Where to stay in Xylokastro , Centre/Pefkias, Sykia, Trikala Korinthias & Kamari

If you're looking for where to stay in Xylokastro, the short answer is: it depends on whether you want a lively centre with tavernas and a promenade, a quiet neighbourhood with pine trees just outside the town, or a picturesque village at the foot of Mount Ziria. Xylokastro, on the northern coast of Corinthia, is one of the most popular weekend destinations for Athens and Patras, thanks to its easy access from the new National Road and the combination of sea and mountain it offers within a few kilometres. In this guide, we analyse the four main accommodation areas —Xylokastro centre/Pefkias, Sykia, Trikala Korinthias, and Kamari— and suggest over ten tried-and-tested accommodations for every type of traveller.

Geography, distance and access

Xylokastro is located approximately 96 kilometres west of Athens and 87 kilometres east of Patras, on the Athens-Corinth-Patras New National Road axis. By car, the journey from Athens takes about 1 hour and 10 minutes to 1 hour and 25 minutes, depending on traffic on Attiki Odos and tolls (the total cost of tolls for the journey is around 6-8€ per direction). From Patras, the journey is approximately 1 hour. There is also an old national road that passes through Kamari and Trikala, slower but more scenic, with views of the Corinthian Gulf. The train (suburban/intercity network) serves the Athens-Corinth line, but the Corinth-Xylokastro connection is not regular for passenger trains today, so the vast majority of visitors arrive by private car or by KTEL Korinthias bus, which has several daily routes from Kifissos station in Athens.

Historically, Xylokastro developed in the 19th and 20th centuries as a holiday resort for the Athenian bourgeoisie, thanks to the railway connection that existed then and its mild climate. The poet Angelos Sikelianos was closely connected with the town —his “Delphic” spirit is found here through his relationship with the place— and his name is now given to streets and institutions. Xylokastro's beach is known for its plane and pine trees that reach almost to the sand, creating a rare image of shade by the sea, especially in the Pefkias area. South of the town, the terrain rises quickly towards Mount Ziria, with villages like Trikala Korinthias traditionally serving as a summer “cool” refuge at an altitude of approximately 900 metres, with a distinct microclimate and famous cherry production.

What to see in the area: the coastal route with plane trees in Pefkias, the historic centre of Xylokastro with its neoclassical buildings, the Holy Church of Agios Georgios, the Zacholi Gorge near Trikala, the legendary “Fónissa” Gorge near Kamari (named after Papadiamantis' novel of the same name, as the area is considered a source of inspiration), and of course Sykia, a quiet coastal district between Xylokastro and Kamari with less traffic. The distance between Xylokastro and Trikala Korinthias is approximately 20 kilometres of mountainous route (about 30-35 minutes by car), while Kamari is just 5 kilometres west, on the old national road towards Akrata-Aigio.

Xylokastro centre & Pefkias — for those who want lively atmosphere and beach within walking distance

Xylokastro's centre and neighbouring Pefkias concentrate most of the area's accommodations, restaurants, cafes, and bars. It's the ideal base if you want to walk to the beach, have access to supermarkets and pharmacies, and enjoy an evening stroll along the promenade. Pefkias, specifically, stands out for the shade of the pine trees over the sand —a rare sight for a Greek beach— and is a little quieter than the natural town centre.

1. Riviera Hotel
A hotel right on Xylokastro beach, with private access to the sea. Suitable for couples and families who want to stay literally by the waves, without needing a car for their daily commutes to the centre.

• Average cost: 85-130€ per night

2. Daphne's Club Hotel Apartments
Hotel apartments on Sikelianou street, near the beach, with excellent reviews for its location. Suitable for families or groups who want an independent space with a kitchen, while maintaining the comfort of an organised hotel.

• Average cost: 95-150€ per night

3. Xylokastro Antique
An apartment in a central location in Xylokastro, with decor reminiscent of an old mansion. Suitable for couples who want to be close to shops and the promenade, without needing a large space.

• Average cost: 70-100€ per night

4. Diamante Beachfront Suites
Modern beachfront suites on the old Corinth-Patras national road, on the borders of Xylokastro-Pefkias. Suitable for couples who want comfort, views of the Corinthian Gulf, and quiet accommodation a little removed from the bustle of the centre.

• Average cost: 110-170€ per night

5. Dreamy Bay
A beachfront accommodation in the Pefkias area, with private beach access and a quiet environment among the pine trees. Suitable for those who want a sense of seclusion without straying too far from the centre.

• Average cost: 100-140€ per night

Sykia — a quiet seaside neighbourhood for families

Sykia is located slightly west of the centre, transitioning towards Kamari, and offers a calmer version of seaside life, with less evening traffic and ample parking. It's a popular choice for families with young children or for those who want to avoid the nightlife of the centre, while maintaining easy access to it with a few minutes' drive or cycle.

6. Emily's
A holiday home in Potami-Sykia, with an excellent location rating. Ideal for families or couples seeking an independent space near the sea, away from the bustle of the centre.

