Karpathos is a stunning island located in the Aegean Sea, Greece. Mainly situated in the Dodecanese group of islands in Greece. Island has very significant historical backgrounds and rugged mountainous terrain and beautiful coastline. Karpathos offers a blend of traditional Greek culture and breathtaking natural scenery with stunning beaches and traveler friendly hotels. The island is less commercialized compared to its neighbors, providing a more authentic and calm experience for visitors.
Even today, Karpathos boasts charming villages such as Olympos, where you can explore local traditional customs and you can see local artisans at work like pottery and craft works. However, the island is more famous for its beaches and you will get good numbers of travel friendly beaches with the features of crystal-clear waters, and excellent opportunities for outdoor activities such as hiking, windsurfing, and swimming.
Moreover, its weather conditions like mild Mediterranean climate are more helpful in Karpathos to enjoy an ideal destination for tourists seeking both relaxation and adventure alike. Never forget to enjoy the real beauty of the island along with its rich history, showcasing various archaeological sites and remnants from different eras, including ancient Greek and Byzantine influences. Do not miss to enjoy the beauty of the serene atmosphere and timeless charm on this beautiful island.
History of Karpathos
Karpathos is one of the larger islands in the Dodecanese group of Greece, situated amidst the Crete and Rhodes. We can bifurcate the history of Karpathos into 5 categories like Ancient history, classical period, medieval history, during World War history and present day of Karpathos.
1. Ancient History
When we discuss the history of Karpathos it’s better to start from Ancient history. Dates back to ancient times, with evidence of human habitation back to the Neolithic period from 6000 to 4000 BCE. Archaeologists proved that there are remains which belong to prehistoric periods like tools, pottery and burial sites.
With the Mycenaean, and Romans influences, the place saw massive Bronze Age and also a very good relationship with the Minoans civilizations and civilizations of mainland Greece. The island was controlled by various powers throughout ancient history and also maintained very healthy trade and cultural exchanges between them.
2. Classical Period
Classical period to the Karpathos is called a golden age. In the 1st Millennium BCE, Dorians, an ancient Greek tribe settled in the Karpathos. According to the research most of the ancient languages and their costumes started during this period. Also an island which joined part of the Doric Tetrapolis, a federation of 4 Dorian cities.
During the 5th BCE Karpathos was ruled by the Persian Empire under the Roman Empire and later became a part of the Roman Empire and experienced relative stability under Roman rule.
3. Medieval period
In the medieval period, or simply called Byzantine periods, Karpathos was more influenced by the Byzantine Empire and later fell under the control of the Knights of Saint John. The island was subject to the pirate raids during this time and sought refuge in the inland village of Olympus.
Unfortunately island faced numerous invasions and occupations during the medieval periods particularly during the Ottoman period, which lasted from the 16th century until the early 20th century, especially from Muslim invaders. After the Italo-Turkish War (1911-1912), Karpathos was briefly occupied by Italy. After that inhabitant became a sufferer and took part in the shipbuilding. Italian control over the Karpathos also influenced today’s modern infrastructure and architecture.
4. During World Wars
Till the 19th century Karpathos was ruled by the Ottoman Empire and peoples of Karpathos made revolution against Ottoman rules too. Many of the local leaders and skirmishes participated in this revolt. However in 1912, Karpathos also participated in the Italo-Turkish war until World War 2. During 1945, the island was eventually separated by the Allied forces. After World War II, Karpathos, along with the other Dodecanese Islands, became part of Greece in 1947.
5. Present Day of Karpathos
Today, the island is a part of Greece, well known for its rich cultural heritage, traditional villages, and stunning natural landscapes. Moreover it’s economic development, tourism, infrastructure growth and culture which attracted millions of visitors every year. However today Karpathos remains its traditional charm and symbol of island cultural identity.
Top 5 Beaches in Karpathos
1. Apella Beach
Undoubtedly Karpathos most famous beach well known for its crystal-clear blue waters and golden sands. However the beach is also called Instagrammale due to its calm, clear and turquoise water. Apella Beach is situated with impressive cliffs surroundings which provide a stunning backdrop to travelers. Beach is wedged inside a thick, white, pebbly sand that is flanked by the massive rocks and pine trees. Surely Apella beach will be the most popular quiet and picturesque spot to relax among visitors.
