Samos

The island

The island of Hera and Pythagoras, of history and natural beauty, invites you to its legend. On this green island at the edge of the Aegean between pine forests and olive groves, in lands with citrus fruits and fertile vineyards, you will discover myths and historical truths.
Here the goddess Hera, wife of Zeus, was born, here also the famous astrophysicist Aristarchus, who first formulated the theory about the movement of the earth; and here the great mathematician, Pythagoras, saw the light of the sun for the first time. Also, Samos is the birthplace of the philosopher Epicurus, but also of many scientists and great artists.
This North Aegean island boasts crystal clear seas, traditional mountain settlements, fine local produce and the well-drinkable, sweet Sami wine. Holidays in Samos are a dream come true. 

Samos

Sights-Museums

It is impossible to leave Samos without getting to know the Pythagorean. Built on the ancient city of Samos, it encompasses everything that makes up the culture of the island. It was a naval and financial center during the 6th century BC. and the birthplace of great personalities: The mathematician-philosopher Pythagoras, whose statue dominates the port, and the one famous for Aesop's fables. The great historian Herodotus also lived here a century later. Recognized as a World Heritage Site by Unesco, Pythagoras seems to be overflowing with history.

From the fortified walls and the Archaeological Museum, to the Tower of Logothetis, the temple of Hera and the Eupalineo Aqueduct (the one kilometer aqueduct considered the pinnacle of ancient Greek engineering). Apart from all that, it is also a beautiful little port, with cobbled streets and a relaxed atmosphere. 

Vathi is the capital while Samos is the port of the island, which form a single residential complex. Built amphitheatrically at the bottom of the bay of the same name, in the NE part of the island, the capital preserves its traditional character intact, with many neoclassical buildings and small picturesque houses with tiled roofs. Walk around the city and get to know Pythagoras or Liontariou square, near the beach.

In Vathi, visit the Archaeological Museum of Samos which houses, among other things, finds from Heraion, as well as the oversized Kouros of Lefkia (5 m high), from 580 BC. Take a walk to see notable buildings and monuments of the city such as the Parliament, the Courthouse, the monument to the Fallen. It is worth a stop at the municipal garden and the Art Gallery, housed in the city's magnificent, neoclassical Town Hall. Here you will see relics of the history of the island from 1821 to the most recent years, the "Constitution of Samos" as well as portraits of fighters and rulers. In the Ecclesiastical Byzantine Museum, which is housed in the metropolitan palace, you will have the opportunity to see a collection of silversmithing and gold embroidery, images and manuscripts on membranes. Go up to Ano Vathi, a beautiful district to visit the small church of Ai-Giannakis, an excellent example of post-Byzantine architecture.

Taste the long tradition of winemaking

Samos is known worldwide for its wine. It had a long tradition in winemaking since ancient times, but the big leap happened when the "Moschato" grape variety came to the island in the 16th century. Samos Muscat Blanc a Petits Grains (as its official name is) is grown on the slopes of Mount Ampelos, on traditionally built levels called terraces. A tour of a winery and vineyard is a must, as is a tasting of the rich flavors and aromas of Samos wines. Only then will you understand why they managed not only to win the demanding markets of Germany and France but also to win many important international awards and distinctions. Also don't miss the Samian Wine Museum on the outskirts of the capital, which has traditional wine-making equipment, photos and lots of information.

In Samos, don't miss visiting the Tannery Museum, which is unique in Greece. It is housed in an old stone tannery (tannery) in Karlovasi. During your visit to the Museum you will see, among other things, the tools, the machines and the methods of leather processing, as well as rich photographic material and a map of the tanneries that were located in Samos during the 2nd century.

The visit to the Museum of Natural History of the Aegean, which is very rich in exhibits, is also very interesting, which you will find in the village of Mytilene. In this particular Museum of Paleontology, as it is called, one will see bones of prehistoric vertebrates, Samotherian joints, deciduous teeth and mastodon bones. The most valuable find is the petrified brain of Hipparius, 13 million years old. 

Cave of Pythagoras

The Cave of Pythagoras

It is located at the foot of Mount Kerketea and, according to some sources, the philosopher Pythagoras fled here to hide when he was being pursued by the tyrant Polycrates. There is another version of the story. The cave was used by Pythagoras as a hermitage, to ponder philosophical questions without distraction. 320 steps lead to the entrance of the Cave. The view is amazing.

Monasteries

Visit the monasteries of Panagia Spiliani, Zoodochos Pigi, Agia Zoni with the great library and Holy Cross with the impressive throne, as well as the Monastery of Vrontas or Panagia Vrontiani in the village of Vourliotes. Climb to Panagia Sarandaskaliotissa, built at the entrance of the so-called Pythagoras cave.

