic future.

Buying a Property? 12 things to consider

When buying a house, there are several important factors to consider. Here are some key aspects to keep in mind:

1. Budget and Affordability: Determine your budget and how much you can comfortably afford for a mortgage payment. Consider your income, expenses, and other financial obligations.

2. Location: Evaluate the neighborhood, proximity to place of interest like schools, workplaces, amenities, and public transportation. Research the area's safety, future development plans, and property value trends.

3. Size and Layout: Consider the number of bedrooms, bathrooms, and overall square footage to ensure the house meets your current and future needs. Assess the floor plan and check if it aligns with your lifestyle and preferences.

4. Condition and Maintenance: Inspect the house thoroughly or hire a professional home inspector to assess its condition. Look for any structural issues, water damage, electrical or plumbing problems, and consider the potential maintenance or renovation costs.

5. Resale Value: While you may plan to stay in the house for an extended period, it's wise to consider the resale potential. Research the local real estate market and evaluate if the property is likely to appreciate in value over time.

6. Energy Efficiency: Assess the energy efficiency of the house, including insulation, windows, heating, ventilation, and air conditioning systems. Energy-efficient homes can save you money on utility bills and be more environmentally friendly.

7. Natural Disasters and Environmental Factors: Research the area for potential risks like flooding, earthquakes, hurricanes, or wildfires. Check if the property is located in a flood zone or requires additional insurance coverage.

8. Accessibility and Future Needs: Consider the accessibility features of the house, such as stairs, doorways, and bathroom facilities. Anticipate any future needs, such as aging in place or accommodating family members with disabilities.

9. Financing Options: Research and compare mortgage options from different lenders. Consider interest rates, down payment requirements, loan terms, and eligibility criteria to choose the most suitable financing option.

10. Legal and Documentation: Ensure all legal aspects, including property title, surveys, permits, and inspections, are in order. Hire a qualified real estate attorney to guide you through the legal process and review all necessary documentation.

11. Emotional Factors: Buying a home is a significant decision, so consider your personal preferences, emotions, and how the house aligns with your lifestyle, aspirations, and long-term goals.

We pride ourselves on offering the highest value for money in eastern Attica , ensuring that your investment goes a long way forward achieving your dream home.

At Alestate.gr we ensure you that our properties are well structured with the right materials. All the necessary assumptions have been checked by legal and financial experts. They are well-conditioned, regularly maintained, energy efficient and environmentally friendly. Our apartments are located near the beach with a great view of Schinias National Park and its forest. The ratio between Affordability and its location is one the cheapest in the region of Dikastika. Check out each apartment for more details.