In what is shaping up to be one of the most high-profile coastal development opportunities in Greece, Vouliagmeni Beach—the undisputed crown jewel of the Athenian Riviera—is at the center of a heated contest among top-tier investors.
On Thursday, the Hellenic Public Properties Company (HPPC) announced it had received seven formal expressions of interest for the long-term lease of the landmark “Akti Vouliagmeni” site, marking a strong show of confidence in the area’s prestige and future potential.
This is more than a routine property concession. With its 20-year lease (plus a 10-year extension option), the contract offers exclusive access to a 72,700-square-meter prime coastal property located in the affluent municipality of Vari-Voula-Vouliagmeni.
Investors are particularly drawn by the chance to develop an additional 2,000 square meters of infrastructure, likely to host upscale amenities, and capitalize on a 638.5-meter stretch of beachfront that welcomed a staggering 420,000 visitors in 2024, with a daily capacity of 8,000 guests.
Behind the scenes, a competitive bidding war is underway, with major domestic and international players now vying for what many see as a rare gem on the Mediterranean map.
The site’s strategic location—just 25 kilometers from Athens’ historic center makes it one of the most coveted pieces of real estate in the country. Insiders suggest the level of competition reflects not only the beach’s current popularity but also its enormous potential as a luxury destination, blending tourism, wellness, gastronomy, and cultural experiences.
Related: The Most Beautiful Beaches Near Athens
Beyond its economic promise, Vouliagmeni is already a lifestyle icon. Renowned for its Blue Flag-certified waters, golden sands, and meticulously maintained facilities, the beach is a magnet for Athenians and visitors seeking a high-end seaside experience. The landscape merges natural beauty with quiet sophistication, rare in coastal hubs so close to urban centers.
Just across the road, Lake Vouliagmeni adds another layer of exclusivity. This natural thermal lake, set in a dramatic limestone basin, is famed for its healing properties and year-round swimming conditions. Wellness tourism has increasingly taken root here, thanks in part to the lake’s naturally warm waters and the quirky “spa fish” that offer an unexpectedly delightful exfoliation.
The surrounding Vouliagmeni district has long been associated with affluence and discretion. Celebrities, diplomats, and business elites favor the area for its laid-back luxury. Dining options range from seaside tavernas serving fresh seafood to gourmet restaurants, some even boasting Michelin-star acclaim.
Notably, shipping magnate Aristotle Onassis once chose it as a summer refuge—a legacy that endures in the area’s elite reputation.
Accessibility is another advantage. Though it feels like a private retreat, Vouliagmeni Beach is easily reachable from Athens by car or taxi, and well-served by public transportation. Yet, despite its proximity to the city, it offers a striking contrast to the urban sprawl—calm, refined, and immersed in nature.
Weekdays tend to be quieter, while weekends buzz with locals escaping the heat of the city.
Related: Athens Riviera: A Mosaic of Luxury for Every Lifestyle
