Our excursion program is actively sold by many Tour Operators who chose to take advantage of our excellent service, market knowledge and competitive rates.

Programs can be structured to address the requirements of different target groups including families, youth, elderly and special interest groups eg bird watchers, historical, cooking! etc.

Island Tour

The island Tour is a fascinating excursion, which covers practically all the main sites in Samos, an island of legend and beauty.

Birthplace of Pythagoras and home of the beautiful goddess Hera, Samos stands apart from the islands of the blue Aegean for its unique majesty, cultural traditions and picturesque charm.

The people of Samos are considered to be very friendly and open hearted. The warm hospitality a visitor gets is also something to be admired. Samos is an historic island as well as a verdant one, well known for its vegetation and plant life. The island Tour gives you the opportunity to enjoy Samos thoroughly, whether it concerns archaeological sites, mountains, beaches, villages or other places of interest.

During the tour we visit the hera temple , few of the beautiful samos villages , a small traditional winery , the monastery of timios Stavros or megali panagia and other highlights of the island like pythagorio and Kokkari.

Turkey – Ephesus

A taste of the orient…. Sail away to the coast of Asia Minor to the magnificent town of Kusadasi (New Ephesus) famed for its fascinating shops and bazaars.

Departure at 08:00 from Pythagorio and cruise towards the Orient. Arrival in Kusadasi after 1 ¼ hour boat journey.

On arrival, there is an optional Tour to the ancient site of Ephesus, famous for the temple of Artemis- one of the seven wonders of the world. Then an optional lunch, before returning to Kusadasi, where you still have plenty of time to enjoy the Turkish bazaars where you can find oriental carpets, leathers, jewelry, brass, alabaster etc.

Return to Samos at approx. 18:15 (17.00 departure from Kusadasi).

Captain’s BBQ from Pythagorio

After sailing along the coast in a fishing boat from Pythagorion (starting at 09:30) , anchor before the sandy beach of Samiopoula for a swimm (1 hr) , then you reach the small Beach of Kakoperato where the crew will prepare a meal for you (at about 13:30) while you enjoy swimming in the clear blue waters.

Return at around 18:00

Patmos

Patmos is situated 32 miles south of Samos and is dominated by the imposing Monastery of St.’ John, standing at the top of the Hill above the harbor.

Leaving from Pythagorion at 08:00 you reach this beautiful island after 2 1/2 hours of cruising. This tiny island is part of a submerged volcano and is revered because of St.John who spent his exile here in AD 92. It is said that St John wrote part of the Bible on Patmos, known as the Revelations and (as it is also claimed) the Fourth Gospel.

Dominating the island is the great Monastery, a powerful fortress-like building, which houses some famous scripts and icons, some of which are very rare. The view of Patmos from the Monastery is quite spectacular.

Upon arrival , an optional guided tour will begin and guests will be taken by motor-coach , with the assistance of an experienced guide to the Apocalypses Cave (entrance free of 2 euros to be paid on the spot) for a half an hour visit , and further on to the village of Chora, where they will visit the famous monastery of St.John (entrance free of 4 euros to be paid on the spot) and the museum for an one hour visit and guiding .

After the tour and around 20 minutes of free time , guests return to Skala , where they can spend remaining time with a walk at harbor , rest and have a lunch .

The ferry returns at 16.00 hrs to Pythagorion, where it will arrive approx. 18.30 hrs.

Vourliotes Platanakia Hiking

The tour – after the bus transfer – starts in the mountain village of Vourliotes. You will meet with the guide for a cafe in the village square and talk about the hike as well as the other activities that you will experience  during the day.

After the stop we start our walk across the Nightingale Valley, vineyards, crossing the Kakorema River & then continue our path to the village Manolates through the shaded forest.

In Manolates village we make an one hour stop to explore the artists’ workshops and enjoy lunch in one of the tavernas (not included in the rate) .

Then we continue downhill to the picturesque area of Platanakia, the biggest plane-tree forest of the island to meet the bus for the way back to the hotels.

Samos Coastal Hiking (Drakei)

With its rugged hills and laid-back feel, western Samos is a destination of choice for those in the know. This guided walking route along the cliff-top trails will give you insider access to several of the island’s best beaches – ones that can’t be reached by car. Setting off from the village of Drakei, it’s a scenic walk to the remote Megalo Seitani Beach.

