Castello Rosso or Καστελλόριζο

How to spend your days in the easternmost Greek island. (with the exception of the nearby islet of Strongyli)

Aug 28, 2024

Kastellorizo is a tiny, remote island of such intricate old world beauty and charm, full of genuine people and rich history, with eye-watering sunsets and clear-blue waters.

There are barely any cars around as the only street is the 4km road connecting the airport to the port. So, prepare to walk just a bit, but most importantly, to swim around the island.

Be prepared for the absence of 'classic' beaches on the island. Instead, you can dive from the rocks using ladders or take a boat to reach Plakes Beach, known for its distinctive geology.

Or swim to the taverna on the small rock-island of Agios Georgios for lunch.

The Town + around

This remote gem, with its vibrant harbor lined with neoclassical houses painted in pastel hues, offers a serene escape from the bustle of more tourist-heavy destinations. The advantage of Kastellorizo is that, due to its small size, even at full capacity, it never feels crowded or overwhelming.

The island's unique charm lies in its simplicity. Swimming, snorkeling, walking, and enjoying fresh seafood are the primary activities to indulge in.

The restaurants you will enjoy the most:

Billy's Restaurant. Don’t miss their unique shrimp pasta with tiny Kastellorizian shrimps.
Alexandra's. The freshest seafood but most importantly you will dine next to big loggerhead sea turtles.
Go to 'Ta Platania" for their stuffed onions.

Lazarakis Restaurant for (you guessed it!) seafood.

What to wear to dinner?

Extremely old swimming top worn as regular top + 2WO+1NE=2 Romero skirt + vintage belt + pointed flats

City looks if you are back in town

You walked and swam and dined. What’s next?

One of the best days we had on the island was when we did the tour of it and visited the nearby islets.

We used Visit Kastellorizo to book a fishing boat (καΐκι).

Kastellorizo is also home to the Blue Cave (also known as Η Σπηλιά του Παραστά), one of the largest and most beautiful sea caves in Greece, known for its mesmerizing blue waters that reflect the sunlight in a dazzling display.

Right next door lies the (almost) uninhabited rock-island of Ro, where the Lady of Ro (Κυρά της Ρω), Despina Achladiotou, a Greek patriot, lived. She was notable for being the sole resident of the island and for raising the Greek flag daily, just 1 km away from the Turkish coast, to remind everyone that this is still Greek soil. She continued this tradition from the time she arrived until her death, 40 years later.

Historically, Kastellorizo has a rich and varied past, influenced by numerous civilizations, including the Greeks, Romans, Byzantines, and Ottomans. The island’s name is derived from the Castle of the Knights of St. John, a medieval fortress perched above the main town, which offers panoramic views of the Aegean Sea. Kastellorizo played a significant role during World War II and was a key location due to its strategic position. Today, remnants of its storied history can be seen throughout the island, from ancient ruins to the charming old town.

But visit it with a great group of friends

This is the best way to enjoy Kastellorizo. As the things to do are limited and can become repetitive, choosing a like-minded group of friends makes all the difference.