This scenic path offers amazing views and a balanced mix of uphill and downhill walking. On the paved road starting from the church of Arethousa, we continue uphill towards the highest houses in the village. On our left, we will eventually see a sign indicating the start of the path towards the direction of Chrysostomos.
When you explore this beautiful medieval village and its enchanting castle and artsy ateliers, stop by the hot springs. Their temperature, ranging from 43-46˚C, is ideal for many ailments as well. These springs are popular and a vibrant part of tourism in Lesvos.
Near the village of Glaredo a few kilometres west of Agios Kyrikos lie the thermal springs of Thero and Hilio-Thermo. The municipality has used large boulders to section off the coastal springs from the sea, creating a natural pool overlooking the waves. The characteristic red-coloured sand contains properties which treat and cure several different dermatological conditions. Access to the springs is free and easy, either on foot, by bicycle, or with a vehicle, thanks to the paved road which runs just above it from Agios Kyrikos.
This is the kind of beach you can spend the day at, as there are a few tavernas as well as free showers and plenty of greenery to find shade under during the hottest hours of the day. The stone and pebble beach is easily accessible by foot from Samos town.
Located 12km from Vathi, this is one of the island’s most loved beaches, Lemonakia has fine sand and crystal clear, azure waters. Part of the beach has umbrellas and sunbeds for rent and there is also a taverna for a spot of lunch.
This is another secluded beach that never gets crowded. If you’re looking to swim with no one around, you’ll be stunned by its almost-white sandy shores that stretch on and on. The sea is shallow here, which makes the perfect blue hues seem tropical. It’s perfect for swimmers of all ages.
This wild, secluded beach is a favourite for explorers and those looking for a bit of adventure. Located at the end of a river gorge in the northern part of the island, Nas offers bathers a one-of-a-kind experience.
As one of the island’s most beautiful and unique routes, the path leading hikers from the seaside village of Nas to the mountainous region of Raches, never fails to impress. The path runs through the Gorge of Halari, alongside its eponymous river, the largest found on the island.
Just a few hundred meters from the Ireon archaeological site, and easily reachable by car, this beach is slightly uncomfortable as it has sharp rocks and pebbles at some points (this is particularly the case at a little beach that comes off the main one), thus special footwear is advised. There are umbrellas and sunbeds for rent, as well as a shower and small changing room. Above the beach is a nice taverna.
Potami (river) is a large pebble beach on the northeastern shore of Samos. It’s well worth taking the two-kilometer walk that starts at the river, takes you through a beautiful forest and concludes at the island’s famous waterfalls and a small lake that’s idea for a refreshing swim.
This small cove is a hidden gem, complete with white pebbles and emerald waters. It’s located in the southeastern part of the island between the village of Therma and the island’s capital of Kyrikos.
A small island near the southern shore of Samos that can be visited daily from Pythagoreio in a one-hour trip on a small boat. The beach is considered one of Samos’ prettiest, because of it’s super fine, soft sand and crystalline azure waters and the lush vegetation on its rocky coves, yet its popularity also means that it’s often very busy with the boat-loads of visitors who stop over. There are a few umbrellas for rent and there’s a small tavern.
The star of the island and one of the most impressive throughout the Aegean, the beach of Seychelles never fails to impress. Its aquamarine waters and odd rock formations give it the name taken from the similar-looking archipelago. It can be found along the island’s southern coast, near Magganitis.
This beautiful sandy beach is a favorite amongst locals and visitors. Once you take a dip in the sparkling blue waters and admire the copses of trees that hug the coast, it will become one of your favorites too. It’s long sandy stretches of golden sand accommodate the crowds that gather. Perfect for kids.
The sandy beach of Therma can be found on the coast of the village bearing the same name. It’s sandy and features a few umbrellas. You can find it next to the village’s small port.
One of the island’s most touted beaches, Tsambou is a pebble beach with clean, crystal blue waters, and is surrounded by lush greenery. The beach has something for everyone, as there are a kiosk and some tavernas, and part of it has umbrellas and sunbeds for rent and showers, while further along the beach there is a more secluded part favored by nudists. It is located a little outside of Kokkari town and can be reached by following a steep path that leads from the central road.