• Average cost: 90-135€ per night

7. VF House
A holiday home in Sykia, Xylokastro, with a very good location rating and beach access. Suitable for groups or families who prefer house-type accommodation with more privacy.

• Average cost: 95-145€ per night

Trikala Korinthias — mountain accommodation with cool air and cherries

Trikala Korinthias, also known as the “balcony of Corinthia”, is located at an altitude of approximately 900 metres at the foothills of Mount Ziria, about 20 kilometres south of Xylokastro. It traditionally serves as a summer escape from the heat, with famous cherry production in June and a cool, mountainous climate even in August. It's a good choice if you're planning a sea-and-mountain combination trip, or if you want a more authentic picture of life away from beach tourism.

8. Archontiko Fiamegou Hotel & Spa
A mansion-hotel in Mesa Synoikia, Trikala Korinthias, with a spa and traditional aesthetics. Suitable for couples seeking a romantic mountain getaway with views and quiet evenings away from the coastal hustle.

• Average cost: 110-160€ per night

Kamari — picturesque seaside settlement next to Xylokastro

Kamari Korinthias is just 5 kilometres west of Xylokastro's centre, on the old national road towards Akrata and Aigio, on the southern shores of the Corinthian Gulf. It is a small, quiet seaside settlement, birthplace of prominent figures in Greek political life, with less tourist infrastructure than Xylokastro but a more relaxed atmosphere. If you prefer quiet accommodation with a car, the Pefkias and Sykia accommodations mentioned above, such as Diamante Beachfront Suites and VF House, are located en route to Kamari and make a practical base for those who want to visit the area while maintaining access to more services.

In Kamari, it's worth walking around the small harbour, seeing the gorge connected to the story of Papadiamantis' “Fónissa”, and enjoying fish tavernas with fresh fish. The area is ideal for a day trip from any accommodation you choose in Xylokastro, as the distance can be covered in 8-10 minutes by car.

When to visit Xylokastro

The best period for swimming is from mid-June to late September, with sea temperatures remaining pleasant until October. Summer weekends and especially the 15th of August see increased demand due to its proximity to Athens, so booking at least 3-4 weeks in advance is recommended. Spring (April-May) and autumn (October) are ideal seasons for those who want to combine the beach with hiking in Trikala Korinthias and the Zacholi gorge, with milder temperatures and lower accommodation prices. In winter, Xylokastro primarily functions as a weekend destination, with an emphasis on gastronomy and strolls along the promenade.

Practical tips for your stay

• If travelling with children, prefer accommodations in Pefkias or Sykia, where the beach has shallow waters and shade from the pine trees.
• For accommodation without a car, choose accommodation in Xylokastro's centre, near the promenade and the square, so that everything is within walking distance.
• If you want a mountain-sea combination, consider two overnight stays: one in Xylokastro and one in Trikala Korinthias, with an intermediate stop at the Zacholi Gorge.
• Book early for July-August, as the area receives a large number of visitors from Athens and Patras on weekends.
• Check if the accommodation has parking, especially in Xylokastro's centre, where parking space is limited in summer.

Other destinations near Xylokastro

If you are planning a wider tour of the Peloponnese, you can combine your stay in Xylokastro with a getaway to mountainous Where to stay in Kalavryta, about an hour to the south, or with a stop in cosmopolitan Where to stay in Loutraki, just 45 minutes east. For those who prefer a historical destination with a castle and sea, Where to stay in Nafplio is another good choice in the southern Peloponnese. Finally, if you are interested in western Mani and coastal Messinia, see our guide Where to stay in Kalamata.

Frequently Asked Questions

How far is Xylokastro from Athens?

Xylokastro is approximately 96 kilometres from Athens, with a journey time of 1 hour and 10 to 1 hour and 25 minutes via the New National Road, depending on traffic on Attiki Odos.

Which area is better for families with children, the centre or Sykia?

Sykia is quieter and preferred by families who want less evening activity, while the centre and Pefkias suit those who want everything within walking distance, with shallow waters and shade from the pine trees.

Is it worth staying in Trikala Korinthias in the summer?

Yes, especially if you want an escape from the beach heat. At an altitude of approximately 900 metres, Trikala Korinthias has a noticeably cooler climate and offers hiking, gorges, and local gastronomy, just 20 kilometres from Xylokastro.

Do I need a car to stay in Xylokastro?

If you are staying in the centre or Pefkias, it is not essential for your daily needs, as everything is close by. However, for visits to Kamari, Sykia, or Trikala Korinthias, a car significantly facilitates travel.

How far is Kamari from Xylokastro centre?

Kamari is approximately 5 kilometres west of the centre, on the old national road towards Akrata and Aigio, with a journey time of 8-10 minutes by car.

What is the best time of year to stay in Xylokastro?

The period June-September is ideal for the sea, while spring and autumn offer better prices and milder temperatures, ideal for hiking in the area's mountain villages.