Ermones

On the coast, 8 km (5 miles) north of Pelekas lies the small, low-key resort of Ermones, with pebbly sand beaches, heavily wooded cliffs, and a backdrop of green mountains. The Ropa River, which drains the vast central plain, flows into the Ionian Sea here; according to local legend, Nausicaa was rinsing her laundry at the river mouth when Odysseus came ashore, as told by Homer in The Odyssey. A short walk inland you find the island's only golf course; beyond that, the vast Ropa plain extends, a paradise for hikers, bird-watchers, and botanists. Also to the rear of the resort is the mountain village of Vatos, with its stunning views and traditional, picturesque neighborhoods.