This scenic path offers amazing views and a balanced mix of uphill and downhill walking. On the paved road starting from the church of Arethousa, we continue uphill towards the highest houses in the village. On our left, we will eventually see a sign indicating the start of the path towards the direction of Chrysostomos.
This well-known path is in excellent condition and begins in the centre of the village Mavrato. From the town’s church, we turn left at the intersection and eventually arrive at the cemetery
5 hours hiking this trail which cuts through the island from east to west and reaches its highest peaks, is the ultimate way to experience the real Ikaria. The route only briefly follows an official path, beginning along the trail marked “Mavrato-Kapsalino Castle”. Once reaching the stone shelter, a sign indicating directions can be seen.
As one of the island’s most beautiful and unique routes, the path leading hikers from the seaside village of Nas to the mountainous region of Raches, never fails to impress. The path runs through the Gorge of Halari, alongside its eponymous river, the largest found on the island.
Continuing from where the Chrysostomos-Pounta trail ends, hikers venture on west, heading up the side of a ravine which lies across the church of Agios Dimitrios. Green markings and stone stacks indicate the beginning of the path.
Historically made as a way to connect the western part of the island with its capital, this trail is one of the island’s most beautiful. The path’s starting point can be found at the chapel of Agios Dimitrios (indicated by a large sign) along the road from Evdilo towards Magganitis.
From the Pounta – Ammoudia trail, we begin this route at the juncture of Stavri. Here, we follow the path to the left heading south, and continue downhill towards the steep mountainside. Here the trail has been cut into the rock and is hard to make out at some points.
This route begins from the main square of Christos Raches and follows the characteristic red ‘footprints’ until the 9th marker. Here we turn left at the sign indicating Ammoudia and Magganitis. Continuing to follow the red footprints, we pass farmhouses and cross the dirt road, heading up the mountainside and following the stonewall which leads into the forest.
Undoubtedly Ikaria’s most popular trail, this circuit takes hikers on a grand tour of the region of Raches. Starting along the central road just outside Armenistis, (just behind the ‘Pleiades’ club) this path covers a distance of 25klm. The route is extremely well marked, with shapes of small red footprints showing hikers the way. The path was created and continues to be maintained by the Raches Resident Council, who have also made an exceptional map of the trail and wider Raches area. The map can be purchased throughout several press agents on the island. The trail itself is considered easy, and intersects many other trails along the way.
These therapeutic springs are ideal for anyone who wants to ease their muscles and enjoy a wonderful locale. Lesvos’ many hot springs puts the island on the map when it comes to alternative tourism, and the Agios Giannis hot springs contain many beneficial minerals.
When you explore this beautiful medieval village and its enchanting castle and artsy ateliers, stop by the hot springs. Their temperature, ranging from 43-46˚C, is ideal for many ailments as well. These springs are popular and a vibrant part of tourism in Lesvos.
Near the village of Glaredo a few kilometres west of Agios Kyrikos lie the thermal springs of Thero and Hilio-Thermo. The municipality has used large boulders to section off the coastal springs from the sea, creating a natural pool overlooking the waves. The characteristic red-coloured sand contains properties which treat and cure several different dermatological conditions. Access to the springs is free and easy, either on foot, by bicycle, or with a vehicle, thanks to the paved road which runs just above it from Agios Kyrikos.
These mineral springs will astound you with their calming effects and wonderful infrastructure. They date back centuries, so you can combine your therapeutic dip with a look back in history. Admire the building as you rest, and enjoy the high quality mineral springs.
If you want to experience a one-of-a-kind thermal dip, Polichnitos Thermal Springs are the ideal place. They boast the hottest temperatures in Europe for thermal springs and are chlorinated to optimal levels of radioactivity. You’ll also love their rustic local and stone-built infrastructure.
With temperatures stable at around 40˚C, these hot springs contain many therapeutic minerals that help with a variety of ailments. Enjoy the wonderful scenery and the close proximity to the island’s capital as it’s an extra incentive to put these springs on your itinerary.
The public Hydrotherapy centre of Asklipios is located within Ikaria’s capital city of Agios Kyrikos, next to the police station. All four hydrotherapy centres have been completely remodeled and represent some of the country’s most modern thermal spring treatment centres. Fully equipped with ramps, the springs are accessible to all visitors. Well-trained personnel can be found at each centre, offering their expertise and assistance to address any need which may arise.
