Aegean Islands — Beachcomber Pete Travel Adventures

Kythnos, Greece

Kythnos is a Greek island, approximately 100 kilometers from Piraeus, the harbor city of Athens. Until recently, Kythnos has had few foreign visitors as many travelers opt for the more famous and popular Santorini, Crete, or Mykonos. However, with history going back to the Mesolithic Era, Kythnos has a wealth of rich culture.

The quaint village of Chora sits atop a hill as a stunning example of Greek architecture. With its white stone houses, modest churches, and narrow cobblestone streets, Chora is a gem to explore. Kythnos is well-known for its delicious capers, olive oil, and almond cookies in addition to the typical Greek seafood cuisine. Chora offers an abundance of restaurants to choose from, all serving fresh fish and seafood.

Outside of Chora is Loutra, a town famous for its hot springs, which some locals believe have healing water. Dryopida is another small town near Chora and is famous for the Kataphyki cave, one of the biggest caves in Greece. Dryopida is also home to the fascinating Folklore Museum of Kythnos.

Merichas, the island’s main port, bustles with activity. Hotels, restaurants, and coffee shops can be easily found along with luxury and entertainment. Despite being a port town, the surrounding waters are clear and blue, appropriate for both swimming and fishing. Merichas also has a vibrant nightlife with its bars and taverns. Vryokastro, the ancient capital of Kythnos, is very close by with ruins of Roman buildings, temples, and altars to explore. The church of Panagia Flambouriani is also worth a visit.

Kythnos has more than 50 beaches, though some are more difficult to reach than others. The best beaches to visit are Kolona, Apokrousi, Skylou, and Potamia. Each offers calm waves, white sand, and most of all, peace and quiet. Most beaches are accessible by scooter or foot. The most unconventional and adventurous way, however, is by parachute. Kolona, which is arguably Kythnos’ most beautiful beach, is popular because it is a narrow strip of land with waves lapping on both sides. Kolona is reasonably close to Merichas, and the pleasant hike along the coast should not be missed. During the months of June to September, Kythnos is at its peak of perfect weather. Days are warm and sunny, making great visits to the secluded beaches.

Kythnos being just a short 100 miles from Athens, makes getting to Greece’s largest city from several European destinations a easy way to find you enjoying that Greek vacation in no time.

Filed Under: Aegean Islands, Aegean Sea, Athens, featured, Greece, Kythnos

Kos Island, Greece

Located in the south-eastern Aegean Sea between Kalymnos and Nisyros, the island of Kos, Greece is a beautiful and exciting place to visit. Full of history, culture, fun night life, shopping and dining opportunities, and relaxing beaches, Kos provides for a perfect island getaway.

Kos Island is the third largest island among the Dodecanese Islands of Greece. Since prehistoric times, Kos has provided an important channel of the sea from the Black Sea to North Africa and also happens to be the birthplace of the famous healer Hippocrates. There are numerous unique and beautiful villages in Kos in which to experience the culture and history of the island. Some of these villages include Zia, Kos Town, Antimachia, and Kardemena.

Kos Island enjoys a temperate, Mediterranean climate. Summers in Kos are normally hot and dry with very little rain. The winters are mild and there is plenty of sunshine and low humidity year-round.

There are over 20 spectacular and gorgeous beaches with crystal clear water and soft sand at which to enjoy some relaxing time in the warm sun. Many of the beaches have fine black sand, courtesy of the volcanic activity that has happened in and around the island over the years. Some beaches in the area of Kos include Mastichari, Thermes, Lambi, Marmari, and Paradise. Watersports, parasailing, snorkeling, and similar activities can be enjoyed at most of the beaches on Kos Island.

Opportunities to enjoy exciting night life on Kos Island are plentiful. Many types of music are featured at the various bars and clubs on the island and dancing is very popular, sometimes occurring all the way through the night and into the morning. The most popular spot to enjoy the night life is in the island’s capital of Kos Town.

When visiting Kos Island, Greece, be sure to check out the many interesting points of interest to further catch a glimpse of the history and culture of the area. Asklepieion is an archaeological site that was once a healing center in ancient times. Nerantzia Castle, or “Castle of the Knights”, is a castle that was built by the Knights of Saint John in the fourteenth century. Another great site to see is the amazingly well-preserved Roman Odeon, which is similar to the Colosseum from ancient Rome and was constructed in the second century BC.

