Evia ...more on Evia

... Modern life of commerce and industry sits comfortably alongside the older traditions of farming and fishing.
 
The main road from Halkida, the island's capital on the west coast and midway along the length of the island, connects southeast to Eretria, a popular resort area.  Along the way, the road passes by the fine Malakonta Beach, which has ample facilities for tourists, and then passes through the village of Vassiliko.  The village has a marvelous distinctive local color and a Venetian tower.  Close by are the seaside settlements of Lefkanti and Kambos.
 
Continuing southeast along the coastal road, along the shores of the Gulf of Evia (Euboea), one comes upon the township of Amarinthos, which has a fine beach, tranquil surroundings, and plenty of attractive fish dishes to offer.  Nearby are the Byzantine churches of Metamorphosis and Kimissis Theotokou.  At Vlihos, there is a Macedonian grave.  Ano Vathia is a quaint village, with its Byzantine Church of Zoodochos Pighi and the monastery of Agios Nikolaos.
 
Following along the foothills of Mt. Skliro, the road leads into the town of Aliveri, with its spreading plain, its old tower, and the church of Agios Loukas.  In the same district stands the church of Agios Nikolaos, which contains well preserved Byzantine frescoes.  At Aliveri there is a major electric power station.
 
At the the next junction, you have the choice of moving south toward Karystos, or north to Kimi on the northeast coast.  Kimi is the main ferry port for boats departing to Skyros Island.  It has a sweet folklore museum and many surrounding vineyards producing a nice local wine.

Karystos, at the most southerly region of the island, is an interesting town with some very good beaches, an Archaeological Museum, some lovely neoclassical buildings, and a lively waterfront with some excellent tavernas.  From here you can reach one of the island's tallest peaks, Mount Ohi, and you can climb up to the medieval castle, Castel Rosso, for some truly spectacular views of the town below and the sea.  From the village of Mili, at the base of the mountain, you can make some longer treks that will take you up and around the mountain.

When looking to explore the northwest region of the island, you can base yourself at Limni on the south coast, one of the most beautiful small towns in Greece, complete with traditional mansions of its once seafaring inhabitants. From here you can make your way to the spas of Aedipsos, just up the coast, or to the hot springs of Yialtra, on the tiny peninsula opposite Aedipsos. There are many small villages to explore in the region, as well as numerous coastal fishing villages.  Near to Limni, and worth exploring, is the lovely convent of Ag. Nikolaos Galataki, with its 13th Century tower and excellent frescoes.  The surrounding countryside views are magnificent.