The Dodecanese is an island group in the south-eastern Aegean Sea, located just off the coast of Turkey. Being in Greece’s farthest corner, they not only enjoy an enviable sunshine record but a very strategic location. Known for their beautiful beaches, small, whitewashed villages, and rich history and culture – there is so much to discover here, and more.
Below are 5 of our must-see resorts and attractions:
1. Rhodes: The capital of the Dodecanese, Rhodes is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the most popular tourist destinations in Greece. The city is home to a stunning Old Town, which is surrounded by medieval walls. There are also many beaches, including the famous Lindos Beach, which is known for its white sand and clear waters.
Insider tip: Outside the walls there is plenty to see and do. The surrounding modern town is lively and cosmopolitan with long beaches to the west. Inland, the island is fertile and hilly with many villages to explore.
2. Patmos: Patmos is a small island with religious significance. It is home to the Monastery of St John the Theologian, where the Book of Revelation was written. Founded in the 11th century, the monastery contains treasures second only to Athos. The best way to visit is by a 40 minute walk up the shaded cobbled path from Skala, via the Cave of the Apocalypse where St John received the Word of God.
Insider tip: The attractive port of Skala is the best place to stay. It is a bustling, sophisticated little place with elegant cafes, fine tavernas and unique shops hidden in narrow backstreets.
3. Kalymnos: Kalymnos, just a short ferry ride from Kos, welcomes you with open arms and a warm Greek hospitality. Whether you seek the lively energy of Pothia, the island's main port bustling with cafes and tavernas, or the quieter charm of Emborios in the north, Kalymnos offers something for everyone across its 21km stretch. Renowned as a rock climbers haven, the island also draws off season hikers and outdoor enthusiasts. If you're into water adventures, scuba diving and sea kayaking are both available. Pothia, the capital, has a distinct Greek feel with its hillside alleys leading to neoclassical mansions.
Insider tip: Don't miss the chance to to explore nearby destinations on a boat excursion. Pserimos, Kos, and Leros can all be reached from the harbour.
4. Symi: Symi, a captivating island with timeless charm, is home to grand neoclassical houses and mansions that line the bay and climb the steep hill behind. The azure sea provides a picturesque backdrop for this picture-perfect scene, and the impressive harbour is a testament to Symi's seafaring history. This small island is a haven for those seeking tranquillity amidst stunning landscapes, with some of the most beautiful beaches in the Dodecanese.
Insider tip: Visit Chorio and Yialos in the evening when the lights of the town and the waterfront restaurants reflect from the bay to create a very special mood. Chorio also has good tavernas and can have a lively traditional village atmosphere.
5. Tilos: Tilos is a small, unspoiled island with a vibrant ecosystem that is a haven for nature enthusiasts. From its rugged landscapes to its pristine beaches, Tilos allows you to reconnect with your natural surroundings. There are 67kms of signed walking trails which run through untamed countryside, linking rugged mountains with fertile valleys of wildflowers, pine, oak, and almond watered by the island’s many underground springs.
Insider tip: Together with its surrounding archipelago of 16 uninhabited islets, the island has been designated an Important Bird Area, an EU-registered Special Protection Area and a Natura 2000 site amongst others. Springtime on Tilos attracts flocks of migratory birds: Barn swallows, common and alpine swifts, house martins and colourful European bee-eaters.
Our blog just scratches the surface of just a few of the must-see resorts and attractions of the Dodecanese. You can contact our team on 020 8758 4758 for further information and advice. We also offer island hopping holidays here.