Kania is a quiet beach is a with pebbles and clear waters. Here you have the chance to enjoy a relaxing swim and sunbathe on the sun loungers.
Ftenagia beach is a 15 minute walk from the port of Halki.
It is relatively small, rocky, paved with pebbles and, like the entire island, it has crystal clear waters. Pontamos beach is organized with sun beds and umbrellas, being an ideal choice for families.
If you get hungry after swimming, you can grab a bite at the tavern by the beach, or return to the harbor and have something there.
Pontamos beach is a 10 minute walk from the port of Halki.
It is covered with sand and has crystal-clear waters. Pontamos beach is organized with sun beds and umbrellas, being an ideal choice for families.
If you get hungry after swimming, you can grab a bite at the tavern by the beach, or return to the harbor and have something there.
Halki, in Dodecanese Islands, can be reached by ferry from Piraeus and Rhodes. Especially during the summer months several routes take place, to and from other islands.
Halki's history is intertwined with Rhodes. The few data available indicate that Halki was slave to Kameiros for long periods, following its rise and fall as well as Rhodes'.
In the 14th century the Knights who control Rhodes and the surrounding area grant Halki as a fief to the Assanti family. At that time, the castle of the island was constructed upon the ruins of the ancient acropolis. The castle was used as a shelter by the islands' inhabitants during the several attacks by pirates and others.
The early 16th century finds Halki, together with the rest of the region, under Ottoman occupation, enjoying many privileges that allow it to survive through commerce. Yet, following the example of islands like Kalymnos and Symi, Halki owes its great economic and intellectual prosperity to sponge fishing.
Although it participates in the Greek revolution in 1821, it remains under Turkish control until 1912 when Italians occupy the island. In 1948 Halki, together with the other Dodecanese, is finally liberated and becomes an integral part of Greece.
Halki is in the Dodecanese, between Rhodes and Tilos.
It is a small island with an area not exceeding 28 square kilometers. Only 5 nautical miles divide Halki from Rhodes island, making it ideal for a day trip.
There are two versions about the name of the island: According to some, Halki is named after the copper(=halkos) mines that existed on the island, while most claim that its name derives from the Phoenician word "Calhi" meaning purpura or lava shell that existed in abundance on the island. Many confuse Halki in the Dodecanese with the other Halki Island in the Sea of Marmara, which today belongs to Turkey.
Halki is a generally hilly island and its highest peak is Merovigli at 593 meters altitude. The unique residential area of the island is the port, known by different names such as Emporios, Niborios or even Halki. The view one encounters when entering the harbor by boat is simply unique. Wonderful neoclassical houses, made at a time when the island prospered thanks to trade and sponge fishing. Your attention will be caught by the three windmills that dominate the hill and the tall stone tower clock that springs up from within the settlement. Wander in the island and the beautiful beaches, visit the abandoned Palio Chorio (=old village), which was the island's old capital and go up to the castle of the Knights of Agios Ioannis to take in the magnificent views.
In Halki you will find cozy hotels and guest houses, taverns, cafes and bars, but above all you will have the chance to experience first hand the traditional Greek hospitality.
Every year many panigiria-feasts and celebrations are organized, full of dancing, singing and feasting, such as:
Note that in June a three-day event of special importance is organized, in memory of the Kasos Holocaust (June 7, 1824).
Near Agia Marina, in Kasos, you will find the famous cave Ellinokamara.
Ellinokamara has a large natural opening which has been closed with masonry since antiquity. To the surprise of some, this masonry survives almost intact. Traces of an altar, sherds and clay vessels, indicate that the cave was probably used as a place of worship. The interior has an area of about 250 meters and is divided into three rooms. Based on the findings, archaeologists speculate that a disaster (probably earthquake ) made the cave unsuitable for use.
Ellinokamara cave is worth visiting, not only for its archaeological significance but mainly because from there you can admire the spectacular views of the area.
Kasos, as a prime summer destination, is ideal for sports related to summer and sea.
Diving in pristine bottoms, full of undiscovered secrets.Fishing in deserted places, where waves crashing on the rocks is the sole sound that accompanies you. Windsurfing and wave tricks, especially on the north side of the island.
Khelastros beach is in the western part of Kasos.
It is a beach strewn with pebbles and its waters are crystal-clear. The bay of Khelastros has always been a refuge for ships. Being well protected from the north, it is highly recommended in windy days, if you want to enjoy a relaxing swim. Adding to that the relatively difficult access to the beach, you understand that only the really determined enjoy its beauty.