After a well-earned swim and break , it’s time for the second part of the day. Up and over the trails you go, taking in the beach of Potami. The mountainous trails will never be extreme, but when the excursion is done, your legs will be thankful that there’s a coach to bring you back

Crystal clear Kassonisi

Don’t miss this unique excursion, which will take you to the virtually unspoilt paradise pearl of Kassonisi on East Samos!

Kasonisi is a small rocky islet separated from Samos by a narrow strait.   The real attraction is the small strait with its isolated location and turquoise water. The strait is less than 50 meters wide and with less than 1 meter depth at the most shallow part.

We start by boarding on the boat in Pythagorion harbor to go along the east coast. The first stop is at Kassonisi. Here we jump in the water directly from the boat.

Then we continue towards the beach of Posidonion. Here you can choose to either swim directly from the boat or sunbathe and swim from the beach.

Unspoiled Samiopoula from Votsalakia port

Samiopoula ,  its name means small Samos and can be easily accessed from the ports of Pythagorion and Votsalakia.

Come with us on a day trip to Samiopoula from Votsalakia, where you can spend your day swimming and relaxing in the beautiful sea, with our friendly captain and crew.

While you are there you can have fun swimming from the boat , doing a variety of water games and diving. At 1:00 pm a tasty, home made lunch is served on the boat . At around 14:30 we sail. On our way back you have the opportunity for one more stop in a different beach depending on the weather .

West Coast Pearls

The towering peak of Mount Kerkis provides a dramatic backdrop to the peaceful scene below.  Lot of small deserted bays and unique beautiful beaches, caves to explore!

Enjoy a daily cruise from Votsalakia. An unforgettable day with captain Vaggelis taking you to unique beaches reached only by boat!!

The Monastery of Hagios Ioannis Theologos and the Cave of the Apocalypse commemorate the site where St John the Theologian (Divine), the ‘Beloved Disciple’, composed two of the most sacred Christian works, his Gospel and the Apocalypse. Pátmos is the northernmost island of the Dodecanese group with an area of some 88 km2 , is largely barren, formed from three volcanic masses connected by narrow isthmuses. There are three settlements: the medieval Chorá, the 19th-century harbour of Skála, and the small rural Kampos. The site selected by Christodoulos for his Monastery of Hagios Ioannis Theologos dominates the whole island. There are excursions from the Port of Pythagorio to Patmos.

More than anywhere else, the Greek and Roman world comes alive at Ephesus. After almost 150 years of excavation, the city’s recovered and renovated structures have made Ephesus Europe’s most complete classical metropolis – and that’s with 82% of the city still to be unearthed!

As capital of the roman asia minor Ephesus was a vibrant city of over 250,000 inhabitants maybe even 400.000 . Counting traders, sailors and pilgrims to the famous temple of artemis these numbers were even higher, meaning that in Ephesus one could encounter the full diversity of the Mediterranean world and its peoples. So important and wealthy was Ephesus that its Temple of Artemis was the biggest on earth, and one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World. The ancient city site is located around 30km away from Kusadasi port. There are daily excursions from samos to Kusadasi/ Ephesus.

CAVES

The cave of Kakoperato (bad passage in greek)

It is located on the Southwest of Kosmadeoi village about 45 minutes’ distance from it. Before the cave there is a Metochi by the name Chatzimanolis with a little temple of Zodochos Pigi and a two storey building with cells. Further on walking for another fifteen minutes and with great difficulty on a most narrow path hard to walk along and dangerous for about 300 meters one meets the entrance of the cave where Pious Hermits had built a small temple also of Zodochos Pigi. The cave is 30 meters high and 8 meters wide. In its deepest end there is a small hollow where water is gathered from stalagmites. The sound creates a feeling of fear and when the wind blows small rocks fall from the eastern harsh side of Kerkis above.

The Cave of Panaghia the Sarantaskaliotissa

It is located at the south eastern side of Kerkis, in the region of the village Marathokampos. Upon ascending 40 stairs one enters the cave. On its outer side there is a small temple dedicated to the Genethlion of Theotokos. In the cave there is a little hollow which fills with water by stalagmites and further on the chasm starts.

