A special destination that we recommend you put on your travel list immediately is Karpathos. In the southern Aegean Sea between Rhodes and Crete, the second largest island of the Dodecanese is located, with a rather "Dorian" character but at the same time hospitable.
Rocky mountain peaks reaching 1200 m. and pine forests caressing the shores. Wild landscapes but also beautiful settlements. Here your vacations take on meaning and remind you of carefree, childhood summers.
If the distance discourages you, we have good news for you as there is a flight connection from Athens with several offers (as long as you book your ticket in time). There is a ferry connection with Piraeus but be prepared for a long journey!
A large part of the island is mountainous, so it would be a good idea to rent a car in order to visit the traditional villages located nearby. Pigadia-Chora (such as Aperi, Volada, Othos, Menetes, Pyles), the coastal settlements (such as Arkasa, Finiki, Lefkos and Diafani) and the famous Olympus at the northern tip of the island.
Where to stay?
Τα Πηγάδια διαθέτουν αρκετά accommodations. Ωστόσο όπως θα διαπιστώσεις τους λείπει το παραδοσιακό στοιχείο, όπως έχουμε συνηθίσει στις χώρες των νησιών. Γι’ αυτό σου προτείνουμε να εγκατασταθείς στην κοντινή τουριστική Sandpit or in the beautiful but more remote White which are bustling with life in the summer and are a base for the surrounding beaches. If you are a fan of the traditional element, choose Aperi or Mesochori for your stay.
Where will you swim?
The island has a rich relief. Its eastern part is covered in pine trees and the beaches are large, with emerald and crystal clear waters. We recommend Achata, Kyra-Panagia and Apella which are organized and within close distance of each other.
Agios Minas is located further north and offers you peace, relaxation and privacy as this particular beach is more difficult to access.
To the west of the island the landscape changes and becomes exotic. Damatria, Diakoftis, Ai Thoros (Theodoros) and Lefkos will surely enchant you with their colors.
Olympus
Distant at the northern tip of the island stands Olympus! You will need to be patient in the car until you come across it. However, its view will take your breath away! Walk along its cobblestone streets, follow the sound of the Dodecanese lyra and the light of the sunset and if you have the opportunity, spend the night in a traditional accommodation. Here, time stops and tradition is revealed in a unique way.
Sports- Activities
For wind surfing enthusiasts, Chicken Bay beach is the ideal place. Athletes and friends of the sport from Greece and all over the world gather here to enjoy the power of the winds. There is a school where you can take lessons or rent equipment.
If you are looking for adventure in nature and an introduction to the flora and fauna of the area, then start hiking. The "Karpathos Mountain and Sea Friends Group» organizes hikes throughout the year. Contact them and find out more information.
The island is also ideal for diving. Contact us at Karpathos Diving Center in Pigadia and find out about diving lessons, excursions and equipment.
Where will you eat?
As with most less touristy islands, here too, the choices are many and good. We have tried and recommend the following and we are sure you will like them:
In Wells preferred "La Veranda", "Elliniko" and "Pigadia". In the beautiful Palm tree Enjoy traditional flavors at "Marinas" and "Mama cuisine". On the road Palm-White had lunch by the sea at "Under the trees". A must-see stop is "Eudoxias" in Permission to try macaroons. A good choice in the mountains Olympus is the "Blue Garden". Enjoy the view and food at "Poseidon" on the beach of Damatria.
Tip: If you have several days at your disposal, you can visit the island. Sharia as well as the nearby Case.
See some more photos from the island here:
