Bask in Aegean sunshine as you hop through the Dodecanese islands of Kos, Leros, Lipsi and Patmos. Start in vibrant Kos, where ancient ruins whisper tales of Asclepius, beaches beckon and streets thrum with life. Your next stop is Leros, with a bustling little port and uncrowded beaches dotted around its twisting shores. The island has the same long history as its neighbours but is also known for the WW2 Battle of Leros - the war museum is fascinating. From Leros it is just a 20 minute hop to Lipsi, a tranquil haven where turquoise waters lap at pastel shores and time slows. Conclude your journey in mystical Patmos, where the imposing Monastery of Saint John looms and hidden coves offer serenity. This island combination promises history, sun-drenched relaxation, and a taste of authentic Greek island charm. Our island-hopping itineraries are mere suggestions and our trips tailored to suit your wishes and dreams. There are no rigid rules.
Itinerary includes:
- Return flights to Kos Airport
- 1 Night on Kos - Bed and Breakfast
- 3 Nights on Leros - Bed and Breakfast
- 3 Nights on Lipsi - Room Only
- 3 Nights on Patmos - Bed and Breakfast
- Transfers and ferry tickets throughout
- Single room supplement on request
Board Basis: Bed & Breakfast
Day 1 - Arrival on Kos
For the purposes of this itinerary, Kos is a stepping stone to the remoter Dodecanese islands. However, it is the third largest island in the Dodecanese and justifiably popular with visitors. Kos has managed to balance the need to cater for tourists' interests without losing its essential identity as an island steeped in history and blessed with an idyllic natural beauty.
Overnight at the Kosta Palace Hotel, Kos. Bed & Breakfast
Kos
Day 2 - Transfer to Leros
Transfer by ferry to Leros (90 minutes), an untouristic, very friendly and genuine island
Overnight at the Leros Nefeli Hotel. Bed & Breakfast
Leros Nefeli Hotel
Day 3 & 4 - Explore Leros
Gentle Leros has a heavily indented coastline, with many sheltered coves and bays. Even in the height of summer, you can still often find a small beach to yourself; a little spot of paradise. Inland, there are a surprising number of traditional villages, as well as Crusader castles and Byzantine chapels to discover.
Overnight at the Leros Nefeli Hotel. Bed & Breakfast
Leros
Day 5 - Transfer to Lipsi
Twenty minutes across the water is Lipsi, your base for the next three days. At 16 sq kms, unspoiled Lipsi has a sleepy atmosphere, limited tourist numbers and fine beaches making it ideal 'away from it all' territory.
Overnight at the Aphroditi Hotel, Lipsi. Room Only
Aphroditi Hotel, Lipsi
Day 6 & 7 - Explore Lipsi
Lipsi's gentle rolling landscape is dotted with blue-domed chapels and quiet bays, where sun beds are not permitted. Take a relaxing stroll and enjoy the fresh air and wonderful views over the many satellite islands lining the coast. Lipsi's little port is the only village on the island. Most tavernas are, of course, on the quayside, from where steps lead up to the old part of the village. There is a good sandy town beach, and others can be reached on foot or by minibus.
Overnight at the Aphroditi Hotel, Lipsi. Room Only
Lipsi
Day 8 - Transfer to Patmos
Transfer to Patmos (90 minutes by ferry) the most northerly island of the Dodecanese and one of the smallest, measuring a little over 20 square miles.
Overnight at the Asteri Hotel, Patmos. Bed & Breakfast
Asteri Hotel, Patmos
Day 9 & 10 - Explore Patmos
Patmos' fame belies its size. This is where St John the Divine wrote the Book of Revelation, and the island hence receives many visitors, most of whom stay for only a few hours before returning to their cruise boat. That leaves the rest of this starkly beautiful island to those who, like us, prefer to fall under Patmos' spell in their own time. The attractive port of Skala is where you will stay. It is a bustling, quite sophisticated little place, with elegant arcaded cafes, fine tavernas and some smart shops hidden in the narrow backstreets. A good bus service runs to beaches and villages around the island, allowing for easy exploration. For walkers, climb the hill from Skala to the Monastery of St John, with the white houses of Hora clustered below its imposing fortifications. It is one of the magnificent sights of Greece! Founded in the 11th century, the monastery contains treasures second only to Athos.
Overnight at the Asteri Hotel, Patmos. Bed & Breakfast
Patmos
Day 11 - Day of departure
Transfer from Patmos to Kos for your return flight to the UK.