The public spring is located inside a natural cave on the beach of Therma, right next to the marina.
Located just west of Skepsi beach lies the pebbly beach of Tsoukala. It’s along the road from Agios Kyrikos to Xylosyrtis and is also close to Lefkada. Shade is provided by trees backing the beach, and a coffee bar can be found just metres away.
This tucked away cove with its cool blue waters and bright white stony shore will remind you of an exotic island. Trees practically tickle the water, while the beach itself is perfect for lounging around or spending the day. It gets crowded during peak times, but it’s worth a dip.
Also known as Ai Giorgis, this sandy beach can be found in the eastern part of the island. Unorganized and secluded, it’s great for those looking to get away from the crowds.
In the Marathokampos area, along the road to Kallithea, and concealed between verdant hills that end in rocky cliffs, this pebble and gold sand beach is a little wild, and wonderful to the eye. The beach is nudist-friendly.
Bright white pebbles, blue-green waves and an underwater rock-reef ecosystem make this beach a favorite and one of the prettiest. If you like windsurfing or other watersports, there are shops with all the necessary amenities. Perfect for kids – and the marine life provides an excellent introduction to the island’s vibrant ecosystems.
This rocky beach beside the island’s main port, is a great choice for those staying in the capital and looking for a quick dip.
This beautiful beach will take you back to a time when Lesvos didn’t have any tourism infrastructure. With a rugged landscape and crystal clear waters, this beach offers huge stretches of sandy shores. It’s remote, so you’ll feel like you’re on your own. Windsurfers, this is the place for you to enjoy your sport.
The turquoise water of Anefandi contrasts beautifully with the white pebbles on its shore. Just east of Therma, you’ll find it between Kerame and Nyfi beaches.
This beach lies just outside the village of Karavostamo, in the northern part of Ikaria. It takes its name from the eponymous river which flows behind it, creating a unique wetland.
This pebbly beach is located in one of the island’s most popular resorts. It’s a small cove with umbrellas and other amenities nearby.
With turquoise waters and embraced by rocks with a striking morphology, Aspres is ideal for snorkeling and chilling out. There are no umbrellas or sunbeds, and there is one taverna. In the Marathokampos area, along the road to Kallithea.
This beautiful, undiscovered beach can be found in the eastern part of the island and is perfect for those looking for some privacy.
Taking its name from the eponymous village it lies next to, this beautiful beach is found along Ikaria’s northern coast.
Around 12km from Vathi, along the road to Karlovassi, the beach is surrounded by greenery and facing pine-covered hills. It has cool, fresh sea water ideal for an invigorating swim. There are a small tavern and little hotel nearby.
A large pebble beach with a clean waters, and sandy patch further towards one end, Balos is peaceful as it’s not near the road. There are a limited number of umbrellas and sunbeds for rent and a few tavernas, among them a Cypriot restaurant. The beach has a little cave as well as a small modern church.
If you love Molyvo’s medieval aura, then you must also take a dip in the sea in Eftalou. With a wonderful view, this quiet beach is perfect for those of you who want to lie back and take a solitary dip. A special feature of Eftalou Beach is its thermal springs. So combine your swim with a therapeutic dip in the hot springs.
Popular with the locals, this pebbly beach features crystal clear waters and is located near Magganitis, just outside the village of Plagia.
One of the island’s largest beaches, the sandy coast of Faros stretches out along Ikaria’s southern shore. It’s also one of the most developed, with several seaside taverns and cafes lining its edge.
Fyrodi is a great sandy beach near Magganitis and is very popular with the locals.
Just 1km from Vathi, this pebble beach has very clean waters and has been awarded a blue flag. There are a nearby café and tavern as well as umbrellas and sunbeds for rent.
This laid back beach on the island’s north side features views of the picturesque fishing harbour and the Church of Analypsis.
This popular swimming spot lies beside the small marina of Magganitis village and features crystal clear water.
The sandy beach of Glyfadi can be found on the north eastern side of the island. Backed by trees offering natural shade, this beach is located just east of Therma.
Its name aptly meaning “sacred”, this secret sandy beach has been a well-kept secret due to only being recently made accessible. It lies along Ikaria’s northern coast.
A pebble beach located 21km from Vathi, where you’ll find plenty of options for food and drinks as well as umbrellas and sunbeds for rent.
