Dodecanese

"The Jerusalem of the Aegean" or Holy island is one way of describing Patmos island. Patmos is distinguished for its beaches and for its imposing 11th century Monastery which is the island's most important landmark. Patmos, situated between Leros and Ikaria, is a mountainous island with rocky soil and an abundance of small coves. The majestic fortress - monastery crowns the hill above the port, surrounded by dazzling white, cube-like houses which spill down its flanks and form the town of Chora. Skala the island's harbor, is a lively place with its white houses, flowered courtyards, fish tavernas, hotels, restaurants, cafes and shops.

Leipsoi is a beautiful island of the Dodecanese island group, located between Patmos and Leros. Thanks to its small size, lack of mass tourism and long distance from Athens, it has emerged as a peaceful destination for relaxing holidays away from the hustle and the bustle. Leipsoi stands out for its unspoiled natural landscape, crystal clear waters, beautiful secluded beaches, and laid-back atmosphere. It’s an ideal holiday destination for those who seek relaxation and privacy! The beaches are the highlights of the island. Most of them are unorganized, boasting a raw natural landscape and laid-back atmosphere. All of them, though, have mesmerizing crystal clear waters, ideal for swimming!

Leros like most of the Greek islands is an island of small fertile valleys sandwiched between rolling green hills, deep coves and pretty beaches. In Leros the visitor finds a hospitable environment with all the comforts. He enjoys the charming seaside villages, countless beaches and he discovers the small isolated sandy beaches, hidden amongst the surrounding rocky land. Apart from the physical beauty that Leros offers to the visitor, there are also plenty of activities for entertainment. There are museums that one can visit and many archaeological sights which are of interest. In Leros, away from the noisy towns and the stressful pace of life and even further away from crowed large tourist areas, the visitor finds the peace and recreation he is looking for.

Kalymnos is the fourth largest island in the Dodecanese. The Kalymnian landscape is rocky, its majestic mountain slopes fragrant with thyme, sage and oregano – essential ingredients in the delicious honey for which the island is famous. Fertile valleys offer pleasing contrast, especially Vathi with its turquoise fiord and peaceful groves of citrus fruit. Kalymnos is best known as home of the world’s finest sponge divers. The sea has always been a focal point for island life and its colorful traditions and sense of community remain almost unchanged. Picturesque landscapes for walking, clear blue seas for snorkeling or scuba-diving, rock faces of unique quality for climbing and a warm-hearted hospitality are just some of the pleasures that await the visitor.

Kos is the second most popular island of Dodecanese, after Rhodes. Known for its historical sites, beautiful beaches, and lush vegetation, Cos is visited by almost 1 million tourists every year! Kos has a 5,000 years long history and has been influenced by many cultures, such as the Romans, the Venetians, the medieval Knights, and the Ottomans. Thanks to the remains of all these cultures, sightseeing is one of the best things to do in Kos. What can we say about Kos beaches? They are endless! Sandy, shingle, crowded, secluded, organized, unorganized… There’s a beach for every taste and they are all easily accessible. Don’t miss to visit some of the best Kos beaches, such as Kardamena beach, Tigaki beach, Mastichari beach, Marmari beach, and Kefalos beach.

Nisyros is situated at the centre of the Dodecanese island complex. It lies between the islands of Kos and Tilos and the promontory of Knidos of Asia Minor. Nisyros has an almost circular shape and therefore its coastline is not rich in geophysical formations. It is comprised of mountains which have originated from volcanic activity while the huge volcanic caldera, of length 2400 m and width 950 meters, situated at the centre of the island attests to its volcanic past. Thermal springs are found at many points on Nissiros, the most well known of which are located a short distance from Mandraki. The capital of Nisyros is Mandraki which boasts, whitewashed houses, colorful narrow lanes and the beautiful piazza "Ilikiomeni". The town has a small folklore museum with interesting exhibitions.

This picturesque tiny island stands out for its traditional architecture, peaceful atmosphere and secluded beaches. The capital of Chalki is Nimporio, a picturesque little village that stretches around the island’s port. Its secluded location has shaped it up to be one of the best destinations for relaxing holidays! The main town of Chalki is Nimporio, where the port of the island is also located. The seafront of Nimporio is lined up with cafeterias, restaurants, and shops, while it is the best place to enjoy long walks by the sea.

The island of Symi must be one of the most charming places to visit on a boat holiday. Symi has the most beautiful harbour in Greece The harbor is a colorful area filled with boats in all shapes, colors and sizes. The pastel Venetian style houses in the many shades of pastels across the hills, the local tavernas, local shops, historical places of interest, the views and hospitality all combined make Symi a must-see island in the Dodecanese.. There has been virtually no modern concrete construction here and now these fine old houses are being resurrected for visitors. The spirit of the island remains intact. Aristocratic and far off the model of mass tourism, Symi pleasantly surprises its visitors with its plain, aristocratic yet wild beauty.