Metochi
A small traditional village on a hill with striking views of Aegina and the Peloponnese. The quietest, most authentic spot on the island, perfect for escaping the tourism.
Metochi, the secret viewpoint of Agistri
Metochi is one of those places you find without looking for them. We were pedalling along the inland road, the one that links Skala with Megalochori without going round the coast, when we saw a turning that climbed up a hill. There was no sign. Just a tarmacked track winding between pine trees. We decided to go up. And it was the best decision of the trip.
At the top we found Metochi. A handful of stone houses, a tiny square with a fountain, and the best views on the whole island. From here you can see Aegina to the north, the Peloponnese to the west and, on very clear days, even the distant outline of Hydra. Sunset from this spot is quite simply magical. The sun goes down over the mountains of the Peloponnese and turns the sea orange and pink.
Metochi is the smallest and least visited village on Agistri. Barely twenty people live here. There are no tavernas and no shops. Just silence, pines and views. If you come at sunset, bring a beer and something to eat. Sit on the bench in the square. And just look. You do not need anything else.
Next to the village a path sets off into the pine forest towards the west coast. We walked for about half an hour among twisted trunks and a floor of pine needles. The path comes out at a natural viewpoint above the cliffs. Below, the sea breaks against the rocks. There is no beach. There is no access. Just the sound of the wind and the endless blue.
Metochi does not appear in many guidebooks. And perhaps that is for the best. It is one of those secrets shared only by the people who have been here. A place where Agistri shows itself exactly as it is: green, quiet and deeply beautiful.