Attica's most significant coastal ecosystem
Schinias-Marathon National Park is one of Attica’s most remarkable and treasured natural assets. Situated a mere 40km from Athens, it offers a rare convergence of sea, pine forest, wetland, and dunes, all in close proximity to the historic site of Marathon.
The park stretches between Schinias Bay and the peninsula of Kynosoura, safeguarded as an area within the Natura 2000 network. As you venture within, a shifting landscape unfolds: the coastal stone pine forest, sand dunes acting as a natural barrier, the Makaria Pigi wetland, and the lagoon.
Schinias Beach extends across the park's southern section, one of Attica's largest natural sandy stretches. The waters are shallow and clear, while the bordering pine forest creates a microclimate that makes a visit more pleasant even on the hottest days. In several spots, you can swim in the shade of the pine trees, a rare find in Attica.
Venture deeper to discover the wetland, a tranquil realm of reedbeds, shallow waters, and abundant birdlife. Over 220 bird species have been recorded here, including herons, coots, and migratory birds. Gentle paths meander around the wetland, ideal for leisurely strolls and nature observation, without significant elevation changes.
The Schinias Olympic Rowing Centre is also located in the area, integrated into the landscape in a way that coexists with the natural environment. When not hosting an event, it functions as an open recreational space, where one can walk, run, or cycle along level paths through a serene landscape. Its presence serves as a reminder that the park is simultaneously a conservation area and a site of modern activity, albeit subject to strict management rules.
The park stretches between Schinias Bay and the peninsula of Kynosoura, safeguarded as an area within the Natura 2000 network. As you venture within, a shifting landscape unfolds: the coastal stone pine forest, sand dunes acting as a natural barrier, the Makaria Pigi wetland, and the lagoon.
Schinias Beach extends across the park's southern section, one of Attica's largest natural sandy stretches. The waters are shallow and clear, while the bordering pine forest creates a microclimate that makes a visit more pleasant even on the hottest days. In several spots, you can swim in the shade of the pine trees, a rare find in Attica.
Venture deeper to discover the wetland, a tranquil realm of reedbeds, shallow waters, and abundant birdlife. Over 220 bird species have been recorded here, including herons, coots, and migratory birds. Gentle paths meander around the wetland, ideal for leisurely strolls and nature observation, without significant elevation changes.
The Schinias Olympic Rowing Centre is also located in the area, integrated into the landscape in a way that coexists with the natural environment. When not hosting an event, it functions as an open recreational space, where one can walk, run, or cycle along level paths through a serene landscape. Its presence serves as a reminder that the park is simultaneously a conservation area and a site of modern activity, albeit subject to strict management rules.
