Around Samos Island
Samos Town (Vathi)
Once a grand and wealthy island in the Aegean boasting a temple to rival anything in Athens the island has now turned itself over to the tourist trade. No where else is this more apparent than in Samos Town, buildings specifically for the tourist trade have sprung up and the usual touristy shops abound. Having said this Samos is no worse than any other island trying to cash in on the tourist trade.
Samos Town is the provincial capital of the island and the main port. The town seems to be split into two distinct areas, the new development is centred around the harbour while a walk up the hill amongst the older houses takes you back into time.
The town does still have some of its old Greek charm and you will find enough archaeological sites and museums such as the Archaeological Museum Plateia Agios Spyridonon to keep you occupied if this is of particular interest. A walk through the maze of little streets gradually climbing upwards is worth it for the architecture and to take in the atmosphere of the town.
The restaurants, tavernas, bars and cafes line the main road back from the water front and offer a good variety of food and drinks.
Kerveli
Kerveli is very quite, a shingle beach that never seems to get over crowded and a few taverna that can supply and lunch and a cool beer. You do need transport to get to this beach but if it’s a quiet beach you are looking for, try Kerveli.
Pythagorio
The area of Pythagirio has many sandy and shingle beaches that start from a small harbour and extends along the coast. There are many restaurants, bars and shops all catering for the tourist’s needs. This area is probably the main area for the packaged holiday industry. It has not lost all its charm and is fairly laid back compared with Samos Town.
Karovasi
Karovasi is the islands second port. The port itself now has many hotels and restaurants that line its waterfront. The coastline around Karovasi has many fine beaches but the town beach can be a little disappointing.
Gagou
This is really lovely spot. The beach is sand and shingle and the water clean and clear. A number of restaurants and bars can be found but nothing over the top. The resort is fairly quiet compared to its neighbour Samos town.
Kokari
Kokari has two good shingle beaches but they do seem to get over crowded in the height of the season. The little harbour is worth visiting with numerous tavernas, bars and shops near by. If you like to explore the Greek villages this is an ideal base, local villages such as Vourliotes offer that old Greek charm and beauty.
Votsalakia
Excellent long sand and shingle beach but this area is a little over developed and can get a little to crowded at times. If you’re feeling energetic why not try climbing the local mountain Kerketefs. If you are into photography the views from the mountain are stunning.
Tzamadou Beach
This beach is a lovely stretch of sand, shingle and pebbles much favoured by naturists. It is understandably therefore more difficult to get to than most beaches. There is a small taverna on this beach and it is well worth the effort.
Psilli Ammos
Psilli Ammos is a beautiful sandy bay. Because it is such a beautiful spot the beach does get quite crowded with the taxi boats delivering tourists. Behind the beach is a like named after Flamingos that visit this area, however, during summer months it tends to dry out and the Flamingos disappear.
Potakaki
The beach is shingle and sand and stretches some distance, unfortunately the best parts of the beach have seen the sun bed and brolly brigade take over, with line after line of sun beds. The resort has been developed with hotels to cater for the influx of tourists and this has spoilt the area to an extent.
Tsopela
A little sand and shingle cove with stunning views of the Gorge that backs onto this resort. A favourite for the many boats that visit and anchor just off shore. This beach has sun beds and a taverna during the high season.
Potami
The area around Potami is stunning and is known for its water falls and rock pools. The beach is a beautiful little bay made up of sand, shingle and pebbles with crystal clear water, however, it can get quite crowded at times.
