Etoloakarnania is the last district of Sterea Ellada. The capital Messolongi, wrote a heroic page of modern Greek history when fighters in the besieged city broke out of it during the Greek War of Independence (1821-1830). To the east is the third large city of the district, Nafpaktos which charms visitors with its beautiful Venetian castle and old port. The road from here moves into mountainous Nafpaktia, which boasts Greece's largest fir tree forest and plenty of tiny villages lost in the woods at altitudes from 700 to 1,000 metres. The little island of Etoliko is joined to the mainland by a multi-arched stone bridge. Agrinio is to the north of Messolongi; it is an important production centre with good tourism infrastructure. The picturesque town of Astakos, amphitheatrically built around the gulf of the same name, is a splendid resort. White sand graces the endless beaches at Agios Giorgis, at Asprogiali, and at Vela, all perfect for quiet and speciai holidays. The coastal road leads to Mitikas and from there opposite to the islets of Kalamos and Kastos. Further north is Aktio with its Venetian castle, seaside Vonitsa, and Amfilohia, amphitheatrically situated on the slopes of two hills, looking towards Arta.