ERETRIA SIGHTSEEING TOUR FIELD GUIDE
A short, surprising day among stone giants: the Dragon Houses of Styra
A guided day trip led by a local expert that walks an ancient stone cart track to three well‑preserved Dragon Houses and lays out practical notes for hikers and non‑hikers alike.
A short, surprising day among stone giants: the Dragon Houses of Styra.
On the southern slopes above Nea Styra, three squat stone farmhouses—known locally as the Dragon Houses—stand as stubborn fragments of Classical to Hellenistic life. The route follows an ancient carved stone track used to cart massive quarried boulders toward the port, and the tour pairs calm seaside stops and bakery comforts with two to three hours of walking through scrubby hills and ruined terraces under a steady, local guide.
Highlights
Outing Highlights
Three well‑preserved farmhouse Dragon Houses
The visit concentrates on the best‑preserved examples—three farmhouse‑type buildings dating from Classical to Hellenistic times—letting you study construction and imagine the people who built and used them.
Walk an ancient stone track used to move boulders
The hike traces the carved stone track once used to cart large quarried blocks to Styra’s port, a tangible link to the working landscape and the effort behind those monoliths.
A blend of moderate hiking and village relax time
The program is designed to suit both hikers and non‑hikers: while some in the group walk 2–3 hours over 4 km with 290 m of elevation change, non‑hikers have a short 100 m uphill approach and can relax in Styra’s square, and everyone meets afterward for free time at local taverns.
What the day feels like
What the day feels like
The trip unfolds as a compact local day: a morning transfer to Styra, a bakery and water stop, then a guided walk along the ancient carved track to the Dragon Houses. Hikers move through terraces and scrub, covering roughly 4 km with about 290 m of ascent and descent over 2–3 hours of walking; non‑hikers take a short uphill approach to the site and spend more time in the village square before the group reconvenes for seaside free time and an optional meal.
Suitability
Who it's for
Who this trip suits and who should think twice
Practical planner
Details to review before reserving
Bring a small daypack and your own water bottle (there is a spring next to the bakery where bottles can be filled). Meals, snacks and drinks are not included.
Firm walking shoes are required; sunscreen is recommended from April through October and bring a sun hat or scarf.
Carry a lightweight windproof for June and September and a warmer shell jacket for cooler months (April–May and October–November).
Review cancellation policies before reserving.
Frequently asked questions
Planning Your Outing
How long is the tour and how much walking is involved?
Walking on the route totals about 4 km with 290 m ascent/descent; walking duration is typically 2–3 hours. The operator materials describe the outing as a day trip; see booking details for total time on‑site.
What ages and fitness levels are appropriate?
The tour is suitable for families with youths aged 12 and up; non‑hikers have a shortened approach of roughly 100 m uphill while hikers complete the full moderate walk.
What is included in the price?
Transfers to the start and back to Eretria, Amarynthos or Nea Styra and guidance in English and Greek by Evia Adventure Tours are included; meals, snacks and drinks are not included.
When is the tour available?
Private tours run daily upon request and availability; the outing is available from 15 March to 15 November.
What is the cancellation policy?
No fees will be charged if the tour is cancelled.
Are there language options for the guide?
Guiding is provided in English and Greek.