What to Do on the Island of Astypalaia
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The Greek island of Astypalaia is one of those places that seems to lie still, even during the peak tourist season. Surrounded by the crystal blue waters of the sea, this island has become a bit of a safe haven for travelers, especially those who enjoy outdoor activities such as hiking and camping. This is an ideal island for those who not only want a quiet beach holiday, but who also want to spend most of their time outdoors enjoying the beautiful scenery. Here’s a look at what to do while on the island:
Spend Time at the Beach
There are several great beaches to visit on the island of Astypalaia and each of them has its own charm. Many of the beaches on this island are organized and have services, as well as sun bed and umbrella rentals. These include Agios Konstantinos Beach, Pera Gialos Beach, and Maltezana Beach. If visiting other beaches that aren’t organized, such as Pachia Ammos Beach and Plakes Beach, you’ll want to remember to bring your own beach gear.
Visit the Archaeological Museum
Like most places in Greece, Astypalaia has a rich history that dates to Ancient Greece. There are several excavations that have taken place on the island and the museum serves as a place to hold some of the interesting artifacts that were found as well as offering an archaeological history. Although it is small, visitors report that it is interesting and well-maintained.
Go for a Hike
Astypalaia island is not only beautiful, but it is also an idea place for hikers and walkers. While you can always meander through the streets on your own exploring the towns and villages, it is also possible to go on a few organized hikes. Although there are many paths located throughout the island, there are actually only two really well-organized hiking trails. One is on the west side of the island and the other is on the east. If you have plenty of time on the island, you may want to hike both of them. Ask at your hotel or at a tourist information center for more details about these hikes.
Visit the Venetian Castle
Astypalaia is one of those islands that has a Venetian presence that dates back to the time when the Venetians occupied much of the country. The Kastro, also referred to as Astypalaia Castle, is on of those places that you won’t want to miss while visiting here. As is the case with many Venetian castles, this one is set up pretty high, which means that you will need to climb some steps to get here. The effort, however, is worth it. Once you get to the top, you will be able to see some incredible views while also getting the chance to explore this historic castle. Don’t forget to bring your camera!
The island of Astypalaia is most certainly known for its natural beauty. However, there are other things that you can do while visiting, such as enjoying the nightlife, shopping, and eating a great meal. Although this is a quieter island than some of the others in Greece, you will certainly find that there is a lot to do here.
Categorized in: About Astypalaia, Greece, Greek Travel Guide
This post was written by Greek Boston
