Timeless customs and traditions, hospitable people always prepared to initiate you into the mysteries of their daily life, captivating natural landscapes and gorgeous beaches with crystal clear waters and translucent depths, perfect for diving into. Located between Rhodes and Crete, outlying the classic island hopping and tourist routes, Karpathos could be compared to a message in a bottle: it floats in the Aegean and whoever finds it is lucky.
The village of Olympos could easily be made into the cultural capital of the Dodecanese, as it looks like a vibrant folk museum. It is an isolated settlement set in a wild landscape, with admirable architecture, a reputation for weaving and a rich musical tradition that has been passed down from one generation to the next for centuries.
The island’s mountain slopes are adorned with dozens of windmills, some of which are still in use today, as well as chapels belonging to village families. In the narrow streets, stone ovens stand out, where women dressed in their traditional costumes prepare delectable baked goods for their households. Men in the village coffee shops create small parties where they sing impromptu ‘mandinades’ (rhyming songs) – after all, the best musicians of Karpathos, lyre players and bagpipers, hail from this village.
At the large ‘panygiri’ festivals of Olympos, local girls wear their traditional costumes in turn: the ‘kavai’ or the ‘sakofoustano’ (for the younger ones) along with their ‘kolaina’, which are golden coins embroidered into the fabric: these are usually inherited by the eldest daughters from their mother.
Olympos was built in this rather inaccessible place between the 7th to 9th centuries by the inhabitants of Vroukounta and Saria. Its high location allowed inhabitants to monitor the area for potential pirate attacks and remain protected within the castle, remnants of which are preserved to this day.
Through their sheer determination and industriousness, Olympos’ inhabitants overcame the challenges of the remote landscape they resided in, managing to become autonomous and inventively utilising the resources provided by the land and sea.
Selected Beaches
Apella
It is considered the most beautiful beach on the island and one of the best in all the Mediterranean, with significant international distinctions. The pine-clad mountain and the sea with turquoise waters create unforgettable surroundings, and the crystal-clear seabed is ideal for diving and snorkelling. There are umbrellas, sunbeds, and a taverna.
Diafani
This charming seaside settlement located east of Olympos is an ideal choice for quiet holidays in a hospitable environment. Its beach has pebbles, crystal-clear waters, umbrellas and sunbeds. You’ll find an abundance of fresh fish in the tavernas. Diakoftis can be reached from Karpathos’s main town daily by boat.
Amoopi
The beach with the peculiar name is famous for its wonderful blue-green waters and is ideal for families. It is organised, with water sports facilities, tavernas, hotels and rooms to rent.
Kyra Panagia
Visitors can’t resist taking pictures at Kyra Panagia. It’s located in a bay between two mountains and has white-golden sand and sapphire waters. The small settlement has a few rooms and tavernas and during the summer months a day boat comes from the main town (Pigadia).
Lefkos
The small and beautiful seaside village has developed into a tourist destination. There are three beautiful beaches with white sand: Yialou Chorafi, which is organised and has tavernas, Panagias to Limani and the extensive Frangolimniona beach. On the northern side, the islet of Sokastro is a short distance away.
Achata
Surrounded by lush mountains, it is ideal for a peaceful swim. It has white pebbles, sand and deep waters and is located near Pigadia. It’s easy to reach by car.
Diving into wonderful waters
Karpathos is an exciting destination for diving aficionados. With crystal clear waters that you can see deep into, caves, old and newer shipwrecks and abundant underwater life, it’s also great for snorkelling. In Pigadia you’ll find a a diving centre with skilled staff who can guide you to discover the island’s thrilling underwater landscapes. Among other things, they organise dives into the rift of Kastelia Bay, the wreck of the ship Dias that sank in 1988 and the Labyrinth. (www.divingkarpathos.gr)
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