The Cave of Panagia the Makrini

Setting out from the village of Kalithea and after walking for more than an hour, one reaches the Northwest side of Kerkis where at a height of 800 meters above sea level there is the cave of Macrini. This cave is rather high and wide. In it, a temple is built called Kimisis Theotokou ( in the past, it was the holy place where the ascets lived).

The Cave of Agia Triada

This cave is situated above the cave of Makrini and it is reached after a difficult climb of about ten minutes. At the left of the entrance there is a temple worshipping the Agia Trias. On the side and to the south of the temple there is a narrow path which people can penetrate for about 70 metres. Afterwards the passage becomes too narrow for further walking.

The Orifice of Panaretou

This is located south of cave of Kakoperato. It’s only fifteen minutes away from the latter. It bears no resemblance to the other caves but it’s more like a deep well. Its circumference is thirteen meters. Around 1815 A.C and on the day we worship Saint John, priest Panaretos from Fourni felt especially joyful and wished to go down into it. He tied a rope to a rock and started descending. After a while he felt dizzy and fell in. According to others, he carelessly brought the flames of his candle too close to the rope, burned it, and thus fell in the chasm. His two companions Ionnikios and Adreas tried to go down as well in order to save him. Unfortunately, they fell in as well. Because this priest died there, the cave took his name.

The Cave Kandyli

It is situated on the north west side of Kerkis at a height of 800m above sea level. During dark and cloudy nights a light shines from the cave, seen by many. A shepherdess who had led her goats to the pasture, suddenly realised that a goat had fallen in the hole. With extreme difficulty she managed to go down after the goat. There, dumbfound she saw the dead body of a holy man lying with burning incense and candles around him. She also heard beautiful psalms being sung. Full of ecstasy and panic, she went up the precipice and ran to her relatives to announce the vision. When she came back with her relatives, she was unable to find it. This incident was incorporated into the local tradition, that in the above mentioned cave there must lie the body of John the Evagelist according to the Lord’s words to Apostle Petros.

The Cave of Pythagoras

This is situated to the south east side of Mount Kerkis. Its area is approximately 200 square meters. The ascend is most difficult. It is believed that the philosopher Pythagoras was an ascete there.

According to the Greek speleological Association, in Samos there are 67 caves.
There are not organised tours through the caves and individuals who visit them are strongly recommended to take great care!

CASTLES

In Samos there are many small castles, which were built by the Samiots for protecting against the pirates.

CASTLE LOULOUDAS

Is 600m above sea-level, about 30 minutes north-east of the Monastery of Vrontiani. It was named from the daughter of a priest who committed suicide on this rocky peak. Today one can see the foundations of a temple being 2 metres high. Also there are traces of an aqueduct and of a tank.

CASTE LAZAROU

It is located in one of the summits of Mount Ambelos, West of Kastro Louloudas, and South of the Monastery of Vronta. It is about one hour from the Monastery. One can see part of the walls and the foundations of a temple.

CASTLE SARANTIDON

Above the village of Kontakeika and to the East, there is the castle of Sarantides. One can see the walls of a Byzantine church which was built on the ground.

CASTLE LYCOURGOS

The most well-preserved castle on the island. It is located in Pythagorion next to the church of the Transfiguration. It was built on the foundations of an older Venetian castle and it served as a jumping-off point for attacks against the Turks.

TOWER OF SARAKINI

On the outskirts of Ireon is the Tower of Sarakini. Sarakinis, was the Turkish captain’s bosun, who first pointed the island out to Kilitz Pasha who in turn gave this tower to Sarakinis. The Tower belongs to the Monastery of St’ John the Divine on Patmos.

One of the most significant works carried out during the Polycrates era. Even today one is filled only with admiration for the skill of the man from Megara. The tunnel was designed to carry water to the capital of the island. From historical records it is known that the piercing of the mountain started from both sides of the mountain, with the aim of meeting halfway. By assiduous digging, both teams of workers managed to meet inside the mountain, with the small difference in elevation of a couple of feet from one side to the other. The task took many years, and the tunnel has a total length of 1.350 metres. The other opening, on the other side of the mountain, is 1.70 metre high. There is a portal with an inscription at the entrance of the tunnel. The tunnel was constructed with the aid of primitive tools, without the help of measuring instruments, and the visitor is gripped with wonder when he thinks of this remarkable accomplishment.

