Karpathos

Essential information about Karpathos island

Karpathos, is an island of the South Dodecanese islands which offers an extraordinary variety of natural landscapes and a deep immersion in cultural traditions. The beauty of its beaches and the authenticity of its villages make the island an unmissable destination for those seeking an authentic and fascinating travel experience.

Describing the sea of ​​Karpathos is not easy: every beach on the island releases a unique emotion. From white sandy beaches to hidden rocky coves, the island offers breathtaking scenery that can satisfy every type of visitor. Whether you are looking for a corner of uncontaminated paradise or an equipped beach where you can relax with all the comforts, Karpathos always has something special to offer.

The true soul of Karpathos, however, is found in its traditional villages, still tied to a simple lifestyle. Squeezed between the high mountains of the northern part, Olympos is one of the most beautiful villages in Greece, a place where folklore and popular traditions manifest themselves in all their authenticity.

Walking through the streets of this village in the clouds is like taking a journey through time. Every corner, every face tells a story of a time when life was simpler but full of meaning. The village is known for its hospitality and for the way it has preserved an indissoluble bond with the past, making it one of the most fascinating places not only in Karpathos but in all of Greece.

Those who visit Karpathos will immerse themselves in a variety of experiences that go beyond the classic beach holiday. Every beach, every village has something unique to offer, and taking the time to discover these places is the best way to appreciate the true essence of the island. Adventure, relaxation, culture or simply natural beauty: Karpathos is an island that never disappoints!

Famous for its steep mountains and bays bathed in deep blue sea, this elongated rocky island is one of the most authentic places in all of Greece.

Karpathos is practically divided into two geographically and culturally distinct areas. The southern part of the island is more frequented by tourists and lively, with many sandy, windless beaches and some coastlines where water sports competitions are held annually.

The northern part, being more mountainous, is less accessible and deeply tied to traditions.

The Main Towns of Karpathos

Pigadia

Pigadia, also known as the City of Karpathos, is the most populous centre and the island’s main port. With around 2,000 inhabitants, this town is the hub of the island’s activities, offering a wide range of services.

Here, visitors can find a variety of restaurants, banks, supermarkets, pharmacies, and tourist and car/motorbike rental agencies, making Pigadia the ideal starting point for exploring the rest of the island. Medical care is provided by a hospital, renovated in 2019 with European Union funds. It has thirty beds and offers a variety of healthcare services, covering several specialist fields to ensure comprehensive medical coverage for both residents and visitors.

The atmosphere in Pigadia is lively but never chaotic, perfect for those seeking a balance between relaxation and convenience. Accommodation options range from luxury hotels to family-run lodgings, allowing everyone to find the option that best suits their needs.

Arkasa

Located on the southwest coast of Karpathos, Arkasa is a picturesque seaside village just 16 km from the island’s capital, Pigadia. Known for its tranquillity, it attracts visitors looking for an escape from the fast pace of everyday life.

The houses in Arkasa, typically white and adorned with vibrant pastel colours, blend harmoniously with the surrounding landscape. The village is situated on a plain that gently slopes from the mountains down to the sea, offering breathtaking views and a sense of openness and space that is hard to find in more well-known tourist spots.

The paved road connecting Arkasa to Pigadia is kept in perfect condition, making the journey to and from Arkasa pleasant and stress-free. This easy access, combined with a wide range of accommodation options, makes Arkasa ideal for both short and long stays.

Olympos

Olympos is the most treasured jewel of Karpathos in terms of cultural preservation. Nestled in the northern mountains, this village remained isolated for much of the 20th century, keeping its traditions intact. The dirt road built in 1979, later paved in 2011, opened Olympos to the outside world, but the village has managed to preserve its authentic character.

Walking through the narrow streets of Olympos is an experience that transports you back in time. The women of the village often still wear traditional clothing, and it’s not uncommon to see them engaged in household chores or preparing typical dishes from Karpathian cuisine.

These moments offer visitors an authentic immersion into the local culture, making Olympos a unique place among the Greek islands.

Despite the rise in tourism, Olympos has maintained its authentic character. The colourful houses, cobbled mule paths, intricately adorned church iconostases, and restored windmills all contribute to creating an atmosphere from another era.