Filed Under: Aegean Islands, Aegean Sea, Dodecanese Islands, Europe, featured, Greece, Kos Island

Kastelorizo Island, Greece

Situated in the azure waters of the southern Mediterranean Sea, off the coast of Turkey, 72 miles east of Rhodes, beautiful Kastelorizo Island, Greece, is the smallest island in the Dodecanese chain. It offers the traveler delightful Anatolian architecture, panoramic views of the harbor, a rich culture, peaceful people and abundant relaxation.

The island was once called Megisti in times dating back to ancient inhabitants. The name means the largest, as it was the largest island among small rock-like formations surrounding it. Located just two miles off the coast of Lycia, now a village of Turkey, it has been inhabited since the Neolithic period. It was colonized by the Dorian Greeks and was ruled by Rhodes for many years, unill it broke away. The Egyptians, Italians and others all played a role in the history of the island. At the close of the 19th century, Kastelorizo had a flourishing trade, with ships trading goods from Anatolia with those of Egypt. Moreover, a population of 10,000 made their home in this safe harbor.

The Paris Peace Treaties in 1947 gave Kastelorizo to Greece; in recent years more and more tourists have come to explore the isolation, beauty and quiet ambiance. Kastelorizo was the setting for the movie Mediterraneo by Gabriele Salvatores, which won an Oscar and made it a more popular tourist destination.

With a rich history and tradition of the various cultures that have marked its civilizations, Kastelorizo Island offers the visitor an array of museums and sites. The Castle of the Knights is one place to see; it dates back to the 14th century; Palaiokastro is the oldest site on the island and the location of neolithic tools, ruins of ancient buildings and more; located under the Castle is the Lycean tomb, found at the port entrance; moreover, visitors should not miss the archaeological Museum.

As far as natural geoglogical formations, travelers can enjoy an amazing site; it is the famous Aqua-colored Cave. Known also as the Parastas hole or Fokiali (from the word seals), its calm blue green waters provide panoramic views and a magical presence. Stalactites and numerous pigeons, as well as seals, welcome the traveler to this palace of nature, known for a fairy tale setting.

Buses, taxis, motorcycles, rental cars are all found here as well as small boats. Kastelorizo, a Greek paradise, will make you feel welcome.

Filed Under: Aegean Islands, Aegean Sea, Europe, featured, Greece, Kastelorizo Island, Rhodes

Samos Island, Greece

The beautiful, green island of Samos is nestled among the Dodecanese Island group within the East Aegean Sea. This island paradise has long been known as a cultural center, home to some of the most well-known and respected philosophers and mathematicians. In mythology, Samos was the birthplace of Hera and a temple built in her honor stands proudly, serving as a place where visitors marvel at its size and stature. When traveling to Samos Island, be prepared to take in all of the finer aspects of life on one amazing and unforgettable journey.

Samos Island is home to many vineyards offering the finest locally made wines. Fragrant and sweet wine is one of the specialties of winemakers in the region, with some choices being Samos Nectar, Samos Vin Doux, even communion wine is made on the island of Samos. For wine lovers who prefer dry wine to its sweet counterparts, consider trying a Chrisi Samaina, or the dry rose Selana.

There are many fine bars and restaurants located along the seaside, waiting for hungry visitors to partake in their many specialties. For those seeking something casual and relaxed, traditional cafes and ouzeri are plentiful.

No matter the type of accommodations a traveler seeks, Samos Island has exactly what is desired. Samos is home to some breathtaking five star hotels, including the Proteas Blu Resort and the Doryssa Seaside Resort. Both of these hotels and many others on the island are modern and contemporary in design with the classic comforts Samos Island accommodations hold a fabulous reputation for.

From touring museums to wading in pristine waters on Mediterranean beaches, there are attractions to suit the interests of any Samos visitor. Hike through a cavern to see an historic monastery, take photographs of the temple of Hera, tour ancient ruins, and relax on the beautiful Tsamadu Beach.

The island of Samos is a very temperate and enjoyable vacation spot. Temperatures reach an average high of 89 degrees F in the heart of summer, and an average low of 43 degrees F in the cold month of February. For those traveling to Greece in the spring or fall, it is best to bring clothing for warm and cool weather, as the temperatures can be variable.

