Egina is the most fertile of the Argo-Saronic islands and in ancient times was a rival of Classical Athens, trading with partners all over the known world and developing the first coinage system in Greece. It’s famous for its pistachio nuts and is home to one of the finest ancient temples in Greece – the Temple of Aphaea, set on a wooded hill with magnificent views, which dates from the 5th century BC. Egina Town is where Athenians go on the weekends to escape the city, relax, hang out, drink ouzo, eat seafood and watch the fishing boats and the fishermen mending their nets - what better way to visit than on an yacht charter?

Egina’s harbor is surrounded by grand old buildings and has a sophisticated ambience, with a semi-permanent yacht-dwelling contingent. There are plenty of good places to eat and drink, particularly at the south end of Panayioti Irioti behind the fish market. Octopus and sea urchins are the big menu staples here – be sure to try them both before you leave, no excuses! The food in general tends to be authentic, appealing to the mainly Greek tourists who visit the town and the more adventurous foreigners.

The town’s daily market is a great place to stock up on provisions. Near Egina Town there are a few beaches where the swimming is good – Prosinemo has a few loungers and a bar – and there are others north of Kolona.

The Temple of Aphaea is located close to the port town of Ayia Marina, Egina’s major beach resort, which has plenty of places to eat including a few good tavernas right by the tiny fishing harbour. The temple, which pre-dates the Parthenon, is dedicated to Aphaea, a Cretan nymph who fell into the sea while fleeing from the lust of King Minos. The legend goes that she was rescued by fishermen and brought to ancient Egina. The Doric temple is one of the most complete and visually complex buildings in Greece and a visit will be a real highlight.