DISCOVER KASTELLORIZO

This small Greek island is the most easterly of the dodecanese islands in the Aegean sea. It sits at a 3 and half hour boat trip from Rhodes and a short 20 minute boat trip from Turkey's Kas. This tiny island has an important history being conquered by the French, Italians, The Ottomans and the British. With the later leaving the island is disrepair. The island once had a population of 9,000 people but with constant invasions and war, the population now sits at 300. The Greek people fled the island not long after World War 2 and the majority found their knew home in either Australia or American. It is these families who visit their homeland every year and have rebuilt the island back to is former glory.

The island once had a population of 9,000 people but with constant invasions and war, the population now sits at 300. The Greek people fled the island not long after World War 2 and the majority found their knew home in either Australia or American. It is these families who visit their homeland every year and have rebuilt the island back to is former glory.

How to get to Kastellorizo

The best way to get to Kastellorizo, also knows as Megisti, is by ferry from Rhodes. The ferry takes 3.5 hours and will cost €25. During the summer seasons the ferries normally run 3 times a week, but have been known to travel 5-6 times a week during busier times.

You can also catch a small plane to Kastellorizo from Rhodes which takes 30 minutes. Be warned, the flights are constantly cancelled due to the windy location on the Kastellorizo airport. If you do manage to take off from the airport, be prepared to fly off the cliff of the island, take a little dip, then fly up into the air. Its quite the rush!

Beaches

There are no beaches on the island. In saying that you can swim the port. Just in front on the old mosque are sun beds and umbrellas and cafes that serve food and drinks.

St George's island: Going to St George's island is a must. A day trip to the island to sit and relax an swim in the clear blue waters.

Transport on the Kastellorizo

As most the island is situated on the port, there is no need for transport. But if you do need a taxi to travel up to the top of the island or to the airport there is one taxi on the island. You will need to call them (every cafe owner knows the number) to book.

To get around the island and to visit St George's island or the blue cave, there are 2 speed boat operators at the port. They operate all day and will take you all over the island.

Where to eat

Ta Platania: This is the best restaurant on the island. Run by the yiayia's (grandmothers) of the island they make traditional Greek food. Their stuffed onions are a must. The restaurant us on on the port, so you will have to walk inland through the winding streets of the island. The walk is beautiful and takes around 15 minutes. If walking is not your thing, you can try your luck with the taxi.

Athina Seafood Tavern: This taverna sits right on the waters edge and has the best lamb cutlets on the island. The owners of the restaurant are so welcoming and their food is delicious.

Ταβέρνα: When visiting St George's island for you day trip and swim visit the Taverna restaurant. Their calamari and tzatziki is the best

Things to do on Kastellorizo

The Blue Cave: Jump in a speed boat from the port and head to the blue cave. The blue cave is beautiful once inside with the blue colour you an only imagine. You are able to jump off the boat an swim in the cave.

St George's Island: This is the place to go swimming. The concrete pontoon has umbrellas, sun chairs and has a full service restaurant. Order you cocktail and bask in the sun before you go for a dip in the crystal clear waters.

Visiting the Castle: Just before sunset, above the old mosque (which is now a museum) sits the old Venetian castle. The walk up to the castle is only 10 minutes, and during sunset is a great spot to watch the sun go down.

400 steps: If you fancy a bit of exercise, then walking up the 400 steps to the top of the island will be for you. Its not an easy walk and because of the heat during the summer months, its best to do this early morning. Once you arrive to the top you get a birds eye view of the whole island and port.

Where to stay

The major Kastellorizo hotel is called The Megisiti Hotel. The hotel is situated on the right hand side of the port. Their rooms are modern, air conditioned and swimming is a breeze as they have their own pontoon you can jump off into the ports crystal clear waters