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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.

Island Kastri and ruins on Kos, GreeceKos 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.

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

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.

Beach Potami in island Samos, Dodecanese Islands, GreeceSamos 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.

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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.Anthony Quinn Bay, Rhodes, Dodecanese Islands, 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.

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