Along with its ancient city and archaeological site, Kambos’s sandy beach is popular with visitors and has all the amenities one could need nearby.
Lesvos can turn into your own private island – or at least that’s what it will seem like if you go for a swim on Kampos Beach. Endless stretches of golden sand and clean, crystal-clear blue waters that sparkle in the sun will be yours and yours alone. It could get windy, so your swim might become a bit of an adventure.
Lying at the island’s westernmost point, this clean, pebbly beach is perfect for those looking for some peace and quiet.
There’s nothing remarkable about this pebble beach, which sprawls out in front of the village and hotels, and is busy with tavernas and cafes. The beach is an easy stop for a dip especially if you’re staying at the village. Umbrellas and sunbeds are rented out here.
One of two beaches on the island with the same name, this sandy swimming spot is located near Evdilos, on the northeastern part of the island.
The second of two beaches with the same name lies east of Therma, on the way to Faros. It’s a small, sandy cove, far away from the crowds.
This is the kind of beach you can spend the day at, as there are a few tavernas as well as free showers and plenty of greenery to find shade under during the hottest hours of the day. The stone and pebble beach is easily accessible by foot from Samos town.
On the road towards Kerveli, around the Poseidonio hotel, you’ll find Klima beach (southeast Samos). Far from the madding crowds, this pleasant little hideout has clean, blue-green shallow waters, and a pebble beach that turns into sand as you enter the sea.
Also known as The Long Beach, this lively beach with small pebbles and a scattering of tavernas is near Kokkari town and is popular amongst windsurfers because of its strong northern winds.
The rocky beach of Lefkada can be found on the island’s southern coast, in an area known for its hot springs. It can be found along the road leading from Agios Kyrikos to Xylosyrti.
Located 12km from Vathi, this is one of the island’s most loved beaches, Lemonakia has fine sand and crystal clear, azure waters. Part of the beach has umbrellas and sunbeds for rent and there is also a taverna for a spot of lunch.
A sandy beach not ideal for families as the sea here is often quite tumultuous. The beach is 2km from Vathi and also close to a local winery.
A sandy and fine pebble beach for the more adventurous visitor, as it can only be reached by foot or by boat. Located on the northwesterern coast of Samos on its mountainous side, the beach is considered one of the island’s most idyllic, as it is wild, secluded and especially loved by those who value their privacy, and nudists. There are no beach bars or restaurants, so bring water and sunscreen.
This is another secluded beach that never gets crowded. If you’re looking to swim with no one around, you’ll be stunned by its almost-white sandy shores that stretch on and on. The sea is shallow here, which makes the perfect blue hues seem tropical. It’s perfect for swimmers of all ages.
The picturesque and unique beach of Messakti is one of the island’s most well-known. The Myrsonas River flows behind it, creating a wetland, and along with it, an almost tropical setting.
A small isolated pebble and rock beach on the mountainous, northwestern side of the island that can only be reached by hiking. Not as scenic as Megalo Seitani, just a little further on.
A small pebble beach with a natural marina for small boats, in northeast Samos, located 6km from Vathi. Nearby you’ll find Mikri Lakka beach and the Monastery of Zodochou Pigis.
A 3km pebble beach laced with greenery is well protected from strong winds and is around 10km south of Vathi. The beach, which has several options, is ideal for those who like to keep busy in the sun, offering numerous water sports facilities as well as umbrellas and sunbeds for rent. Also good for children, as the water is of medium depth.
This wild, secluded beach is a favourite for explorers and those looking for a bit of adventure. Located at the end of a river gorge in the northern part of the island, Nas offers bathers a one-of-a-kind experience.
Located just east of Therma, the remote, mostly pebbly beach of Nealia offers swimmers clear waters and relaxed sunbathing surrounded by green hills and close to thermal springs. Nealia beach envokes a sense of wild beauty and timelessness.
This beautiful sandy beach with crystal-clear sapphire waters will beckon you to take a swim – and never come out. Birdwatchers will especially enjoy their swim, because this beach is part of an important ecosystem that provides shelter for a number of rare species. Combine swimming with nature-loving.
Nyfi is a pebbly, average-sized beach along the way to Faros along the northeastern side of the island.
