A holiday in Greece is always a wonderful experience. Greece has so many beautiful holiday islands that it is very difficult to choose. Because our husbands like windsurfing, the selection was somewhat limited, and we finally decided on Karpathos. Of course, largely because of the excellent wind, but also because the island is still somewhat hidden from mass tourism. So, in July 2007, we set off with a couple of friends to explore Karpathos:
Apartment Agios Nikolaos in Arkassa (2 stars)
We decided on an apartment in Arkassa, a few hundred meters away from the beach, and it wasn't far to the town either. Right by the apartment, there was a small supermarket where we could buy our breakfast (and various swimming items, such as kickboards). The 2-star apartment was large and functionally furnished: a shower, a double bed, a couch, and a kitchen with hot plates. The balcony with a sea view was absolutely great, as the apartment is located slightly above the sandy beach. The sunset on the balcony was a dream. The complex consisted of only a few apartments; in the middle of the complex, there was also a barbecue area and a small children's playground.
There were very good tavernas near the apartment where we had our dinner. We only drove to eat once by car; otherwise, we were always able to reach everything on foot here. There were also a few shops here where we could do a little shopping. The food in all the tavernas we tried was sensational; we were absolutely thrilled.
Agios Nikolaos Beach
The beach is easily accessible on foot in just a few meters. There are sun loungers and umbrellas to rent there. The sandy beach is nice and wide, and you have enough space. Above the beach is a taverna where you can eat and drink, or just enjoy an ice cream. For those who want to come by car, there is a small parking lot right by the beach.
The waves can get quite high on this beach. In our case, the waves were very high in the last few days, and we bought extra kickboards so that we could swim a little in the waves. However, you have to be a good swimmer to keep up here. The beach also kept getting smaller because the waves washed up to the sun loungers.
Apella
A wonderfully quiet beach that features deep, crystal-clear water and fine white sand. There are a few loungers and umbrellas here, but also a few trees that provide wonderful shade and reach down to the rocks by the sea. The water slopes gently and is wonderfully warm.
There wasn't much to see for snorkeling, but I was more fascinated by the landscape and the quiet location here.
You have to bring your own provisions and drinks here, as there are no shops, restaurants, or accommodations in the immediate vicinity. The beach is located approx. 16 km north of Pigadia and is also accessible by car.
Amopi Bay
This beach is on the other side of Arkassa and can be reached quite quickly by car. Amopi Bay is a narrow strip of beach, directly below the town. You can get directly to the beach via a few steps.
The water slopes gently and is great for children to swim and splash around. We did a little snorkeling here; there are several large rocks in the water where you can see a few fish. Above the beach, there are many tavernas and bars, so you definitely won't go hungry or thirsty.
Achata
This beach is a bit more difficult to reach; especially towards the end, you only drive along a lonely gravel road. But this drive is definitely worth it, because a wonderful, quiet beach awaits you.
The fine sand, mighty mountains, and lush vegetation make the beach unique. You can enter the water slowly, as it slopes gently. Snorkelers also get their money's worth, as there are many rocks and a small cave on the left side.
Umbrellas and loungers are sufficiently available, and a taverna also provides food and drink. This beach is located near Aiga Panagia, approx. 13 km north of Pigadia.
Surf Beach Paradise Bay
On the offshore side of Karpathos lies the surf beach Paradise Bay. Here, the wind blows constantly at an average of 5-7 Beaufort. The beach is flat and ideal for practicing. Those who are already more experienced can let themselves drift out to sea with the wind. The Pro Center of Chris Schill has good equipment and was always available with tips. Our husbands were absolutely thrilled with the wind and just zipped across the light blue water with the other surfers.
My friend and I watched the windsurfers from the nice café slightly above the beach. There were cool drinks, snacks, and of course ice cream here. In my opinion, the beach is not so ideal for sunbathing. There are also hardly any loungers and umbrellas, as the wind can be a bit uncomfortable here. It really is more of a surf beach; the wind blows continuously, we didn't have a windless day that week.
Our review
Here are a few more details about our holiday: Unfortunately, we were only on Karpathos for one week in mid-July this year. Anyone who can should definitely spend 2 weeks on holiday here! We couldn't discover everything in one week. The island is ideal for surfers and for those who don't want mass tourism. I also find this island ideal for a family holiday, as the beaches all slope gently and there is sand everywhere.
What you should rather not do on this island is rent a moped, because the wind is much too strong. We rented 2 mopeds and had to turn back halfway because the wind really blew us away. So we rented a car for the four of us, and that was really ideal.
Our tip:definitely visit several beaches; it is really worth it. By the way, my favorite from today's perspective is Apella – but wait and see! That was certainly not my last holiday on Karpathos.
Photos by Sabine, meinhaushalt.at
Read also: Experience report: family vacation in Kos
