AEGEAN’S BUTTERFLY: ASTYPALAIA
The pristine coasts
If you are longing for crystal clear waters, calm atmosphere, peace and quiet, this is your island in the Aegean Sea. Some of the most beautiful beaches is Kaminakia, Vatses, Livadi and Psili Ammos.
Seek adventure at the climbing field in Ftera, just 20 minutes from Chora. The distinct relief of the limestone rock creates two separate slopes and 20 unique paths of multiple levels of difficulty.
Castle on the hill
On top of the hill, a special attraction dominates: the famous castle of Astypalea. It was built by the Kouirini family in the 13th century. It was meant to protect the island from pirates who have been active for centuries in the Aegean Sea. But as the inhabitants increased, the houses began to “overflow” on the slope, reaching today to the edge of the hill at the port of Pera Gialos.
Pirates and caves
The Cave of Negros in Vatses is an interesting sight to discover on the island: it has impressive stalactites and stalagmites and is connected with legends about the pirates and the treasures they stored there. You will need a 45-minute hike from the beach to reach the cave.