Just a few hundred meters from the Ireon archaeological site, and easily reachable by car, this beach is slightly uncomfortable as it has sharp rocks and pebbles at some points (this is particularly the case at a little beach that comes off the main one), thus special footwear is advised. There are umbrellas and sunbeds for rent, as well as a shower and small changing room. Above the beach is a nice taverna.
A small, quiet beach ideal for relaxing without disturbances, with very clean waters and several choices of tavernas, for your lunch break. It’s located 8km southeast of Vathi.
Potami (river) is a large pebble beach on the northeastern shore of Samos. It’s well worth taking the two-kilometer walk that starts at the river, takes you through a beautiful forest and concludes at the island’s famous waterfalls and a small lake that’s idea for a refreshing swim.
A very large sand and pebble beach in southern Samos, quite near the airport (you’ll definitely see at least one or two planes fly by as you swim) and various hotels of Pythagoreio. There are many tavernas alongside the beach, as well as umbrellas and sunbeds for rent.
This small cove is a hidden gem, complete with white pebbles and emerald waters. It’s located in the southeastern part of the island between the village of Therma and the island’s capital of Kyrikos.
Following the road to Kerveli in southern Samos, you’ll come across a sign leading you to Psylli Ammos, which is around 9km from Samos town (Vathi) and a 15 minute drive. Just one mile across from the Turkish coastline, this popular beach got its name from its very fine sand. It has shallow waters, which makes it especially welcoming to families with young children. The beach has sunbeds and umbrellas for rent.
Also known as Remataki, this cute, shallow, sandy beach gathers families, windsurfers and visitors who leave their boats in its bay. Located around 15km from Vathi, the beach has a bar serving refreshments and beer on tap and there are also sunbeds and umbrellas for rent. While there, you can visit the statue of Pythagoras by the beach.
A small (half a kilometer long) pebble beach, located on the northeastern side of the island.
A small island near the southern shore of Samos that can be visited daily from Pythagoreio in a one-hour trip on a small boat. The beach is considered one of Samos’ prettiest, because of it’s super fine, soft sand and crystalline azure waters and the lush vegetation on its rocky coves, yet its popularity also means that it’s often very busy with the boat-loads of visitors who stop over. There are a few umbrellas for rent and there’s a small tavern.
The star of the island and one of the most impressive throughout the Aegean, the beach of Seychelles never fails to impress. Its aquamarine waters and odd rock formations give it the name taken from the similar-looking archipelago. It can be found along the island’s southern coast, near Magganitis.
This beautiful sandy beach is a favorite amongst locals and visitors. Once you take a dip in the sparkling blue waters and admire the copses of trees that hug the coast, it will become one of your favorites too. It’s long sandy stretches of golden sand accommodate the crowds that gather. Perfect for kids.
Taking its name from the Greek word for “thought”, you’ll know you’ve arrived at this beach when you see the statue of the “thinking man”. The beach is located along the road leading from Agios Kyrikos to Xylosyrti in the southern part of the island.
The sandy beach of Therma can be found on the coast of the village bearing the same name. It’s sandy and features a few umbrellas. You can find it next to the village’s small port.
This small beach can be found next to the village of Trapalou in the southern part of the island. Surrounded by mountains and near a few great taverns, this beach is a great place to “get away from it all” while still taking advantage of some nearby comforts.
A picturesque, small sandy beach in northern Samos, near Avlakia beach and Agios Konstantinos.
One of the island’s most touted beaches, Tsambou is a pebble beach with clean, crystal blue waters, and is surrounded by lush greenery. The beach has something for everyone, as there are a kiosk and some tavernas, and part of it has umbrellas and sunbeds for rent and showers, while further along the beach there is a more secluded part favored by nudists. It is located a little outside of Kokkari town and can be reached by following a steep path that leads from the central road.
A scenic and serene beach that can be reached by boat from Pythagoreion.
If you love huge stretches of perfect sandy beach, crystal-clear blue waters, and ideal swimming conditions, this is the beach to choose. Although popular, it’s so big you’ll feel like you have your own private part. The sea is brimming with fish, so if you’re a nature lover and would like to casually observe the marine ecosystem, Vatera beach is perfect.
This very large, pebble and sand beach in southern Samos, is lined with many tavernas, hotels and houses nearby and has sunbeds and umbrellas for rent.
