Perdika

Perdika Review

Follow the lead of the locals and visiting Athenians, and, for an excursion, take a bus (a 25-minute ride from Ethneyersias Square) to the pretty port village of Perdika to unwind and eat lunch at a seaside taverna. Places to eat in Perdika have multiplied over the years but are still low-key and have a strong island flavor, transporting you light-years away from the bustle of much of modern Greece. Try O Nontas, the first fish taverna after the bus station, for a meal on the canopied terrace overlooking the little bay, the sailing boats and the islet of Moni. Antonis, the famous fish tavern, draws big-name Athenians year-round. Saronis offers Greek noodles and halumi cheese and a delicious fish soup. Other interesting year-round cafés include the inviting Liotrivi, with its corner view on the port, beachside tables, and the antique olive press it's named after on display inside; the Kioski, in a little stone building; and mainstream bar Cafe Aigokeros. There's also a small sand cove with shallow water safe for young children to swim in. Across the bay, and only a short walk away, stands the sole modern building of a Camera Obscura. Inside, the cylindrical chamber allows the light to enter and projects an inverted image of the landscape outside—a technique that is now thought to have been used by many celebrated artists, including Leonardo and Vermeer. It is definitely worth a visit.

Hellenic Wildlife Hospital. Located on Mount Oros, just before Anitseo (north of Perdika), the Hellenic Wildlife Hospital (EKPAZ) is a non-profit institution, the oldest and largest wildlife rehabilitation center in Greece and southern Europe. It treats 3,000 to 4,500 wild animals from all over Greece every year. You can visit the sanctuary and adopt a wild animal, such as Miko the raccoon (an American species that was imported illegally in Greece and cannot be returned back), or the Grand-dad, a monkey from the Amazon which is 25 years old, for €50 per year. 22970/313338. www.ekpaz.gr.