Filed Under: Aegean Islands, Aegean Sea, Agathonisi Island, Dodecanese Islands, featured, Greece, Patmos, Samos Island

Dodecanese Islands, Greece

The Dodecanese Islands in Greece are a traveler’s paradise. There is a little of everything to be found there. History and archaeology go hand in hand in some of the marvelous digs. Stunning, out of the way places are yet to be discovered, and the sunniest beaches in the world are waiting.

Rhodes

Located in the crossroads of numerous cultures, many different peoples have populated this island down through history. From the Phoenicians to the Ottoman Turks, and other nations in between, Rhodes has been involved in the history of Greece.

Visit the military hospital of the Medieval City of Rhodes. It was founded during the Crusades. Note the strong fortifications that were constructed during that time. Then, the Ottoman Turks took over, and the city became a mix of architectural styles including the Jewish Museum.

Patmos

The Island of Patmos is best known for the cave where St. John the Apostle lived while he wrote the book of Revelation. Patmos is covered with monasteries and churches that all have histories to discover.

Patmos boasts a host of lovely beaches. Kambos Beach is a favorite place for families. The warm shallow water is perfect for the little ones, and there are restaurants, accommodations and water sports.

Kastelorizo

This is the island where people go for a non-crowded, laid back vacation. Access is limited; visitors arrive by boat or plane. World War II and earthquakes destroyed a number of ancient houses, but residents are motivated to rebuild them due to the growing number of visitors to the Island. There are not many great beaches, but the ones they do have boast almost perfectly clear water and good swimming.

The ruins of the ancient capital of Kastelorizo, Palaiokastro, are worth seeing. An early Doric fortress there has a third century inscription on a gate and an acropolis.

Kastelorizo also has some outstanding eateries where visitors can sample the local cuisine. You can find meat, fish and national meals.

Kos

Kos is second only to Rhodes for visitors and tourists. The third largest island of the Dodecanese, Kos is also one of the most fertile islands. From beaches to accommodations, and from restaurants to history, there are such a variety of things for visitors to see and do in Kos. Shopping is another attraction including many local crafts, honey and wine. Don’t leave the island without tasting their specialty, cheese baked with red wine.

Filed Under: Aegean Islands, Aegean Sea, Agathonisi Island, Dodecanese Islands, Europe, featured, Greece, Patmos, Rhodes

Agathonisi Island, Greece

Located in the Dodecanese Island group in the Aegean Sea, the Agathonisi Island, Greece is a tiny precious gem that not many tourists know, but those who do, prefer it, as it offers them the opportunity to forget about their worries, relax and enjoy themselves.

Agathonisi was occupied by Italian troops and become liberated after the Second World War. It gets its name from the Greek word ‘’Agathos’’ which means gullible and is often called ‘’The Island Of Fools’’ or ‘’The Island Of The Good-Hearted’’.

To get to Agathonisi, you can take the ferry either from Samos (it will take approximately an hour) or alternatively from Patmos (it will take approximately two hours). Ferries are available four times a week, making it easy for tourists to travel to and from the island. As there is no local transport in Agathonisi, in order to get to the Megalo Horio, (the main town), you will have to walk a 1.5km distance from the small, cute village of Agios Georgios.

The biggest as well as the oldest settlement in Agathonisi is Megalo Horio, with 100 inhabitants. While quiet most of the time, during various religious festivals in the island, the village seems to wake up. If you want to enjoy that, you should visit the island in July and August and specifically during the festivals of Agiou Panteleimonos (26th July), Sotiros (6th August) and Panagias (22nd August).

On the other hand, if what you are looking for is some quiet time alone, then you can visit the small harbour of Katholiko, in order to see the inhabited and unapproachable islet of Neronisi. There are also some lovely, quiet beaches on the east of the island; some of the best are Poros Beach, Tholos Beach and Tsangari Beach.

As far as nightlife is concerned, there are only a few cute taverns and cafes at the island that you can go to. Considering the few inhabitants as well as the estimated 800 tourists that visit the island every year, this is not bad at all. If what you are looking for is to spend some quiet, quality time with your partner, a few close friends, or even yourself, you will certainly have a good time.

If you are in the mood for shopping, in Megalo Chorio you will find several souvenirs like handmade ceramics, postcards and wine at reasonable prices.