This beach hares its name with the village its found within. Located in the southern part of the island along the road from Agios Kyrikos to Magganitis, this pebbly beach is backed by trees and surrounded by the wild beauty of Ikaria’s mountains.
This scenic path offers amazing views and a balanced mix of uphill and downhill walking. On the paved road starting from the church of Arethousa, we continue uphill towards the highest houses in the village. On our left, we will eventually see a sign indicating the start of the path towards the direction of Chrysostomos.
When you explore this beautiful medieval village and its enchanting castle and artsy ateliers, stop by the hot springs. Their temperature, ranging from 43-46˚C, is ideal for many ailments as well. These springs are popular and a vibrant part of tourism in Lesvos.
Near the village of Glaredo a few kilometres west of Agios Kyrikos lie the thermal springs of Thero and Hilio-Thermo. The municipality has used large boulders to section off the coastal springs from the sea, creating a natural pool overlooking the waves. The characteristic red-coloured sand contains properties which treat and cure several different dermatological conditions. Access to the springs is free and easy, either on foot, by bicycle, or with a vehicle, thanks to the paved road which runs just above it from Agios Kyrikos.
This is the kind of beach you can spend the day at, as there are a few tavernas as well as free showers and plenty of greenery to find shade under during the hottest hours of the day. The stone and pebble beach is easily accessible by foot from Samos town.
Located 12km from Vathi, this is one of the island’s most loved beaches, Lemonakia has fine sand and crystal clear, azure waters. Part of the beach has umbrellas and sunbeds for rent and there is also a taverna for a spot of lunch.
This is another secluded beach that never gets crowded. If you’re looking to swim with no one around, you’ll be stunned by its almost-white sandy shores that stretch on and on. The sea is shallow here, which makes the perfect blue hues seem tropical. It’s perfect for swimmers of all ages.
This wild, secluded beach is a favourite for explorers and those looking for a bit of adventure. Located at the end of a river gorge in the northern part of the island, Nas offers bathers a one-of-a-kind experience.
As one of the island’s most beautiful and unique routes, the path leading hikers from the seaside village of Nas to the mountainous region of Raches, never fails to impress. The path runs through the Gorge of Halari, alongside its eponymous river, the largest found on the island.
Just a few hundred meters from the Ireon archaeological site, and easily reachable by car, this beach is slightly uncomfortable as it has sharp rocks and pebbles at some points (this is particularly the case at a little beach that comes off the main one), thus special footwear is advised. There are umbrellas and sunbeds for rent, as well as a shower and small changing room. Above the beach is a nice taverna.
Potami (river) is a large pebble beach on the northeastern shore of Samos. It’s well worth taking the two-kilometer walk that starts at the river, takes you through a beautiful forest and concludes at the island’s famous waterfalls and a small lake that’s idea for a refreshing swim.
This small cove is a hidden gem, complete with white pebbles and emerald waters. It’s located in the southeastern part of the island between the village of Therma and the island’s capital of Kyrikos.
A small island near the southern shore of Samos that can be visited daily from Pythagoreio in a one-hour trip on a small boat. The beach is considered one of Samos’ prettiest, because of it’s super fine, soft sand and crystalline azure waters and the lush vegetation on its rocky coves, yet its popularity also means that it’s often very busy with the boat-loads of visitors who stop over. There are a few umbrellas for rent and there’s a small tavern.
The star of the island and one of the most impressive throughout the Aegean, the beach of Seychelles never fails to impress. Its aquamarine waters and odd rock formations give it the name taken from the similar-looking archipelago. It can be found along the island’s southern coast, near Magganitis.
This beautiful sandy beach is a favorite amongst locals and visitors. Once you take a dip in the sparkling blue waters and admire the copses of trees that hug the coast, it will become one of your favorites too. It’s long sandy stretches of golden sand accommodate the crowds that gather. Perfect for kids.
The sandy beach of Therma can be found on the coast of the village bearing the same name. It’s sandy and features a few umbrellas. You can find it next to the village’s small port.
One of the island’s most touted beaches, Tsambou is a pebble beach with clean, crystal blue waters, and is surrounded by lush greenery. The beach has something for everyone, as there are a kiosk and some tavernas, and part of it has umbrellas and sunbeds for rent and showers, while further along the beach there is a more secluded part favored by nudists. It is located a little outside of Kokkari town and can be reached by following a steep path that leads from the central road.
