ISLAND

Karpathos: The island keeps the tradition alive

It is mentioned by Homer in Iliada and the incomparable natural beauty attracted many conquerors in the past. Karpathos is the second largest island in the Dodecanese and lies between Crete and Rhodes. According to legend, the first inhabitants, stole the Olympian gods and got them there. For this reason, they named Arpatheoi and later Carpathians.

The contrasts play in the island, since half is inaccessible while the other half is rich and inviting. The imposing mountains are reaching up to 1220m. and at the other hand the plains and valleys blend seamlessly with the magical landscape that unfolds around. The picturesque ports, the rich vegetation, its crystal waters and streets beckon visitors and offer images that can capture the imagination. Tourism is growing slowly, so the place is still authentic. But there are several places of entertainment.

You can stay in traditional and luxurious hotel rooms, apartments and studio. For funs of camping there are several organised but we suggest free camping, because the nature of Karpathos unfolds its beauty.

Tour: Mountains surround the green valleys

The island is divided into twelve villages built on mountain slopes or around the picturesque bays.
Tradition, fun and history, are the keywords for Pigadia, the capital, which is the main port. The new houses, built by American tourists, are contradicting the strictly traditional character of the island. You can visit the cave of Poseidon, the ancient citadel of Posidio and the ruins of an early Christian basilica of Saint Fotini. Most bars and clubs are located here and they are open till late.

The old capital, Aperi, is a village invisible from the sea. The stream that crosses impressed with the lush vegetation. The panoramic views offered by "Koraki", the top of the ancient Acropolis hill is unique.
The brass ship, dedicated to the heroes of the German occupation, the Byzantine ruins of St. Anastasia and Palaiokastro are in the coastal Arkasa and attract the interest.

Karpathos was the centre of the Mycenaean world. In Diafani, the second port, was found the Mycenaean tomb, the findings of which are exhibited at the British Museum.

Signs with fines for those who don’t keep the place clean, someone will find at the village of cleanliness and beauty. Preserved old houses stand proudly alongside classic. The history of the village is linked with that of Crete.

Authentic and traditional architecture, narrow streets leading to stone stairs, fountains with cold water, are forming the picture of Mesochori. The picturesque village with its traditions and festivals is renowned for their hospitality and warmth.

Clean air and views of the Aegean offers Othos, the highest point of Karpathos. You'll find restaurants with local meats and you will be able to participate in local celebrations. It houses the folklore museum, worth visiting.
On an inaccessible rock, is built Olympus, the most traditional part of the island. It looks like a living folk museum, since it seems that the village was left behind in time and intact to the evolution of culture. Customs and traditions are part of everyday life, women wear colourful costumes and carpathian dialect is incomprehensible to visitors. The people are warm and hearty, ready to integrate visitors to the way of their lives.

Beaches: Pure water in magical landscapes, hidden behind rocks

They have been awarded with the blue flag due organization, safety and cleanliness, flow across the eastern side. Paths with pine and resources, are leading to steep coves and crystal clear waters.

The most remarkable coasts are in Lefko. The most fashionable is “Gialou horafi”, umbrellas, sun beds and restaurants nearby. Below is the beach “Panagias limani”, with sand and then we find the "Fragolimnionas" which is the largest of the three, but also the more impressive because the organization is excellent.

Apelles is the most popular beach on the island of Karpathos and accessed by boat from the capital. The clear blue waters deepen abruptly and decorate the sand scattered with pebbles. In the background raises the pine hill, which seems to embrace the sea.
Popular is the beach of "Kira Panayias" with its rich in sand and rocks.

“Ammos”, which is relatively small and well organized, "Afoti" with its wonderful sandy beach and "Thunder” are located in Pigadia.
Other notable beaches are "Votsalakia" the most beautiful and cosmopolitan, the "Ammoopis" with golden sand, the "Kastelia", with the dreaming landscape. Quiet is the "beach of diamartiria”.

Karpathos can be classified as the island of surfers since the winds promote the sport and the structure of coastline is helpful. "Vata", "Valia" and "Punta Nikolaki are ideal for those who want to have windsurfing.
It is worth visiting beaches "Diakoftis" and "Michalis garden”, both surrounded by dreamy landscapes.