Mykonos
,
Crete
,
Rhodes
,
Santorini
: all stunning
Greek islands
We’ve encountered this repeatedly.
However, if you’re seeking out a lesser-known island, consider Kastos. Boasting untouched natural beauty and abundant peace and quiet, it makes for an excellent choice over more frequented spots like
Corfu
.
With fewer than 100 inhabitants, Kastos has been described as a ‘drifting village’ by travel expert Claire Shields.
‘She mentions that with just a single tiny harbor, a group of stone houses, and a handful of taverns, time appears to move more slowly in this place.’
If beaches are your thing,
turquoise water
, you’ll feel right at home on this tiny island.
Activities to enjoy and sights to explore in Kastos
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.
When you’re encircled by the glistening sea, participating in water activities is essential. This includes everything from swimming to
snorkelling
and
scuba diving
When you go sailing, seize the chance to experience everything.
The Paralia Vali beach is just a brief stroll away from the harbor and is the most favored spot, whereas Limni beach stands out as the premier destination for swimmers.
Babakia and Vrisidia are situated on the eastern coastline of the island, whereas Aberlaki lies to the southern part—each location can be reached either by automobile or by walking.
Another essential stop is Agios Emilianos, which houses Fokotrypa (Seal Hole) – a tiny cavern featuring a beach within its walls.
It boasts a rich historical background, featuring archaeological discoveries dating back to the Roman and early Byzantine periods. During the Greek Revolution in 1821, when Greeks rose up against the Ottoman Empire, Kastos served as a sanctuary for both combatants and non-combatants.
The Marine Museum, known as ‘Home of the Fin Whale,’ features the skeleton of a juvenile fin whale that was found on the island’s shoreline during the 1970s.
Where to dine and sip on Kastos?
In the charming port town of Kastos, make sure to pause for evening beverages at the Windmill Bar, offering sweeping vistas of the sea and nearby islands.
Mylos Bar is another location praised by visitors for offering a ‘stunning’ and ‘remarkable’ vista of the Ionian Sea.
Ela Café Bar is also strongly endorsed. According to a TripAdvisor review by Iskrapari, “Kastos Island is lovely, yet it truly stands out thanks to this specific café bar. While the stunning vista from the terrace certainly adds charm, what sets it apart is…the welcoming atmosphere along with top-notch beverages and particularly the distinctive blend of rock, jazz, and blues dancing which define its character.”
Behind the primary harbor, you’ll find a small market with basics such as fruits and vegetables. However, do not count on finding any ATMs or pharmacies there.
Credit card transactions are usually not supported at this location, so be sure to withdraw lots of cash beforehand.
Get to know Greece
- Greece’s enchanting area is an under-the-radar treasure with temperatures around 23°C in May.
- I adore Greece, however, there’s one city from which I won’t return.
- I became enamored with the ‘Greek Caribbean’ – yet the island boasts a somber history.
- This hidden gem of a location is a Greek island where you can find accommodations starting at just £31.
- I visited Europe’s ‘dullest city’ and discovered it was teeming with vitality.
- The ‘tiny version of the Maldives’ in Spain now has a direct TUI flight from a UK airport.
Neighbouring Kalamos
While you’re staying on Kastos, you should take the opportunity to visit its neighbour Kalamos, via ferry or boat.
Surrounded by pine forests, this offers an opportunity to truly disconnect and immerse yourself in nature. According to travel and sailing specialist Claire, “ExploringKalamosby sail provides the experience of finding secluded coves, hidden sea caves, and tranquil swimming spots where you can enjoy solitude.”
‘It’s perfect for those who enjoy a slower pace of life. Here, you won’t see large beachfront pubs or hotels; instead, there are quaint family-run restaurants serving freshly caught seafood, handcrafted wines, and garden-grown veggies.’
If hiking is your passion, the Kalamos mountains offer spectacular vistas, and some of the creeks are perfect for exploration by kayak or small boat.
You may also discover the two villages of Kalamos on the eastern shores and Episkopi on the northwestern shores.
For dining spots, cafés, and shopping, Kalamos stands out as your top choice, featuring a quaint waterfront area along with several boutique hotels. In contrast, Episkopi offers a harbor, one restaurant, and a compact collection of homes; however, it’s close to the remnants of a Venetian fortress, making it ideal for exploration.
Getting there
Traveling to Kastos may not be as simple as visiting more renowned Greek spots, yet the silver lining is that it won’t empty your wallet.
The simplest path is to take a flight from
London
Gatwick to Preveza Airport, which is also called Aktion National Airport,
Greece
It will cost you $108 per person for a round trip flight.
easyJet
, with the trip lasting approximately three and a half hours.
This will place you merely 6.7km away from Preveza and 20km from the nearest vicinity.
island of Lefkada
From there, you’ll have to arrange for transportation to Mytikas, which can be done via taxi or bus.
Taking a taxi will cost you approximately £15, but you’ll reach the port in about 11 minutes. In contrast, using public buses is pricier and would take much longer due to their circuitous routes.
As soon as you board the ferry, which runs just once a day, expect to spend approximately 40 minutes traveling until you arrive at your final stop.
Have you got a tale to tell?
Reach out via email
Sazua.comLifestyleTeam@Sazua.com.co.uk
.
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