The Castle of Lycourgos Logothetis (Pythagorion)

Built during the first years of the last century on the foundations of an older Venetian castle, is located next to the Church of the Transfiguration. It served as a jumping-off point for attacks on the Turks and as a refuge in time of danger during the difficult years of the War of Independence (1824).

Monastery of Spiliani (Pythagorion)

About one kilometre from Pythagorion on the slope of Mountain Kastri is located the Monastery of PanaghiaSpiliani. Inside a deep cave is the small chapel of the Madonna. Outside the cave, there are coves that used to be the cells where the monks lived, as well as a newer small church.

Hera Temple (Ireon)

The road which runs to Hereon passes through the fertile plain, running close to the shore. The famous temple of Hera was built in this area as the ancients believed that this was where the goddness was born. Menodotus says that the temple was constructed by the Leleges and the Nymphs, while Pausanias claims that the Argonauts were responsible for finding it. The first structure was destroyed and a second Temple was built during the 8th or 7th century, only to be destroyed in turn by the forces of King Cyrus of Persia. The third temple ( of which one incomplete column is seen to be standing today) was built under the rule of Polycrates by the Samiot architect Rhoikos. When the Persians once more destroyed it, Polycrates assigned the task of constructing the fourth temple to Theodoros, son of Rhoikos. Herodotus says that this temple was the largest and most luxurious that he ever saw. It was built in mixed Doric and Ionic Order, and was dipteral – with a length of 108.73 m, a width of 54.68 m and a height of 25 m.

The Ancient theatre (Pythagorion)

On the slope of Mountain Kastri, near the Monastery of Spiliani and at a somewhat lower elevation are found the ruins of the ancient Theatre.

Other Archaeological sites

• Roman Baths
• Many ruins of temples in other parts of the island

The newest Museum of the island , opened in the year 2011 . It is housed in a new modern building just few hundred meters from the bus station . It contains finds from many periods: grave reliefs from the 6th century B.C, solemn capitals, statues (including three outstanding Archaic ones), Romans busts, marble plaques with epigrams of salutes to dead, many marble columns and go on.

Palaeontological museum ( Mytilini)

Unique in Greece, with quite a collection of relics from the far-off past. A huge graveyard of enormous pre-historic beasts has been discovered near here, containing the bones of many animals clearly recognisable as forerunners of today’s wild and domestic life. Palaeontologists have named one of these animals Samotherion, after the island. It was a kind of giant giraffe. Bones have also been found of the Samos pygmy horse (with three toes on each foot), arhoniceros head with fearful jaws and sharp teeth, the shoulder-blade of an elephant, tiger teeth and bones, and remnants of lions, wolves and hyenas.

Archaeological Museum ( Samos Town)

Samos Museum is regarded as being one of the most interesting provincial museums in Greece. The museum contains the marble sculpture of “Kouros” (male youth) which is 5.5 meters high and the largest statue of “Kouros” in Greece.There are exhibits from the Archaic Period, a large number of pieces of sculpture from the 5th, 6th and 7th centuries B.C, kores and kouroi ( above life-size), sarcophagi, Ionian columns and much more. Also included in the collection are pieces from the Hellenistic period, such as statues (above life size, again), grave relics and votive offerings. The upper floor contains chiefly finds from the German excavations at the Heraion, including sculptures from the Classical, Hellenistic and Roman periods, Geometric, Archaic and Classical pottery, bronze, ivory, and wood statuettes and artefacts from the Geometric and Archaic ages, pottery from Rhodes and Laconia, statuettes and vessels from Cyprus, statuettes from Egypt, Persia and Assyria, pre-historic vessels from the Heraion, funeral gifts from the Mycenean grave in the village of Myli, etc.

Wine Museum (Samos)

The Samos’ wine museum, was inaugurated in the summer of 2005 . The space housing the museum was initially a privately-owned winery and, later, the Samos Wine Union’s cellar/warehouse and cooperage. The building itself is a “living” exhibit, with huge wooden casks from the early 20th century still in mint condition, although not in actual use. Traditional wine making, its tools, its vats and tubs and its chemistry equipment, even the art of fashioning a barrel come to life through exhibits that spin visitors back into remote fragments of centennial time. Documents, prizes and awards, bottles of wine, photographs, desk mementos and objects all contribute to complete the historic puzzle. An ingenious simulation depicting the cultivation of grape vines on their steep terraced perches (as it is customary on the island) from the moment they take root to the moment they are tenderly picked excites the imagination of visitors who may then wish to visit the two cellars, one reserved for barrels, the other for bottles of wine.

Byzantine Museum (Samos)

There are rare displays relics of Christian civilization and art such as manuscripts, letters and bulls from the patriarchal, holly ecclesiastic items and the vestments of eminent Head Priests, such as the cloak of the national martyr Patriarch Gregory V.

The most picturesque fishing harbour in Samos, which is now developed into a large tourist centre. A small peninsula full of houses which climb up to the top of the hill with a small harbour on one side and superb sandy beach on the other. The tavernas, cafes and the shops make for a unique image. As you continue North-West, you pass the fine beach known as Lemonakia, one of the most dazzling, small, lush coves on Samos. Another two kilometres bring you to Tsamadou bay, with a good beach which is much frequented by sun-bathers in the summer. About fifteen minutes walk beyond the village there is the locality Mana, where, under the shade of the many plane trees found there and the clean waters of the natural spring “Mana”, is the country Chapel of St’ Panteleimon. This Saint, is believed to be the Patron Saint of the village and his holiday is celebrated on the 27th of July. On this occasion a great Fiesta takes place with lots of dancing, music and singing. Tsamadou and Lemonakia are only 2 kms away.

Avlakia

Five kilometres from Kokkari, you come to the small seaside village of Avlakia, where there is a good beach with restaurants. It is inhabited mainly by few fishermen.

Vourliotes

An asphalt covered road, branching-off from the main road, outside Avlakia, takes us to this village, a true balcony to the sea which is located 340 meters above sea-level. At its coffee-shops and tavernas, the visitor is assured of satisfactory and prompt service. Vourliotes is a leading producer of Muscat grapes and wine. The climate is fresh and there is abundant water with the rich Pnaka filament. At a distance of 2 kms from the village is the Monastery of Panagia Vrontiani, the oldest on Samos. It was built in the 16th century. From here it is about 3 hours on foot to the summit of Mountain Karvouni ( 1,153 m).

Manolates

From the main coastal road you cross the famous nightingale forest and reach the village of Manolates which is situated at an elevation of 350 meters. In the little coffee-shops you will find the locals and also the walkers, enjoying the view while drinking their coffee or Samian wine.In this village there are many old houses built of stone with projecting balconies. The surface of the narrow streets and idyllic little square are decorated with whitewashed floral designs.

Agios Konstantinos

An attractive seaside village of 400 inhabitants just under Manolates , with many restaurants and coffee shops .

Platanakia / Nightingale forest

Following the coastal road, we reach Platanakia. A lovely sea-shore with plane-trees and country restaurants. The branching-off roads- covered with cement- passes through a wide ravine replete with plane-trees, laurel-trees, myrtle-shrubs, running streams. This ravine is called Aidonia (Nightingales) because during spring and summer, if one happens to be there in the very early hours of morning- before daybreak- one will hear the very enchanting melodies of the nightingales that happen to live among this ravine.

Ambelos (Nenedes)

A concrete covered road, branching off from the main one, takes us up to this village. Here, on the 23rd of September, when the capture of John the Baptism is celebrated, a big celebration takes place with lots of dancing and singing, to the accompaniment of local music.

Karlovassi

The second largest town and harbour in Samos. An island town, unique design, it is divided into five sections: old, New and middle Karlovassi, the bay and the harbour. Karlovassi was formerly the commercial and industrial capital of the island, and before the last war had grown rich on the leather trade. Its tanneries were famous throughout the Balkans, and some can still be seen today. A stroll around the town will provide ample evidence of past glories, with mansions, large and impressive churches and deserted factories. At the same time, however, the town did not ignore the arts, and there were potteries. The island’s first newspaper was published here. Today there are only a few light industries dedicated to ceramics, wall decorations and weaving. Karlovassi was the home of Lycourgos Logothetis, the rebel from 1821 and the Governor of Samos, and also of the popular troubadour of the Greek Revolutions, Cleantis. In the past, there were great celebrations here at Carnival time, and one old custom which has survived in the procession of « the Bier of Our Lady» on August 15. The harbour is a stopping-place for the Piraeus-Samos boats, and serves all the villages in the area. There is fine scenery in the spots known as Pefkakia ( or Parko) and the hill of Agia Katerina in New Karlovassi. In Middle Karlovassi, the Kotron area has kept many examples of traditional architecture, while Old Karlovassi is dominated by a green hill which stands the dazzling white church of the Holy Trinity. Karlovasi is also a university town , part of the University of the Aegean.

Idroussa (Fourni)

At an altitude of 400m. The village stands on the edge of a steep cliff, among thick vegetation with streams which permit the operation of a water-mill.

Lekka

It has a population of about 500 and stands at 165m above sea level. Is accounted one of the prettiest village of Mountain Fterias, which is part of the Kerkis range.

Kosmadei

At an elevation of 600meters is the highest village on Mountain Kerkis.

Kastania

At a height of 473 metres, we reach this densely wooded village with running streams with crystal clear waters. Most of the trees are chestnut-trees ( from which the village derives its name). We also find many walnut trees, pine trees and poplar trees. Every year on the 30th of August, a pilgrimage takes place this spot in the village, where many inhabitants where shot dead in 1943.

Marathokampos

This village stretches along the side of the mountain Fterias ( which is part of Mount Kerkis) and from here, we see across the large expanse of sea the island of Patmos. From this village, the road descends onto Ormos Marathokampou, with its very wide beach. On the 6th kilometre along this road we come across the harbour of Ormos with its small settlement. On both sides of the harbour stretches an endless beach. In the area of the harbour and the place called Votsalakia of this bay, one finds many tavernas and restaurants that cater to the needs of tourists. The name of the village – Marathokampos- derives from the old Greek word Marathos which means a coastal, sandy area, and Kampos, which means, plain

Kalithea

Is built on a kind of balcony overlooking the sea to the West, with a fine view, plenty of trees and courtyards full of flowers and plants. Wine is produced here, apples and walnuts are grown, and there is a wood-cutting trade. The village has a population of 300.

Platanos

One of the most beautiful villages on the island. It is built on the saddle between Mountain Kerkis and Mountain Ambelos, at a height of 520 metres. The view is tremendous, the vegetation thick and the water fresh. Wine and grapes are produced.

Koumeika

In the centre of the square of this fine village are stone fountains, pouring their water forth ceaselessly beneath the ancient plane trees and next to the picturesque coffee-shops.

Neochori

This village is built in a green valley, and steep gorges and precipices are to be found nearby, as well as olive groves of olive trees famous for the quality of their oil.

Spatharei

Built at an elevation of 550m on the slopes of Mountain Bournias , with a fine view over south-west Samos and out to Fourni, Ikaria and the Dodecanese.

Pyrgos

The village is a leading producerof wine and apples and stands on a mountain. It has many springs and produces a variety of grapes known for their fleshiness. The village is set among green hills, birches, cherry-trees, cypresses, apple-trees and vineyards

Pandross

Also known as Arvanites stands at 600m above sea level and is one of the highest villages on the island.

Koumaradei

This little village also produces good oil, from a special local variety of olive, oranges, apples and quinces. A minor road that runs out of the village leads to the Monastery of Our Lady « Megali», one of the richest on the island. Another monastery in the area is that of the Holy Cross which is among the oldest on the island.

Mavratzei

The village is a leading producerof wine and apples and stands on a steep slope among pines and olives. The village has a long tradition of pottery-making, and water jugs, mugs and bowls are among the items offered for sale by local craftsmen. The village has many springs and produces a variety of grapes.

Chora

The old capital of the island dating back to the time in the Middle Ages when re-colonisation began. The village stands at the foot of Mountain Ambelos, and at the start of the plain called after the town.

Ireon

The coastal settlement of Heraion, one of the largest tourist centres in Samos, has a splendid beach.

Myloi

The three springs that have their sources here near the village, supply with water the Imvrassos River, which is also called the stream of Myloi. Near the school of the village was found by chance a Mycenaean tomb which is constructed of firestone. Inside the grave were two human skeletons and many personal objects from the deceased. As is surmised from the number and nature of these objects, the tomb must have belonged to prominent persons.

Pagondas

This pretty village is the island’s chief producer of olive oil, with many modern oil-presses and an Oil-producers « Co-operative. Oranges, wine and grapes are also produced.

Mytilini

It is believed that there used to be the ancient town of Hissia, and the ravine that cuts across its valley was the river Hissios. It is believed that in the very ancient times in this town, the ruling social order was that of Matriarchy ( rule of the women), for theabolition of which a deadly battle took place. This is deduced from the Myth about the Amazons whom Dionyssos hotly pursued and finally killed. Here were found ancient plaques without bearing any inscriptions, as well as a relief with inscription. This relief portrays a man, a woman and a child, seated round a table ( Museum of Samos). Here also one can find the Palaeontological Museum.

Pythagorion

Pythagorion is built on a small part of the area once occupied by the ancient city ofSamos. This ancient city was destroyed as a result of the frequent raids and sundry conquerors. During the times of the frequent raids by pirates and the period of Turkish occupation, the inhabitants abandoned the city, and others found refuge in other more secure places, whereas others left the island altogether, for safety. The ancient ruins, many relics of which are saved to this day, and the ancient writings on the other hand, bear witness to the greatness, large size and beauty of this ancient city. Today, Pythagorion is considered to be the most developed part of the island and in regard to enchantment and services, many of places tourists finds in the other well known tourist places. The quayside along the harbour, which is constructed on the foundations of the ancient War Harbour of Polycrates, with its many coffee-shops, bars, tavernas and tourist shops, makes one feel as he is living through a continual Fiesta. It is indeed a treat to be sitting in a comfortable chair along this beautiful quayside, to be caressed by the fresh breeze and savour one’s snack or delicious food, to look at the sun as it rises, in the morning, or the moon, as it casts its light, at night, and to watch its reflection on the open sea. The beach – which is on the little charming bay just next to the harbour-, and the beach on the other side of the harbour, a little beyond the town’s houses, which stretches over to the area of the Hereon, induces in one the feeling of intense contentment.

TIMIOS STAVROS ( Mavratzei)

One of the oldest on the island built in 1582 by Nelios. Inside a deep cave is located the chapel of the Madonna.Outside the cave there are a few small buildings and a chapel more recently constructed.

AGIA ZONI ( Vlamari)

It was build in 1695 by the Monk Meletios. It is located in Vlamari just 3 kilometres from Samos Town. There are beautiful wall paintings and the Temple is build in the style of Basilica. Renovated in the year 2013 .

ZODOCHOS PIGI ( Vlamari)

It was build in the 17th century by the monk Dorotheos. It is situated on the west of the plain of Vlamari on the top of a hill. The temple is of the Byzantine Cross Order.

OF THE EVANGELISTRIAS

A road that branches-off from the main road from Spathareoi to Pagondas leads us to the outer gate of this monastery which is for women.

PANAGIA VANGELISTRA (Marathokampos/Mountain Kerkis)

It is located over the beach of Votsalakia within the confines of a forest on Mount Kerkis. It is a convent for nuns and follows the Gregorian calender.

AGIOS IOANNIS THE ALMONER

It is under the ecclessiastical jurisdiction of the church of the Holy Sepulchre in Jerusalem. It is a little below the village of Paliochori in the area of Marathokampos near an enchanting seaside.

PANAGIA VRONTIANI (Vourliotes)

At a distance of 2 kms from Vourliotes is the Monastery of PanagiaVrontiani, the oldest in Samos. It was built in the 16th century.

SAINT SPYRIDON (Samos Town)

This church is situated in the capital of Samos, Vathy, on the Square of AgiosSpyridon. It is a church of an historic importance because it is the place where the decision to unite Samos with the rest of Greece was taken.

HOLY SAVIOUR

In Potami, we walk through a path which leads into the hills through scenery which the locals compare to Switzerland. At the foot of the mountain there is the chapel of the Holy Saviour (14th century).

