Moni

Moni Review

In summer, caïques make frequent trips of 10 minutes from Perdika Harbor to Moni (www.greekisland.co.uk/aegina/aegina.htm), a real heaven-on-earth inhabited only by peacocks, wild deer, and relocated kri-kri (Cretan goats). Shadowed by pine trees, hiking trails wind their way through the little island's pristine landscape. Once the property of the Monastery of Chrysoleontissa, it is now a nature preserve. After your hike, take a most refreshing swim off the little sandy beach in the marvelously clear green waters by the quay. Note that the boatmen come back every hour, allowing you to leave whenever you wish (the return-trip ticket to and from Perdika costs €5 euros). A small beach bar operates in summer, offering cool drinks and toasted sandwiches but, if you plan to spend the day here, you would be better off bringing a full picnic lunch. In crowded Attica, Moni is a lovely way to escape the madding crowds.