The incessant search for dark sites here in Greece is no different than that experienced by other amateurs across the
world. I consider myself perhaps fortunate in that industrial development has not led to as much light pollution as one
can find in many other parts of the world. We are fortunate to have a country characterized with many mountains and
isles which makes the pursuit and identification of relatively dark skies and sites a viable possibility.
The intent of this page is to document my experience and preference so as to assist the newcomer seeking similarly good
skies. Some sites I discovered on my own while travelling, for the identification of such spots is constantly on my mind.
Other sites were referrals by other local amateurs and which I have purposely visited for my own assessment and
education.
If you are aware of a site that you feel is worthy of consideration, I would be VERY grateful if you can let me know
since the identification of such sites is a personal ongoing project of great interest and something of mutual benefit
to all of us!
| Area | Altitude m |
Limiting Mag |
Regional Map |
Description |
|---|---|---|---|---|
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My dark site to-date lies at the absolute SW-most tip of the Peloponnese peninsula. Approximately 380 km from Athens by car, this area is certainly worth the effort to visit each month a few days before and after a new moon. The area between Finikous and Methoni is exceptionally dark with the southern Milky Way reaching the horizon! Be prepared for possible problems from dew (especially if imaging). | |||
(Kalavryta) |
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Lying in northern Peloponnesos and reaching an altitude of 2341 m, this site close to the city and ski resort of Kalavryta is also another personal favorite. It is two hours driving distance from Athens and provides amazing views to the north and west with exceptionally dark skies at the base of the ski resort. Following a very ROUGH dirt road to higher elevation, similar breathtaking horizons to the east and south become available. Ranks as my favorite location after Methoni. | ||
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I consider the top of Mt Kaithairon to be perhaps the best local site in the immediate vicinity of Athens! The absolute top of the mountain (base of the NATO antennae) faces immediately due south and provides exceptional clear skies towards the north, south and west. To the east and southeast, one faces the sky glow from Athens 70 km away which is significant and prohibitive. Drive carefully as you approach the absolute top and also be careful of the wild goats!!! | |||
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Report available shortly. | |||
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Situated 170 km northwest of Athens, ascending Mt Parnasso from the northern side (Polydrosi) is relatively easy due to excellent road facilities. At a distance of 1.5 km from the intersection of the roads for Polydrosi and Emfikleia and at an altitude of approximately 1550 meters lies an area providing truly excellent views in all four directions. The occasional tall tree (30° altitude or less) to the north, east and west provides the foreground for excellent wide-angle imaging as well. | |||
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Lying about 40 km from Tripoli, this site is a wonderful combination of darkness and shear physical beauty. This site provides exceptional views to the west and north; views to the east and south are limited due to large tall forest trees. Although physically 250 km from Athens, approximately 4 hrs are required to reach this site. Part of the extended time is due to the drive through Agios Petros and other similar small towns. A 2-3 day camping trip would seem most adviseable. | |||
(Crete) |
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Report available shortly. | ||
Isle of Euvoia |
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Report available shortly. | ||
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The area representing the midpoint between the main port at Paros and the northern beach area and town of Naousa/Kolimbithres, one will find perhaps the darkest site of any of the Greek isles. Thanks to a busy ferry schedule between the mainland and this popular Cycladic isle, excursions are easy and frequent. One should keep in mind that winds during August can be a factor worthy of note and consideration. |