The village not only preserves its historic architecture but continues to live by rhythms and customs that elsewhere have become only memories.

Olympos doesn’t just offer a glimpse into the past; it is also a place of warm hospitality. The residents are proud of their heritage and eager to share their history and traditions with visitors. This cultural exchange enriches both locals and tourists, creating an ongoing dialogue between past and present.

Top Reasons to Visit Karpathos

Karpathos may not be among the most popular tourist destinations in Greece, but it certainly should be. The island is shaped by fierce winds, with villages nestled in mountainous terrain, traditions preserved unchanged over time, ancient cities, impressive caves, and stunning – and award-winning – beaches. This is the captivating Karpathos, the second-largest island in the Dodecanese.

On one hand, there’s its rugged and dramatic landscape – its highest peaks reaching up to ,220 metres – and on the other, its rich history and vibrant traditions, offering unique experiences for visitors.

The breathtaking village of Olympos is one of the island’s most impressive settlements, perched between two hills. Its history dates back to the 9th century.

But it’s not the only place where Karpathos’ rich past is reflected in the present. The island boasts numerous attractions that take visitors on a journey through its history: the ruins of the ancient cities of Vrykous and Arkesia, the Castle and ancient acropolis of Aperi – the island’s former capital – early Christian churches, the Roman cistern at Lefkos, rock-cut tombs in Karpathos Town and Arkasa, and scattered traditional windmills.

Karpathos offers a blend of natural beauty, cultural richness, and recreational activities, making it an ideal destination for unforgettable summer holidays. Here we’ve gathered 20 reasons why you should add this island to your immediate summer plans!

Beautiful Beaches

Karpathos boasts pristine beaches such as Apella, Kyra Panagia, Diakofti, and Lefkos, known for their crystal-clear waters and stunning landscapes.

Traditional Villages

Visit charming villages like Olympos and Menetes, where you can experience authentic Greek culture and traditions.

Unique Festivals

Experience one of the local festivals, such as the Olympos Easter celebration, as well as various summer festivals featuring traditional music, dance, and food.

Water Sports

The island is a paradise for windsurfing and kitesurfing, especially in Afiarti, known for its ideal wind conditions.

Scenic Hiking Trails

Explore many hiking trails that offer breathtaking views of the island’s rugged landscapes and coastline.

Rich History

Discover ancient ruins and historical sites, such as the Acropolis of Arkasa and the Roman cisterns at Lefkos.

Delicious Cuisine

Enjoy local dishes like “makarounes” (a type of handmade pasta), fresh seafood, and traditional sweets.

Warm Hospitality

Experience the warmth and friendliness of the Karpathians, renowned for their generous hospitality.

Stunning Sunsets

Watch breathtaking sunsets, particularly from the village of Olympos or the beaches on the western coast.

Untouched Nature

Experience the island’s unspoiled natural beauty, with lush landscapes, wildflowers, and diverse wildlife.

Diving and Snorkelling

Explore the underwater world around Karpathos, which offers excellent opportunities for diving and snorkelling, with abundant marine life and underwater caves.

Relaxed Atmosphere

Enjoy a laid-back and peaceful atmosphere, perfect for unwinding and escaping the hustle and bustle of daily life.

Traditional Crafts

Discover local crafts, such as pottery, weaving, and traditional costumes, which you can also buy as unique souvenirs.

Mythological Significance

Learn about the island’s mythological history, said to be the birthplace of the Titan Iapetus and associated with the god Poseidon.

Ecotourism

Engage in ecotourism activities and explore protected areas like the Olympus-Agios Minas Natural Park.

Picturesque Harbours

Visit picturesque harbours like Pigadia (the capital), where you can enjoy fresh seafood, shopping, and a lively nightlife.

Birdwatching

Karpathos is a haven for birdwatchers, with many species migrating to the island, especially in spring and autumn.

Cultural Heritage

Explore museums and cultural centres, such as the Archaeological Museum of Pigadia and the Folklore Museum of Othos.

Island Hopping

Use Karpathos as a base to travel to nearby islands such as Kasos, Saria, and Rhodes.

Adventure Activities

For adventure enthusiasts, the island offers activities like climbing, mountain biking, and paragliding for those seeking a thrill.

Getting there