Patmos is greater than only a stunning island within the Aegean Sea; it is a spot the place households really feel a deep sense of belonging. The island’s small inhabitants and tight-knit neighborhood create a welcoming ambiance the place guests develop into a part of an prolonged household. Kids roam freely, whether or not on the seashore or within the picturesque village of Chora. Beneath is my information to taking advantage of your loved ones getaway on this enchanting Greek island.
The right way to Get There
Patmos doesn’t have an airport. Probably the most environment friendly technique to get there’s on the in a single day ferry from Athens, within the consolation of a personal cabin. Or, you’ll be able to choose to fly from Athens to the island of Kos, after which take the shorter ferry over to Patmos.
What to Do
Embark on a day cruise to the secluded isles surrounding Patmos: Marathi, Tiganakia, and Aspronisi. Famend because the hidden gems of the Aegean, these pristine shores provide crystal-clear waters, nearly abandoned seashores, and dreamy family-run tavernas.
For households that love a little bit of journey, a visit to Psili Ammos (which interprets to “advantageous sand” in Greek) combines mountain climbing, sampling conventional meals, and exploring the sandy shores of Patmos. The 20-minute trek to Psili Ammos ends with an unspoiled seashore — no loungers or umbrellas, only a few bushes and an area, family-owned taverna powered by a generator (there isn’t any electrical energy).
The usually gentle waves right here are perfect for youngsters, too, however make sure you test for sturdy winds that may create tough waters and wind-borne sand that make for an disagreeable seashore expertise. One other tip: Begin early within the morning and discover shade beneath the tamarisk bushes.
The place to Keep
A keep at The_Petra, a luxurious boutique resort and landmark of the island for the final 35 years, is like stepping right into a heat embrace. The property, which was began by my mom, Petra Stergiou, has been welcoming visitors for 3 generations. Right here, you’ll discover 11 charming rooms and the restaurant Mama’s Meals — a culinary expertise that provides a scrumptious mix of Greek flavors and the place visitors have even been identified to hitch in on the enjoyable by rolling up their sleeves and having fun with Greek cooking firsthand.
Christos Stergiou is a member of Journey + Leisure’s A-Checklist and makes a speciality of Greece and the jap Mediterranean journeys. You possibly can create a tailored itinerary with Stergiou by contacting him at cstergiou@truetrips.com.