PANAGIA SPILIANI (Pythagorio)

This fine monastery is located in the village of Phythagorio, in the southern part of the island. Its name means the Monastery of the Virgin of the Grotto. It is located two kilometersSoutheast of the village of Koumaradei and on the side of the road that leads to Miloi, in a very nice environment with an altitude of 225 meters. It has a lovely view of the plain of Chora, Pythagorio and the Asia Minor coast (the mountain of Mikali). It was founded in 1586 the monks (and brothers as well) Neilos and Dionysios and it is dedicated to the Assumption. It has to show a very nice woodcut temple, some frescoes and a lot of holly ware.

Sandy beach with very shallow waters only 1 mile from the coast of Turkey and 10 kilometres from Samos. There are fish tavernas and cafeterias. Organised beach / Family.

Mykali (South-East of Samos)

Before reaching Psili Ammos. The beach is covered with pebbles, but as we wade in the water, we find the bottom covered with sand. It is very clean and open to the wide sea. Couple of restaurants on the west side. Mostly not organised beach.

Potokaki (South-East of Samos)

An immense sand/ small pebble beach outside of Pythagorion, very near to the airport. Many tourists gather here and we find restaurants, cafeterias, taverns, and bars. There are water sports facilities. Organised beach.

Hereon (South-East of Samos)

21 kilometres from Samos. Small beach with pebbles. With restaurants and cafeterias. Partly organised.

Votsalakia / Kampos (South-West of Samos)

55 kilometres from Samos. A sandy beach. The waters are very clear. There are several restaurants and cafeterias. Partly organised.

Chrissi Ammos (South-West of Samos)

Also a beautiful shallow sandy beach 60 kilometres from Samos Town with a very clear sea. Organised beach / family.

Limnionas (South-West of Samos)

Charming sandy beach, a little further on from Chrissi Ammos.Organised beach / family.

Kaladakia Beach (West-South of Samos)

This beautiful pebble beach is tucked away from the wind just minutes away from the town of Koumeika.  It is known for its majestic Blue Cave and its wonderful turquoise waters.  Partly-organized.

Potami (West-North of Samos)

4 kilometres west of Karlovassi. An open beach covered with pebbles. It has restaurants and cafeterias. Organised beach.

Kokkari (East-North of Samos)

Stony beach within the village limits. Surfing center. Organised beach.

Lemonakia (East-North of Samos)

One of the most dazzling, small lush coves on Samos with a marvelous pebble beach. The sea bottom is strewn with pebbles but otherwise very clear waters.Organised beach.

Tsamadou (East-North of Samos)

One kilometre further away Kokkari and just before Lemonakia, beach with pebbles and identical otherwise to that of Lemonakia Is much frequented by bathers in the summer.Organised beach.

Avlakia (East-North of Samos)

A small pebble beach with few restaurants and nice view to Kokkari. Not organised.

Mourtia (East of Samos)

A road just before the Monastery of Zodochos Pigi to the right leads to the gorgeous, lush bay of Mourtia. Not organised.

Balos (West-South of Samos)

Known for its sand-baths and water to aid the digestion, which wells up right by the sea. Balos is only 3kms from the village of Koumeika. Partly organised.

Mikro-Megalo Seitani (North-West of Samos)

Two of the most isolated and beautiful bays in the whole of the Aegean and some of the finest coastline on the island.Both beaches are sanctuary of the seal Monachus-Monachus. Accessible by path or from the sea. Not organised.

Glycoriza (South-East of Samos)

Small pebble beach just outside Pythagorion . Organised beach.

Tsambou (East North of Samos)

Very picturesque beach immediately after the village of Avlakia, clear waters and quiet.

Possidonion (East South of Samos)

This is a charming, quiet bay, ideal for bathing and fishing. During the middle ages it was called «the harbour of the Venetians». During the Turkish occupation it took on the name Mullah-Ibrahim, from the name of a Turkish religious leader who drowned there. Today’s historical name of the bay owes its origin to the two Temples of Neptune ( In Greek Poseidon) that used to be there in the days of Antiquity. A few relics from both can be seen to this day. Not organised pebble beach with cafeteria and a nice fish restaurant.