Since Agathonisi is recommended for relaxation, bring over some good books, CDs, a fishing rod (the inhabitants live mainly off fishing) and some good athletic shoes (the roads are ideal for walking). It is for certain that you will not be disappointed.

Filed Under: Aegean Islands, Aegean Sea, Agathonisi Island, featured, Greece, Patmos

Milos, Greece

Milos is one of Greece’s more sought-after island destinations, with white washed buildings perched on steep cliffs, plentiful beaches, ancient historical sites, and Mediterranean beauty.

An ancient volcano between Athens and Crete, Milos is not big, only 14 miles wide and 8 miles long with 4,700 residents. It is a mountainous island thanks to its volcanic past, with steep crater walls disappearing into its deep water harbor and an uneven landscape. It’s highest point is Mount Profitis Elias, 2,454 feet.

Milos is a typical Cyclades Island in that despite the plentiful blue waters surrounding it, it has a fairly dry and arid climate. This results in an absence of lush vegetation. However, the temperatures are mild year-round and there is plenty of sunshine.

In ancient times, Milos was known for its obsidian, a black volcanic glass that is still plentiful on the island. Ancient settlements on the island, including the old city of Milos, thrived on this industry. The main village now is Plaka, located on a plateau above the harbor. Adamas is the port city and main entrance to the island. Several famous artworks have been discovered on Milos, including a statue of Aphrodite, the goddess of love.

There are two ways to get to the island of Milos: by airplane via the Milos National Airport, or by boat from another island or the mainland. The direct boat service from Athens takes 5 hours and is the cheapest. High speed boat service is expensive but can be as swift as 2.5 hours. Airplane trips from Athens are only 30 minutes long and several direct small-plane flights go to Milos each day.

Diving, horseback riding and yachting are all popular activities on Milos. Mediterranean waters are known for their cobalt and turquoise hues and marine life abounds near the shore. Sandy beaches make for memorable horseback rides and, for those who prefer life above the waves, sailing or canoeing is available. The towns on Milos also have a vibrant shopping, music and restaurant culture.

Some of Milos’ major attractions include archaeological sites, like the ancient city of Klima with its Roman theater and the prehistoric settlement of Fylakopi. There are also early Christian catacombs on the island. The northern part of Milos contains a geological wonder, Sarakiniko, a moonscape-like shoreline with water- and wind-carved volcanic rocks that jut out into the Mediterranean Sea. It is one of the most photographed places in the Greek islands.

Filed Under: Aegean Islands, Aegean Sea, Athens, Crete, Cyclades Islands, featured, Greece, Milos

Delos, Greece

For fans of history and archeology, Delos, Greece is one of the best places to go in Greece. It was a very important center of culture for the ancient Greeks. They believed that the island was the birthplace of both Apollo and Artemis, so they revered it as a holy site. They built numerous temples here and held many religious ceremonies.

Located in the Greek Cyclades archipelago in the Aegean Sea, Delos is covered with historic ruins and archeological sites. Visitors who come here will be able to enjoy some of the best archeological attractions in the country. Some of the most prominent include the three temples of Apollo, the Altar of Dionysus, the Lion Terrace, House of Dionysus, Cleopatra’s House and a theater that had seating for 5,000 ancient Greeks.

Besides taking in all of the impressive ruins on Delos, visitors should take the time to explore the Museum of Delos. It holds many impressive artifacts that span the ages of Greek history. There are artifacts from the Archaic, Classical, Roman and Hellenistic ages, many of which are stunning in their beauty. The Museum of Delos is an attraction that should not be missed while visitors are on Delos.

Visitors to Delos will find the climate very pleasing no matter what time of year they come. The days are very warm and the nights are cool with the seas breezes. The island gets plenty of sunshine. This region of the Mediterranean can get very windy at times. Sometimes the ferries that service Delos get cancelled due to these strong winds. Therefore, visitors should leave themselves extra time to make any connections they need to catch when they leave the island.

Most visitors will find that a day or two is enough to explore everything that Delos has to offer. There are not a lot of activities to do on the island other than checking out all of the fantastic ruins and artifacts. It can be pleasant just to walk around the island. Taking a picnic lunch and siting on a cliffside overlooking the ocean is always pleasant.

One of the most enjoyable activities on the island is to hike up Mount Kynthos. This large mountain does not attract a lot of visitors, so you can escape from the crowds. When you make it to the summit of Mount Kynthos, you will be rewarded with an amazing view that shows many of the other surrounding islands.

