Travel & Venue
Location & Venue
Marathon, Attica, Greece
A destination where history, coastline, and Mediterranean nature come together to host the 8th Mediterranean Conference on Marine Turtles.
Location — Marathon, Attica, Greece
Situated on the northeastern coast of Attica overlooking the South Euboean Gulf, Marathon is a place where legend and history converge. Most famous for the pivotal Battle of Marathon in 490 BC, where the Athenian forces defeated the first Persian invasion of Greece, the town's name has become globally synonymous with endurance and the classic 42.2 km race.
Beyond its battlefield glory, Marathon offers a landscape defined by rolling hills, fertile plains, and the pristine waters of the Aegean. Today, it remains a site of immense cultural significance, inviting visitors to explore the roots of Western history while enjoying the natural beauty of the Attic coastline.
Venue — Golden Coast Hotel & Resort
The Conference venue is the 4-star Golden Coast Hotel & Resort, located right next to the Marathon beach and overlooking the blue waters of the Aegean Sea. Built in a traditional Greek architectural style and nestled within lush Mediterranean gardens, the hotel provides a perfect venue in tranquil surroundings for our gathering.
The conference facilities are combined with bright, spacious rooms and bungalows, ensuring a professional environment where experienced staff will manage the event with expert precision. After a day of sessions, guests can take some deserved time to unwind by the seaside, enjoy the resort’s extensive pools, or take a short trip to explore world-renowned historic sites and the nearby Schinias National Park.
The Golden Coast Hotel & Resort is easily accessible from the Athens International Airport and is located less than one hour from the center of Athens. The venue has a long-standing reputation for hosting significant international events and has offered us competitive rates for both congress facilities and accommodation.
This is why we have chosen to organize the 8th Conference at this iconic location in Attica. Our priority remains to make this Conference financially affordable to as many of our colleagues and students as possible, ensuring that the Mediterranean sea turtle community can once again come together in person.
Accommodation
Single Occupancy
Double Occupancy
Rates above include breakfast and lunch buffets, taking into account dietary preferences and restrictions (i.e. vegetarian, vegan, gluten free, etc). Please be sure to inform the organizers of any food allergies to make sure that provisions are available in the daily food provided, including coffee breaks.
In addition, a small à la carte menu is available for dinner at an additional charge payable on site. Further information on this option will be provided as it becomes available.
All participants will have full access to the resort's private swimming pool.
For any question regarding room amenities please contact the hotel directly:info@goldencoast.gr
Travel Info
From the Airport
The most convenient way to reach the venue is by taxi (approximately 30–40 minutes) or by pre-arranged shuttle. For those using public transport, take the Attica Suburban Railway or Metro to Doukissis Plakentias and continue by regional bus (KTEL) or taxi.
By Car
From Athens or the Airport, take the Attiki Odos (A6) motorway towards Markopoulo/Rafina and follow the signs for Marathonas Avenue towards Nea Makri/Marathon. Free outdoor parking is available at the hotel.
By Bus
Regional orange buses (KTEL Attikis) depart regularly from Athens, from Mavromataion Street near Victoria Metro Station, towards Marathon / Nea Makri.
Useful Info
Entry Requirements & Visas
Greece is a member of the European Union and the Schengen Treaty. Participants from outside the Schengen Treaty Area should check with their local Greek Consulate or Embassy regarding visa requirements. If you require a formal Letter of Invitation to support your visa application, please contact info@medturtleconf.gr after your registration is confirmed.
Climate & What to Wear
In November, Marathon experiences mild Mediterranean autumn weather. Average temperatures range from 12°C to 18°C (54°F to 64°F). Days are often sunny, evenings can be cool, and there is a possibility of rain. We recommend bringing a light jacket and comfortable walking shoes for field trips and historic site visits.
Currency & Payments
The local currency is the Euro (€). Major credit and debit cards are widely accepted in hotels, restaurants, and shops. ATMs are available at the airport, in nearby Nea Makri (4 km), and within the hotel premises.
Insurance & Health
The organizing committee cannot accept liability for personal accidents or loss or damage to private property. Participants are advised to arrange their own personal travel and health insurance. The Marathoneio Medical Centre is located approximately 5 km away in Nea Makri for more comprehensive services. In addition, Botsis Stamatis Pharmacy is located approximately 800 m from the hotel at 131 Kato Souliou Avenue.
Emergency Contacts
All conference participants will be provided with the staff’s emergency contact information on the first day of the conference. In general, please use the following emergency numbers: