North and East Samos

Samos, Ikaria and Fourni

Backed by some of the lushest and most beautiful scenery on Samos, the island's north coast is the perfect choice for keen walkers and nature lovers. The villages of Kokkari and Agios Konstantinos are also very conveniently placed for exploring further afield without the need to hire a car, as the bus service linking Samos Town with the island's second largest town of Karlovassi calls at both these villages. With its bustling seafront promenade, tempting shopping streets and fascinating archaeological museum, Samos Town is definitely worth a visit, whilst Karlovassi's laid-back, provincial charm also makes for an interesting day out.

Situated on a promontory just 10 km west of Samos Town, Kokkari is undoubtedly one of the prettiest villages on the island, and has consequently become a popular and rather cosmopolitan resort. Nevertheless, it has managed to retain its authentic Greek charm, and the old village centre is delightful, comprising narrow streets lined with atmospheric tavernas, traditional kafenions and quirky little shops. The seafront and fishing harbour are equally picturesque and boast further venues for eating, drinking and socialising. In high season, the village becomes pleasantly lively in the evenings, but taking part in any nightlife on offer is entirely optional.

From Kokkari, the coast road skirts several lovely beaches and wooded hillsides until it reaches a cluster of ancient plane trees shading a simple taverna - this marks the entrance to the altogether sleepier village of Agios Konstantinos, as well as the start of the Nightingale Valley, a steep, densely forested river valley of immense natural beauty which leads up to the old village of Manolates. Several other, deeply traditional hill villages can be reached on foot from here, and the truly fit can even ascend to the top of Mount Ambelos, the island's second highest peak at 1,153 metres.

Whilst Agios Konstantinos has grown to accommodate the increasing number of visitors attracted by its splendid natural surroundings, it retains all its original old-world charm, with gracious old stone houses lining the seafront and unpretentious tavernas serving wholesome home cooking. Agios Konstantinos will appeal to those who enjoy the slow pace of life of a traditional Greek village, those who prefer natural pursuits to manmade entertainments, and those who would always pack a pair of walking boots before packing a pair of flip-flops.

The island's east coast is another wonderfully unspoilt area, concealing several idyllic coves from where the views across the narrow strait to the imposing mountain ranges of the Turkish mainland are mesmerising. Our favourites of these are Kerveli and Posidonion, both of which offer scenic surroundings for truly relaxed seaside holidays.

In the island's south-east corner lies the small port and resort of Pythagorion, named after the island's most famous inhabitant, which, despite the fact that it is one of the most popular tourist areas, still retains a very mellow atmosphere, especially around the harbourside in the evenings. Some of the most famous sites on the island, such as the Efpalino Tunnel, a wonder of ancient engineering, and the Heraion, the remains of an ancient temple dedicated to the goddess Hera, are close to Pythagorion as are some excellent beaches.

Beach east of Kokkari