Boats dotting the turquoise waters surrounding uninhabited islands, dazzling beaches with hot “sand” and afternoons spent gathering in village squares. These are just some of the experiences waiting for travelers on the wild and rocky island of Kasos in the Dodecanese. With its five charming villages, Kasos has its own unique personality that sets it apart from the other islands in the Aegean.
The day in Kasos starts early, as the harbor of Bouka comes to life with fishing boats and caiques reminiscent of a pirate harbor straight out of a movie. Locals and visitors alike start their day with morning coffee, followed quickly by tsipouro and raki.
The harbour is also the starting point for various routes, with the most popular one leading to Emporeio next to the harbour.
The old port of the island, complete with its own beach and tavernas, is a popular spot for visitors to take their first swim before heading off on their adventures. From mornings to lunchtime, Emporeio and the old port lively.
Agia Marina is the largest village on the island and boasts picturesque alleys, traditional houses, and well-kept courtyards. Arvanitochori is the next tidy village with its famous café in the square, which transforms into a souvlaki joint serving up well-cooked traditional food at night.
Finally, there’s Panagia, a small village perched above Emporeio. It’s the oldest and most mountainous of all the villages and is defined by the homonymous church. Catching the bougainvillea at the entrance of the church in bloom is like looking at a painting. Two paved roads lead to the two monasteries, Agios Giorgis and Agios Mamma, while land and sea paths take you to remote corners of the island.
What to see
Among the must-visit sites are the island’s two important monasteries, including the blue and white Agios Georgios in Chadies, which is considered the patron saint of the island, and Agios Mamas, which offers a magnificent view.
In the village of Panagia, visitors will find a complex of six churches, where according to legend, six fairies lived before they were built. The most notable of these churches is Panagia, which was built in 1770 and features unique architectural details.
The Archaeological Museum of Kasos, located in Fry, the island’s capital, is also worth a visit. The museum houses a collection of artifacts from prehistoric times to the Byzantine period, including ancient pottery, coins, and statues.
For those interested in early Christian architecture, a visit to Panagia tou Emporios is a must. This 17th-century church, located in the village of Emporio, is built on the ruins of an early Christian church and boasts a unique dome-shaped roof and bell tower. Similarly, Panagia tou Eleros, a 16th-century church located in the village of Eleros, is known for its impressive frescoes.
The Hellenokamara cave, located near the village of Poli, is another popular attraction. This large cave with stalactites and stalagmites has been inhabited since Neolithic times and has been the site of numerous archaeological discoveries.
For a stunning view of the sea and sunset, head to Agios Konstantinos, a small chapel located in the village of Antiperatos. And for a unique nighttime experience, the secluded pebble beach of Antiperatos is perfect for stargazing and night swimming.
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