Region & Activities

Discover Karpathos Island

Karpathos is one of Greece’s most authentic islands, renowned for its breathtaking and dramatic landscapes, crystal-clear waters, and rich local traditions. From unspoiled beaches to charming mountain villages, the island offers a perfect balance of relaxation and adventure, making it a paradise for travelers seeking natural beauty, outdoor activities, and genuine Greek hospitality.

Beaches

The island is famous for its stunning beaches, ranging from organized sandy beaches to remote coves:

  • Apella beach
  • Kyra Panagia
  • Achata beach (near Aperi village)
  • Lefkos and Frangolimionas beaches (near Mesochori village)
  • Agios Nikolaos beach – Spoa
  • Diakoftis (near the airport)
  • Araki beaches
  • Agios Nikolaos beach – Arkasa
  • Amoopi bay beaches (Mikri Amoopi, Megali Amoopi, Votsalakia, Kastelia)
  • Michaliou Kipos beach
  • Christou Pigadi (near the airport)
  • Damatria beach (near the airport)
  • Agios Minas beach – Olympos
  • Agios Theodoros beach (near Arkasa village, view of Kasos Island)
  • Araki beaches

Many beaches are ideal for swimming, snorkeling, and relaxation, while others attract windsurfing and kitesurfing enthusiasts from around the world.

Sea Sports & Fun Activities

The coastline offers a variety of water sports for those looking to add a little thrill to their holidays:

  • Windsurfing & kitesurfing
  • Hiking & nature trails
  • Mountain Biking
  • Scuba Diving
  • Boat trips and island excursions (beaches tour, Saria island-Palatia, Kasos island)
  • Local gastronomy and tavernas
  • Wine tasting
  • Creative Workshops – Agricultural Tours
  • Saria Island (day trip by boat, north of Karpathos)

Our team will be happy to provide recommendations or practical trips, and assist you with planning activities during your stay.

Culture & History of Karpathos

A short drive or bus ride brings you into the heart of Karpathos Island, where you’ll find a vibrant mix of history and village life. Must-visits include:

Traditional villages

  • Aperi (the former capital of Karpathos, is regarded as the island’s cultural and educational center, hosting both the General Lyceum and High School of Karpathos)
  • Volada
  • Othos
  • Pyles
  • Mesochori
  • Olympos (traditional village; accessible by car or boat from Pigadia)
  • Diafani
  • Spoa
  • Pigadia (capital of Karpathos)
  • Menetes
  • Arkasa
  • Finiki (fisherman’s village)

Cultural sightseeing & Information

  • Olympos Village
  • Ancient Vroukounta & Avlona village
  • Palatia (Pirate village) at Saria Island in the north of Karpathos
  • Limniotis Cave with stalagmites and stalactites, near Achata beach
  • Poseidon’s Temple at Pigadia
  • Chapel Of Agia Fotini (ancient ruins) at Pigadia
  • Metropolitan Cathedral of the Assumption of the Virgin Mary at Aperi village
  • Agios Ioannis church at Vroukounda
  • Archeological Museum of Karpathos at Pigadia
  • Folklore Museum at Menetes village
  • Agricultural Museum at Pyles village
  • Museum / Archeological area of Arkasa village
  • Church of Panagia Vrysiani at Mesochori village
  • Church of Agios Mammas near Menetes village
  • Church of Agios Georgios near Lefkos beach
  • Church of Agios Loukas near Apella beach
  • Information centre of protected areas (Natura 2000, Monachus monachus seals) at Diafani village
  • Roman Cistern near Lefkos

Olympos Village

Perched high in the mountains, Olympos is one of the most traditional villages in Greece and a living cultural monument. With its distinctive architecture, centuries-old customs, traditional dress still worn daily, and unique local dialect, a visit to Olympos feels like a journey back in time and is considered an essential experience in Karpathos.

Cave Church of Agios Loukas

Hidden within a natural cave near Apella Beach, the church of Agios Loukas once served as a refuge from pirate raids. Its historic frescoes and cavernous setting offer a rare glimpse into the island’s religious and defensive past.

Poseidon’s Temple

Known locally as Poseidon’s Temple, this site near Pigadia is actually a natural cave with archaeological significance rather than a classical temple structure. Freely accessible and largely unmarked, it offers an interesting stop for visitors curious about Karpathos’ ancient heritage.

Hike Through Traditional Villages

Follow scenic paths connecting mountain villages (Aperi, Volada, Othos) and coastal settlements (Olympos, Avlona), passing through olive groves, chapels, and landscapes shaped by centuries of island life.

Visit the Museums of Karpathos

Discover the island’s history, folklore, and agricultural traditions through small but insightful museums located in villages such as Pigadia, Menetes, Pyles, and Arkasa.

Explore Ancient & Natural Landmarks

From archaeological sites and Roman cisterns to caves, chapels, and protected natural areas, Karpathos offers a rich blend of history and nature waiting to be explored.