Filed Under: Aegean Islands, Aegean Sea, Cyclades Islands, Delos, featured, Folegandros, Greece

Karavostasi, Greece

Located on Folegandros a tiny Cyclades Island in the Aegean Sea, Karavostasi, Greece is reputed to be unspoiled and authentically Greek. This small village is the main port on Folegandros Island. It’s refreshing to see all the colorful fishing boats and yachts with a backdrop of whitewashed buildings and arid landscape. It is an ideal destination for those who want to vacation in beautiful surroundings, to relax, to wander aimlessly on hillsides and enjoy beautiful and clean beaches.

Karavostasi is one of three tiny villages on Folegandros Island. It is the port of entry to the village. Ferries run from Athens several days a week. The entire island is only 12 sq. miles with only about 700 local inhabitants. The fishing boats moored in the harbor are available to take visitors to beaches that are unreachable by foot. Karavostasi and the other two villages are connected by a paved road.

Throughout the village of Karavostasi, the stunning style of architecture is amazing. The buildings are designed in the traditional Cycladic architectural style with glistening whitewashed buildings and houses that are all quite uniform looking. White flights of stairs and multicolored windows accentuate the buildings. Picturesque narrow lanes and archways add to the village scene.

Tourist amenities are available in the village. A few good fish taverns and cafes are easy to find. Grocery stores, bakeries, rental shops and other shops for necessities are also available. There are a number of hotel accommodations in the village. One is a luxury hotel built in a contemporary style that was adapted from the traditional whitewashed style of architecture. It overlooks Karavostasi Bay and provides a gorgeous view.

Somewhat of a novelty is the nudist beach not far from Karavostasi. Other beaches nearby have sandy sea bottoms. The water is calm, shallow and clean, and displays beautiful shades of blue. The beaches are ideal for families.

Since Folegandros Island is small, it is easy to get out and explore the sights. Take an excursion to Chora, which was a walled medieval town. It’s a beautiful compact town with three lovely squares, whitewashed homes, and twisting paths and alleys. Above the town is the old Pangia church, just a short walk up the hill. From the church, there is a beautiful view of the beaches and the sea.
Mild winters and warm summer characterize the weather here, with lots of sun and little rain – just perfect for vacations. At times, a summer wind, called Meltemi, blows through the islands – it’s great for sailing.

Filed Under: Aegean Islands, Aegean Sea, Cyclades Islands, Europe, featured, Folegandros, Greece, Karavostasi

Folegandros, Greece

Folegandros is a beautiful and untouched Cyclades Island is Greece. The island is thought to be named after the son of Minos, a past king of Crete; however, historians have different opinions on how the island got its name. The first residents of Folegandros were the Carians. The Cretans and the Dorians followed. From 1900 to 1970, banished Crete prisoners took refuge on the island. These prisoners developed a friendly working relationship with the locals. During the last 30 years, tourism has improved on the island; therefore, many people are choosing to take a vacation to Folegandros.

The island is quiet and peaceful and is home to clear waters, white homes and crooked streets. It contains rocky cliffs and secluded beaches. One of the most popular activities on the island is fishing. The island boasts three villages, Chora, Karavostasi and Ano Meria. The Church of the Virgin Mary is a popular attraction on the island. The church possesses an image that has been known to conduct miracles. The island also is home to a medieval castle. The castle contains houses and churches.

In Karavostasi you will find a mysterious cave that is believed to have been a worship place for Apollo and Artemis. While on the island, you can also enjoy snorkeling or hiking. Some people just like to relax and enjoy the scenery. You can take a boat trip around the island.

The Greek food in Folegandros is excellent. You can find casual restaurants, or you can find fancy places to eat. Some people like to relax in the taverns. Numerous shops on the island sell souvenirs and hand-painted items.

While on the island, you can rent a car or a moped. It is actually easier to get around on a moped. To get to the island, you can take a ferry from one of the other islands.

The climate in Folegandros is nice and pleasant. The months of May and June tend to get a little hot; however, the winds cool off the summer months. March through September offer the best times to visit the island.

Folegandros will provide you with a tranquil and calm vacation. You can just relax on the island and leave the rest of the world behind.

Filed Under: Aegean Islands, Aegean Sea, Cyclades Islands, Europe, featured, Folegandros, Greece