Kasos, Another Hidden Gem of Greece (video)

Kasos is the southernmost island of the Dodecanese, close to Crete and Karpathos, and  is considered the last ring in the chain of islands connecting Asia Minor and Crete.
The earliest traces of human settlements on the island date from the Early Bronze Age under the strong influence of the nearby Minoan civilization.
The landscape of the tiny island is made of pristine natural beauty combined with an array of living traditions which turn Kasos into one of the last bastions of authentic Greece.

Remote, harsh and owner of a distinctive rocky scenery, Kasos clearly stands out from the standard mass-tourism destinations; it offers every visitor a completely different perception of Greece.
Villages dotted with old-fashioned houses still retain all their character, enhanced by the unique hospitality of their inhabitants.
The capital of the island is Fri. Its harbor, Bouka, today only dotted with small fishing caiques, looks more like the prototype of any pirate’s shelter.

A small village worth a visit is Emporio, where it is possible to admire the church of the Baptism of the Holy Mother of God. However, the main settlement of the island is Agia Marina, home to narrow alleys of unique beauty as well as the place where to enjoy some of the island’s best sunsets.
The hamlet of Panagia hosts the unique church of Pera Panagia, as well as six different chapels in Byzantine style, built one next to the other. The legend says the small churches were built in order to expel three hobgoblins that used to dwell in the area.
The ancient capital of the island is Poli, which lies on a hill and offers impressive views of the remaining villages. In Poli, it is also possible to visit the ruins of the old castle.

Kasos is also home to caves, some of which used to be places of worship as well as a refuge for the islanders during pirate attacks. Stilokamara is a mountain cave with bizarre rock formations.
The coastline of the island is a collection of beaches with characteristics that cater for all tastes. Some are abrupt and rocky, allowing for extreme diving, while others, made of soft sand or pebbles, are ideal for summer sports and relaxation.
Beaches on Kasos can be small, big, deserted or even organized; all of them are of stunning beauty, though.
On the southern side of the island, the small Avlaki is a beach with sea caves. Emporio, less wild, is a beach with a few tavernas in the area and quite organized. Another beach that should not be missed in any itinerary is Trita with its arch-shaped rock, star of many memorable pictures.

The very nearby islet of Armathia is an incredible combination of Tropic and Cycladic landscapes, which many travelers describe as one of the most beautiful beaches in the Mediterranean. The beach in Armathia is accessible only from the sea.

For more information visit the island’s website.