Most visitors to Athens never see the countryside that starts just past the airport. The Mesogeia plain, east of Mount Hymettus, is still planted with vineyards and olive groves, and a winery visit here fits easily into half a day, or into the hours before a flight.
Attica's wine in one paragraph
Attica's signature grape is Savatiano, a white variety that copes with heat and drought and makes fresh, fruity wines. It is also the grape behind most retsina. The vineyards cluster in the Mesogeia, around Spata, Markopoulo, Koropi and Keratea.
Liepouris Winery, Keratea
A family winery founded in 1935 and now run by the third generation, with 350 stremmata (about 35 hectares) of vines, mostly Savatiano, a short drive from Athens airport.
- Wine tasting, €35 per person, two hours: a winery tour, five wines and a platter of cheese and cured meats.
- Roots: wine and olive oil tasting, €50 per person, two hours: wine plus four extra virgin olive oils from different regions and varieties, tasted in proper tasting glasses, with a platter.
Both run in English or Greek, with reduced prices for children.
Pair it with: Cape Sounion. Keratea is on the way, so book a midday tasting and carry on to the Temple of Poseidon for sunset. On your last day, it is an easy way to spend the hours before an evening flight.
A day trip to Evia for olive oil
On the Lelantine Plain between Chalkida and Eretria, the Spyridakis family has farmed the same olive grove since 1860. The Lilanto Estate grove tour and olive oil tasting (€10 per person, one hour) takes you through the trees and the mill, and ends with a tasting of their own oil. The olive harvest runs mainly from November to January.
When to go
The wineries welcome visitors all year. Harvest is in late summer. In July and August book a morning or late-afternoon slot to avoid the midday heat.
FAQ
How far is the winery from Athens?
Liepouris Winery is in Keratea, in the Mesogeia, a few minutes from the airport.
Do I need a car?
Yes, or a taxi. The wineries are in the countryside, away from public transport.
Can I bring children?
Yes, children pay a reduced price on all three experiences.