Alternative Aegean islands form the ideal setting for peaceful and relaxing holidays away from the hustle and bustle of big ports and cosmopolitan destinations.
Gazing at the deep blue sea of the Aegean, the colourful, horseshoe-shaped harbour of Kastelorizo with the restored mansions and Castello Rosso (red castle), which gave the island its name, comprise an ideal movie setting. Actually, the Oscar-awarded film “Mediterraneo” was filmed there, promoting the island’s incredible beauty and positive energy and starting an international club of fans of Kastelorizo. You can feel the island’s vibe when you walk along the picturesque pier or when you climb up the steps to the fortress- monastery of Ai-Giorgis and take in the wonderful view of the surrounding area. And you can definitely feel it when you tour the island and swim into the Blue Cave, the largest underground cave in Greece with an amazing ceiling full of stalactite formations. Don’t forget to make a stop at the islet of Ro, where the legendary “Lady of Ro” lived.
Relaxation, serenity, hospitality, peaceful and soft beaches with clear waters, a picturesque port and three small beautiful villages – Megalo Chorio, Mikro Chorio and Katholiko – await to charm you on Agathonisi. At the northern end of the Dodecanese, near Samos and Lipsi islands, this untouched paradise mainly attracts discerning travelers looking for the ultimate relaxation. If you have a boat at your disposal, it is worth visiting the nearby islets of Glaros, Nero, Psathonisi, Stroggylo, Prasso and Kouneli.
Away from traffic and crowds, another island that boasts extreme peace is Arki. A popular destination for those who want to explore the eastern Aegean by boat, this island offers untouched beaches, among which the famous Tiganakia islets with turquoise waters that give you the impression you’re swimming in a pool. The hiking lovers can climb up the mountain next to “Chora” and enjoy spectacular views to the Aegean next to the most picturesque and famous church of Arki, Panagia Pantanassa.
With an area not exceeding 5 square kilometers, Telendos is a destination known for its magnificent sunsets, climbing and hiking. The people of Telendos have managed to preserve peacefulness and tranquility as cars are prohibited on the island. The main town hosts traditional tavernas, an Early Christian necropolis, which is one of the most significant archaeological sites of the Dodecanese, and local festivities which are among the island’s top attractions as the very few residents know how to honor their traditions and enjoy life.
The scenery in Pserimos is more or less the same. The authentic experiences that this idyllic island has to offer include swimming in turquoise waters, walking on mapped trails, underwater exploration of the north and east side of the island, where you can also discover a number of shipwrecks, and, of course, trying the absolutely delicious local food served at the tavernas.
Among the smaller Greek islands, Marathi is the most sparsely populated island of the Dodecanese with only one settlement, one beach, two tavernas and rooms to rent owned by the Emilianos family, who arrived on the island in 1977. Without roads or shops, there is nothing to disturb the absolute tranquility of this virgin paradise of only 350 acres.