2. Kyra Panagia Beach
Another famous and interesting beach is Kyra Panagia Beach, which is a small, charming beach. Its beauty will really attract you with its backwater, green mountains, the shallow, fine green blue water are really amazing things. Offers pleasant and peaceful atmosphere to visitors along with smattering of taverns and shops. More importantly if you are an enthusiastic traveler never forget to take snorkelling and swimming by its friendly clear waters and abundance of marine life.
3. Achata Beach
Achata Beach is located in the valley which is surrounded by the tamarisk trees and rocks, especially its breathtaking view of the valley. However, it’s a pebble beach with deep blue waters and dramatic cliffs on either side. Its green water and fine pebbly sand are really impressive in order to indulge in the water. Usually Achata Beach is less crowded compared to other beaches on the island in Karpathos. Therefore it is also an ideal place to make snorkelling and scuba diving options. Remember there is a cave which is the prime spot to grab your solitary taverna.
4. Diakoftis Beach
Diakoftis Beach contains a very long stretch of sandy shore coverage with shallow waters, making it more suitable for solo travelers and families with children. Known as the prettiest beach in Karpathos due to its fluffy white sands crystal clear blue green waters. You can enjoy the beach either through water activities or exploring the stunning views of the surrounding landscape, including the nearby uninhabited island of Saria. Surely as a traveler you will be treated to a wild setting of cedar trees, sand dunes and small caves.
5. Amoopi Beach
Nestled close to the town of Amoopi, Karpathos. Beach is well maintained by the amenities, shallow waters and fine pebbly island. If you compare with any of the above beaches, Amoopi Beach is quite quieter and sandier. Therefore it is more suitable for family travelers due to a lot of kids’ areas to spend their time. It includes the range of amenities such as sunbeds, umbrellas, and water sports equipment for rent. It is one step further where you can park the kids, cocktails and enjoy the cerulean waters.
Popular Hotels in Karpathos
1. Alimounda Mare Hotel
Alimounda Mare hotel is a newly built 5 star luxury accommodation in Karpathos. This luxury hotel is situated in Pigadia, the capital of Karpathos. Hotel contains a total of 258 guest rooms and suites just right on the beach. It is just a 5 minutes’ walk to the harbour and town of Pigadia. Hotel offers an array of facilities like spa and wellness, sports and leisure’s and restaurants and bars. Each has elegant rooms with sea views, a spa, swimming pools, and a variety of dining options. Never miss to enjoy its body and soul massage and food and beverages here.
2. Blue Waves Hotel
Located in Amoopi, Karpathos, Blue Waves Hotel is well known for family-friendly accommodations with comfortable rooms, a swimming pool, and easy access to the beach. In the Blue Waves Hotel you can easily watch nearby natural beauties and beaches like Pigadia beach and Kira Pangagia beach. Its incredible private pool with Jacuzzi and waterfall is really amazing to family travelers. Guests can enjoy traditional Greek cuisine at the on-site restaurant here.
3. Apollon Hotel
Situated in the very peaceful location in the charming village of Arkansa. Apollon Hotel offers cosy rooms with balconies where you can overlook the sea or beaches with the surrounding mountains. Not just that, the hotel is also surrounded by the olive trees and fields where you can spend quality of your time just by skipping your busy schedules. Guests can relax by the pool or explore the nearby beaches.
4. Alkioni Hotel
Alkioni hotel tries to boost spectacular views of the Aegean Sea. Such a beautiful boutique hotel is located in the picturesque village of Diafani, with inclusions of fully furnished rooms and suites. Known for its traditional architecture and peaceful atmosphere, also offers spacious rooms, dining areas and well equipped kitchens. Alkioni Hotel offers comfortable rooms and a rooftop terrace or private balcony with panoramic sea views. Other amenities like satellite TV, iron and hairdryer, free public areas and free internet services.
5. Finiki View Hotel
Overlooking the fishing village of Finiki, Finiki View Hotel offers a romantic environment alongside excellent amenities which are stay friendly. Its most interesting feature is that the hotel provides modern accommodation with balconies offering stunning sea views. Guest rooms contained A/c, refrigerator and other basic amenities. Hotel also includes a swimming pool where you can swim inorder to drive and watch a Finiki View. Guests can also unwind at the poolside bar or explore the nearby beaches and tavernas. Never forget to try delicious foods at Finiki shrimp restaurants such as Taverne Dolphin.
Karpathos Map
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Q: Is Karpathos worth visiting?
A: Its always shine by significant historical backgrounds and rugged mountainous terrain and beautiful coastline. Karpathos also lend of traditional Greek culture and breathtaking natural scenery with stunning beaches and traveler friendly hotels making it one of the worth visiting destination.
