Patmos
Patmos is a gem of an island, nestling in crystal
waters just off the west coast of Turkey. A relatively
small but beautiful Greek island of the Dodecanese,
Patmos is also known as the 'Holy Isle' for the monastery
that dominates the hilltop and much of the local history.
Skala is the main town on Patmos, and provides a pleasant
mix of island life and tourist-related enterprise.
It is here that the small, colourful fishing fleet
unloads its catch, and the less attractive tourist
boats disgorge their passengers.
Thankfully - and due to a combination of relative
remoteness and an aversion to package holidaymakers
- Patmos is one of the few Greek islands to be relatively
unspoiled by tourist life. While cruise ships dock
here and passengers are bussed up to the monastery,
they leave again as quickly as they came. Evenings
remain a pleasant mix of community life, understated
tavernas and restaurants, and unhurried walks along
the waterfront.
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Patmos is also blessed with uncrowded beaches
- the small gem of Psili Ammos on the south coast
is one of the best. Accessible by boat from Skala
or by dirt track overland, Psili Ammos' white sands
are shaded by occasional trees and a small family-run
taverna dispenses much needed sustenance.
The most-visited town on the island is Khora,
a whitewashed community nestling around the imposing
walls of the medieval monastery. The monastery itself
is an unmissable structure, and was founded in 1091
by the soldier-cleric Ioannis "The Blessed"
Khristodhoulos. Frescoes, icons, and a maze of
passageways and courtyards make this an interesting
stop, and the monastery treasury (entrance fee payable)
is worth a look for those with an interest in medieval
art and iconography.
Patmos is above all an island to 'get away from it
all', but without having to go without good food,
shopping, or high quality amenities. An idyllic
corner of the Aegean that is just holding back
the tide of over development to retain a distinct
character and natural beauty...
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Getting There
British
Airways and Olympic
are the key carriers to Athens,
although there are also Cheap
Airline deals. Flight time is approximately
4 hours from London.
From Athens it is up to 8-9 hours by ferry to Patmos,
although it is only 2 hours from Rhodes.
Accommodation
The excellent and reasonably-priced Captain's
House is just 100 metres from the port, on a small
bay overlooking the fishing fleet. Balconies command
excellent views. A tiny beach has a relaxed cafe and
the shops and tavernas of Skala are five minutes walk.
Phone 0247/31 793 or fax 32 277).
More Information
Check out Go
Greece or (for ferry information) the useful
Ferries
portal.
Also visit our Greek
Island guide.
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