What to do in Astypalaia
Learn what to do in Astypalaia. Organize the most adventurous excursions and tours on Astypalaia with your friends. Explore the island and experience everything it has to offer. Don’t miss out on any of Astypalaia’s wonders.
1. off-road beaches Tours
Go swimming and enjoy a local goat dish at Kaminakia, then relax with a fresh cocktail after sunbathing at Vatses. The breeze from the canyon, combined with the shade of tamarisk trees, creates the perfect conditions for unwinding. These secluded spots are accessible by road and offer a peaceful escape with stunning coastal views.In the northern part of the island, you can experience the pristine landscapes of Panormos and Chrisi (Psili) Ammos, known for their untouched beauty and clear waters. Chrisi Ammos features some of the island’s wildest landscapes, with its name derived from the unique golden sand. Here, you will witness imposing golden structures created by the same sand.
To visit these astonishing beaches, you’ll need a vehicle capable of handling the difficult dirt roads. Yalos Rent a Car provides a range of adventure vehicles, including ATVs, quad bikes, and ADV motorcycles. These unconventional vehicles are perfect for reaching challenging terrains and discovering hidden beaches off the beaten path. There’s no need to limit your vacation. Plan an off-road excursion with friends across Astypalaia’s rugged landscape and discover a unique way to experience the island’s natural beauty.
2. Villages and settlements excursions
On the eastern side of the island, you’ll find renowned beaches with stunning views and crystal-clear waters. Blue Port is a small bay surrounded by imposing rocks. Plakes, named after the impressive stone slabs, offers a unique approach to sunbathing and swimming. These slabs are perfect for sunbathing and give the beach a distinctive look and feel.
Astypalaia is a small island, but it offers a wealth of activities and experiences. To truly immerse yourself in the island’s magic, we recommend exploring its most secluded settlements and alternative destinations. Discover the distant and tranquil village of Vathi. Here, you will find a small, picturesque port and a unique family restaurant beside the lake of Vathi. The landscapes here are very different from the rest of the island and are well worth experiencing.
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3. Boat Trips
If you are a lover of the Aegean blue, don’t miss organizing a boat tour to the most impressive beaches of Astypalaia. Take a boat from Pera Gyalos and visit the magical beaches of Kounoupa and Koustomitis. Get ready to be amazed by swimming in the clearest waters of Astypalaia.
Visit Koutsomitis, where you can choose between swimming in turquoise waters or exploring the small island. Then, head to Kounoupes and swim on both sides of the sandy strip, experiencing a remarkable double-sided beach.
Make sure your boat excursion also includes a stop at Red Drop. Swim in the green waters and admire the epic view of two steep cliffs surrounding you.
Contact a boat tour company to schedule your excursion.
4. Hiking in astypalaia
In recent years, hiking has become a popular hobby for the local residents of Astypalaia. They have formed a hiking team called Pardalo Katsiki that builds and explores trails all over the island.
Before you set out on any excursion, keep in mind that you need to have water, a hat, sunglasses, light clothes, and sunscreen with you.
During the summer, we recommend starting your hike very early in the morning and always having someone with you who knows the local trails.
Some of the hiking options you have are: Agios Ioannis tou Makri Church – Beach of Agios Ioanni, Agrilidi – Panagia Poulariani – Agios Fokas, Vatses – Cave of Negros, Agios Konstantinos – Agios Savas – Panagia Amorgiani – Agios Konstantinos, Kaminakia beach – Hellenistic tower, Agios Panteleimonas – Panormos
5. Tour in the traditional settlement
The 4.000 sq. m. Venetian Castle of Astypalaia was built in the 13th century by the Kouerini family and is probably the most important attraction of the island. Originally consisting of 400 houses built within the walls with local dark stone, the Castle was the only settlement on the island until the 19th century.
The “archoness” of the island, Chora, sits majestically atop a rocky perch, commanding a breathtaking view of the endless blue sea and the islets stretching out before it. Nestled between Pera Gialos, the island’s old harbor, and Livadi, Chora boasts a captivating charm.
Pera Gialos blends seamlessly into Chora, creating a smooth transition from the old port to the heart of the village. Houses cascade down from the old harbor, with quaint mills adorning the central square, all the way up to the Venetian castle towering above. The church of Evangelismos holds a prominent position within this picturesque landscape, standing out amidst the intricate interplay of houses and castle walls.
