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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 regular 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.
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