Karpathos: The Wild Soul of the Dodecanese
Karpathos is an island of dramatic contrasts, where limestone mountains plunge into turquoise seas and centuries-old traditions remain a living part of daily life. Located between Rhodes and Crete, Karpathos has avoided mass tourism due to its remote location, preserving its rugged landscape and the unique culture of its mountain villages. In 2026, it stands as the ultimate destination for hikers, windsurfers, and cultural explorers who want to see the ‘real Greece’ as it was decades ago.
Things to know about Karpathos
Geographically, Karpathos is long and narrow, with a high mountain ridge that creates two distinct worlds: the developed south and the wild, traditional north. Historically, it has a rich mythology, believed to be the home of the Titans. An ideal trip length is at least 7 days. It is famous for the village of Olympos, where women still wear traditional costumes, its world-class windsurfing at Afiartis, and some of the most beautiful beaches in the Mediterranean, like Apella.
Top attractions in Karpathos
Olympos Village
Olympos is a living museum. Perched on a remote mountain ridge, it was isolated for centuries. Today, women still speak a dialect with ancient roots, bake bread in communal outdoor ovens, and wear traditional hand-woven clothes. The village is a labyrinth of stone houses and windmills that feels disconnected from the modern world.
Apella Beach
Consistently voted one of the best beaches in the world, Apella is a stunning bay of turquoise water surrounded by pine trees that grow right down to the white pebbles. It is a wild, natural paradise that requires a boat trip or a winding drive to reach.
Afiartis (Windsurfing Center)
Karpathos is one of the windiest islands in Greece. Afiartis, on the southern tip, is a global hub for windsurfing and kitesurfing. The bay is divided into three sections (Chicken, Gun, and Devil’s Bay) to cater to all skill levels, from beginners to pros.
Pigadia (Karpathos Town)
The main port and capital is a modern town built on a wide bay. It offers a lively waterfront with taverns and bars and serves as the best base for exploring the southern part of the island. The nearby ruins of the ancient city of Potideon offer a look at the island’s antiquity.
Saria Islet (Day Trip)
Located just north of Karpathos and separated by a narrow strait, Saria is an uninhabited island of dramatic cliffs and sea caves. It features the ruins of a medieval Arab settlement and some of the most pristine snorkeling spots in the Dodecanese.
Kyra Panagia Beach
A postcard-perfect bay with a red-domed church overlooking the turquoise sea. It features a mix of sand and pebbles and is surrounded by steep cliffs. It is more organized than Apella and is a favorite for families and couples.
Mesochori Village
A beautiful, traditional village on the west coast, Mesochori is built over a lush valley of olive trees. It is a car-free village of narrow alleys and traditional ‘Karpathian houses’ (with the characteristic raised wooden platform). It is the best spot for sunset views on the west coast.
The Cave of Poseidon
Located near Pigadia, this sea cave was used as a sanctuary in antiquity. It is a peaceful, atmospheric site that you can visit by boat or a short hike, offering a connection to the island’s mythological past.
Finiki Fishing Village
A tiny, charming harbor on the west coast known for serving the best fresh fish on the island. It is the perfect place for a quiet lunch after exploring the nearby beaches of Arkasa.
Hiking the High Ridges
Karpathos has an incredible network of hiking trails that connect the mountain villages. The path from Spoa to Olympos is a legendary route that offers views of both the Aegean and Mediterranean seas simultaneously.
Island-hopping from Karpathos
Karpathos is a key stop between Rhodes and Crete. It is connected to Rhodes (3-4 hours) and Crete (Sitia and Heraklion) by ferry. There are also local boat connections to the nearby island of Kasos. Karpathos International Airport (AOK) receives direct charter flights from many European cities, making it a surprisingly accessible remote paradise.
