Aeacus

Aeacus is situated in the southwest of Aegina, just above Aeginitissa Bay and is perfectly placed for those who wish to stroll down to a beach and dine in seafront tavernas without needing to get in the car.

For those who love to get out and explore further afield, Aegina offers plenty to see and do, and its diminutive size (the three sides of its triangular shape measure between just 10km and 13km approximately), means that you're never more than an easy drive away from the island's natural and cultural treasures.

Apart from the beach at Aeginitissa Bay below Aeacus, there are some lovely stretches of sand and transparent waters at Marathona and Kolona on the west coast, Agia Marina on the east coast, and Klima on the southern tip.

Those with an interest with history and culture shouldn't miss the 2,500-year-old Doric Temple of Aphaia in the northeast of the island. Sitting on the top of a hill at 160m above sea level, it's quite a sight to behold, and over the centuries it has inspired numerous artists, including JMW Turner, whose painting of the temple based on a drawing of a fellow artist is part of Tate Britain's collection. There's a good little museum on the site, which is also worth a quick look.

Any trip to the Temple of Aphaia could be combined with a good walk around the Palaiochora archaeological site. A 9th-century Byzantine town, Palaiochora was the bustling capital of the island, built at a safe distance from the coast. At the height of its importance it is reputed to have had around 800 houses and a miraculous 366 churches. Less than 40 of the latter survive today, but they are home to some wonderful frescoes and architectural features.

Aegina Port is a picturesque little town with cafés, tavernas and shops wrapped around its harbour and it's a pleasure to spend a little time there. Just a short stroll north of the town are the remains of the seafront Temple of Apollo, which dates back to the 6th century BCE, and the island's impressive archaeological museum.

Just off the southwest coast of Aegina, and clearly visible from Aeacus, is the idyllic, uninhabited islet of Moni, which has a couple of gorgeous beaches (one with a bar), pine-carpeted hills and plenty of wildlife, including deer, wild goats, peacocks and much more. There are frequent ferry crossings from Perdika village, though the best way to visit the island, and indeed the wonderful seas surrounding Aegina, is by renting a boat.