The beautiful island of Evia is the second largest island in Greece after Crete. Evia stretches over the Aegean Sea to the east of Mainland Greece, alongside the shores of the prefectures of Fthiotida, Viotia and Attica separated form them by the Gulf of Eubea. The name Evia, allegedly given by Homer, expresses the fertile terrain and developed cow breeding, for which the island was renowned. It is a land of scenic contrasts, fascinating the visitor at every turn: wooded mountainsides, crenellated beaches, fertile valleys, rugged seascapes. The west coastline of the island is sheltered and ideal for water sports. In contrast, untamed beauty dominates on the eastern shore line ending up at the usually stormy cape of Kafireas, at the SE tip of the island, opposite Andros. There are high thickly wooded mountains and stretches of valleys. The island is also endowed with the peculiar tidal current of the narrow Evripos strait. In the prefecture of Evia you can find numerous historic monuments, endless natural charms, superb beaches, and interesting tourist destinations that are really worth visiting. A unique atmosphere, with tradition and modernity side by side, offers holidays adapted to the likes of everyone. Evia is easily accessible from a fork on the National Athens-Lamia Road and is connected with Mainland Greece by a swing bridge. The prefecture is scattered all over with archaeological finds, indicating continuous habitation of Evia reaching as far back as the Paleolithic period. The first settlers of Evia were the Ions, the Achaeans, the Aeoles ,and the Dorians. Evia was involved in the most important wars in ancient times starting with the expedition to Troy to the Persian Wars. It was dominated by the Macedonians and like the rest of the Greek regions it underwent the usual Roman, Frankish, Turkish period. Evia took part energetically in the revolution of 1821 against the Turks and became part of the independent Greek State on July 13, 1830. Evia is connected by ferry with: Agiocampos-Glyfa, Aidipsos-Arkitsa, Eretria-Oropos, Almyropotamos-Agia Marina, N. Styra-Agia Marina and Karistos-Rafina. Also, Kymi-Skyros, Kymi-Sporades, Kymi-Agios Efstratios-Limnos-Kavala and hydrofoil connections Halkida-South Evia-Cyclades. Ports and anchorages facilitate large vessels and smaller pleasure boats along the coastline of Evia. Evia justifies its reputation as an increasingly popular holiday destination all year long offering highly developed tourism facilities and providing infinite opportunities for a most pleasant stay. The beaches along the coast of the Eubean Gulf are traditionally more popular as they are easily accessible. You can visit Eretria, Amaryntos, Halkida, Styra, Marmari, Karistos, Limni and Aidipsos with thermal springs. Skiros island, Limni, Pefki, Orei and Agia Anna are areas with significant tourist traffic while the eastern shores are gradually becoming more known. Evia is an ideal place for good eaters. Fresh fish and seafood are served at traditional taverns and the local specialties are unforgettable: vegetable pies, spicy cheese, tasty meat and sausages, delicious pastries.