Coastal settlements-Villages-Beaches

Near Vathi, there is the worldly crowded beach of Psili Ammos and next to it the endless beach of Mykali. Join us in Livadaki, a secret we kept for you last. Follow the coastal route north from Vathi for 12 kilometers and ... lo and behold. An exotic little beach, sandwiched between two long narrow strips of land that stretch to the sea. This sandy organized beach with blue-green waters is ideal to spend your whole day. Some touches here will even remind you of something from the Maldives! It's shallow up to a point - and it drives the kids crazy - but if you continue a little deeper you'll find amazing snorkeling spots.

Kokkari

Kokkari

You cannot be in Samos and not visit Kokkari. This tiny settlement just ten kilometers outside Vathi, the capital of Samos, exudes picturesqueness and beauty. Built on a small peninsula on the northern coastline, adorned with red tiled roofs and colorful boats, it is the perfect starting point for your journey. On the two shores that form Mikra Lemonakia beach, the sea is for you to drink by the glass and we bet that you will have a hard time choosing which of the two you will dive into. You can however visit some others, equally beautiful, such as Lemonakia or Tsamadou right on the road or Tsabou a little further south. Wander around the local cafes, shops and tavernas that dot the small narrow streets, or explore the countryside through well-maintained walking trails such as the one that leads to the top of Mount Ampelos.

On the North-West side of the island near Karlovasi is Potami, while on the south coast the beach of Kampos, the Pebbles and the impressive Golden Sand stand out. Balos in Koumeika has fine pebbles and transparent deep water. 

Mytileneans

The semi-mountainous village of Mytileneoi or Mytilinioi is amphitheatrically built and is not only one of the largest, but certainly one of the most atmospheric villages of Samos. His trademark, what else? The central square with the cafes, shops and taverns. The village is famous for its six churches and many chapels. In the summer you can also watch a movie in the summer cinema.

Mountain villages

Ambelos

As its name testifies, you are in the village that introduces you to the history of the viticulture of Samos. At an altitude of about 300m. on Mount Karvouni (one of the two mountains of Samos) is full of picturesque streets and well-preserved houses, which are classic examples of Sami architecture. Your attention will certainly be drawn here by the tavernas overlooking the Aegean and with delicious, traditional Greek dishes made from local raw materials. Of course, don't forget the local wine - you won't be able to resist a glass... If you're a hiker, start your route from the village parking lot. You will cross pine forests and olive groves to reach impressive waterfalls and caves in just half an hour.

Manolates

Manolates

You remain at the foot of Mount Karvounis, to visit yet another village overlooking the Aegean, surrounded by vineyards and forests. Famous for its stone houses, cobbled streets and atmospheric taverns, this village is another typical example of Sami tradition. Among the most important activities of its inhabitants are pottery and loom weaving, and you can, if you wish, watch them create works of art in their workshops. However, most are engaged in viticulture. Car traffic is not allowed in the village, while many marked hiking trails start from here, which lead to the Valley of the Nightingales.

Vourliotes

Built in the 16th century among tall pines, olive groves and vines. You have just arrived at Vourliotes, at an altitude of 360m. Here you can admire an incredible view, vineyards that produce the Moschato variety and many springs. The renovated houses and locally produced products will be unforgettable. The same with the local wine! Oh, don't forget to try figs, lemon and cherries. They are excellent when they are in season.

Platanos

Platanos is famous for its refreshing water, as evidenced by the 17th century public fountain in the village square, as well as the proverbial song. It has an excellent, wide view from north to south and you can see the mountain "Kerkis" and its villages, the southwest coast of Samos, Karlovasi, also the island of Fourni, many islands of the Dodecanese in the south, even island of Chios sometimes to the north, literally the Aegean at your feet.

Marathokampos

Further west, at the foot of Mount Kerkis, is Marathokambos, a village named after the nearby bay with its many beaches. Although here you will find almost everything you have seen in the other mountain villages, such as cobbled streets, stone houses, springs and churches, Marathokambos has the peculiarity of being frozen in time. Near the village you will find the caves of Sarandaskaliotissa (named after the 40 steps at its entrance, where you will also find a church) and of Pythagoras (refuge of the well-known ancient mathematician during his persecution by the tyrant Polycrates).

Embrace the serenity of Villa Chariclea, where every moment is a whisper to the soul, bringing you closer to the senses than ever before.

Contact

Klima, Samos, 83100, Greece

+30 2122140932

+306978441433

contact@charicleasamos.com