Tαξιδεύοντας στην πανέμορφη Ελλάδα αλλά και στο εξωτερικό…
Dodecanese islands, a mesmerizing experience
Dodecanese islands (Dodecanese in Greek means twelve in number) or else South Sporades, are not only twelve islands. Indeed, they are a cluster of fifteen famous islands, such as Rhodes, Kos, Symi, Patmos, Kalymnos and about 150 smaller ones (Alimia, Arkii, Farmakonisi, Yali, Kinaros, Levitha, Marathos, Nimos, Pserimos, Saria, Strogili, Sirna, Telendos) and of course a lot of other islets and rocky islets.
In Dodecanse islands the organized campings are two: One in Astypalea island the the second in Leros island.
Astypalea (in Greek it means “old city”) is the butterfly of Aegean sea! This island seems as if it has escaped the invasion of mass tourism. In the highest point of Chora (the capital city) there is an ancient acropolis and an imposing Venetian castle of Querini, which has stunning views of the Mediterranean sea all around.
If you are fond of hiking, mountain biking, climbing or other outdoor activities then Astypalea is your lovable destination. The only camping of the island is located at Marmari beach, a few kilometers away from Chora. The camping is called Astypalea and you should better bring your own tent here because they do not offer tents for rental.
The local traditional dishes of Astypalea are: Pougia (cheese pie with honey), chlori (cheese), arantista (lentils with dough and vinegar), xerotigana (pastry sweet), mitzithra (cheese). From Astypalea you can participate on adaily cruise to nearby islets Koutsomitis and Kounoupes. The boats depart from Pera Gialos beach.
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One of the most beautiful coasts of the island is Vatses (there is only one cafe there), another amazing beach is Kaminakia (where you can taste goat roasted in flower-pot). Livadi beach (has sunbeds), a lot of cafes / taverns / restaurants and night life also. Other marvelous beaches are: Steno, Agios Ioannis, Chrissi (Psili) Ammos, Maltezana, Tzanakia.
Leros combines stunning landscapes, relaxing moments and good food. On the island, you will find wonderful beaches, traditional villages and historical monuments that highlight its culture. According to Greek mythology, Leros was the favorite island of Artemis (Diana) the goddess of wild animals, vegetation and hunting. In this fertile land of green low hills & plains, Lerians revered Artemis and built a temple to honor her, in Partheni area (only the lower parts of the walls survived but the site still offers a great panoramic view).
Among the most important attractions of the island, is the Castle of Virgin Mary or else Panteli Castle. It was built by the Byzantines, on the site of an ancient fort. It houses the miraculous icon of the Monastery of Virgin Mary which, according to the legend, appeared out of the sea and it is believed to have healing powers.
At Xirokampos beach, the camping Leros is located. Ιt is ideal for calm and relaxed vacations.
Close to the camping, a wonderful and unique church was built and it is dedicated to Virgin Mary Κavourathena (word Kavourathena means the crab). As you can see the icon below, Virgin Mary is holding Jesus Christ and they are surrounded by crab’s large craws and legs.
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Leros island has a lot of paths for walks, making the island ideal for hiking lovers. One of the most special sight-seeings of the island is the “War Museum”, an underground tunnel which was constructed in Merikia and it is unique for its atmosphere.
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The beaches of Leros are exactly as you imagine the beaches of the Aegean sea: Clear blue waters, golden sandy beaches and a relaxed atmosphere! Some of the most popular beaches are: Vromolithos, Agia Marina (the capital city), Panteli, Dio Liskaria, Alinta, Krithoni, Agia Kioura and so many others.
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Another place of interest is Bellenis’ Tower & Museum of Folklore and History. Every summer, cultural and artistic events are held in the yard of the tower.
The known traditional dishes of Leros are koukouvades (fish marinated with rosmari), goat, sea-urchin, pougia (sweet pastry with honey and almonds) and patsavouropita (feta cheese pie).
Athens city and the suburbs have a lot of museums and archaeological sites for children and adults. You can find a detail description and useful info about them at:MUSEUMS
To watch popular tv series/films online free (no registration is needed) you can visit the following link: FREE MOVIES
“My warmest wishes for unforgettable journeys in Greece”
Traveling through Greece and not only there... 