Holiday in Karpathos

What makes Karpathos special as a destination?

Karpathos lies like a wild diamond between Crete and Rhodes in the southeastern Aegean and is one of the most authentic islands in Greece. Here, a strong Meltemi wind blows, making the island a paradise for windsurfers and kitesurfers while simultaneously sweeping the beaches wonderfully empty. Unlike the more well-known neighboring islands, Karpathos has preserved its original character – in the mountain villages, older women still wear traditional costumes and maintain customs that have long since disappeared elsewhere. The mountain village of Olympos in the north of the island is the cultural heart of Karpathos. It clings like an eagle's nest to a mountain ridge and is only accessible via a winding road or by boat. Here, an archaic Doric dialect is still spoken, hand-painted wooden chests stand in the houses, and the windmills still grind grain. Olympos feels like a time travel to Greece of past centuries. The beaches of Karpathos are among the most beautiful in the Dodecanese island group. Apella Beach, nestled between cliffs and pines, has been repeatedly awarded as one of the best beaches in Greece. Kyra Panagia and Ahata delight with crystal-clear water and wild nature. The capital Pigadia offers a lively harbor promenade with taverns and cafés. From Germany, Karpathos can be reached in summer by direct charter or via Athens and Rhodes. The island has its own small airport. A rental car or quad is recommended to reach the scattered beaches and villages. Prices are moderate, hospitality is great, and the feeling of adventure is ever-present.