The island complex of Dodecanese in south-eastern Aegean is the sunniest corner in Greece. Twelve large islands and numerous smaller ones with crystal clear waters, sandy or pebbly beaches, important archaeological finds, imposing Byzantine and medieval monuments and unique traditional settlements are waiting to be discovered. The smallest of these islands offer a range of secluded harbours – a relic of their trading past – whilst all offer an abundance of stunning beaches and dramatic terrain, best viewed from the water, of course. Across all twelve islands and 150 less known islets are countless Byzantine churches and medieval castles, and the climate is between temperate and dry tropical, with an extended dry summer period.
Start your boat holiday from either Kos or Rhodes, which are the largest and most cosmopolitan of the Dodecanese, and sail on to some of the most beautiful and fascinating islands Greece has to offer. With limestone cliffs to climb in Kalymnos, “the island of the sea sponge harvesters”, and uncover the rich folklore of Kárpathos where villagers still wear traditional dress to the beautiful mansions and a picturesque harbor to admire in Symi, and numerous beaches and historical sites, there really is something for every taste. Nisyros is something a little different – built on an active volcano with suitably dramatic landscapes best viewed from the sea. Leros and Tilos are small and charming, and historical Patmos is where St. John wrote his Book of Revelation.
