What to do in Kasos

Beaches

The coastline of Kasos hides small, quiet beaches, many of which are only accessible on foot or by boat. The Emborios, on the south side of the island, is one of the most popular, with turquoise waters and shade from tamarisk trees. The Chelator offers a more secluded experience, while the Ammoua It is ideal for families thanks to its shallow, calm waters. If you are looking for something wilder, the pebbled passages near Agios Konstantinos are worth the trip.

Tip: most beaches do not have organized services (sunbeds, canteens), so make sure to bring water and an umbrella with you.

Hiking

Old paths connect the villages of Kasos to each other and to deserted chapels, chapels and viewpoints over the Libyan Sea. The marked network Kasos Trails includes nine routes: the first, circular and approximately 9 km long, connects almost all the settlements starting from Fry, while others lead to the cave of Stylokamara, the monastery of Agios Georgios in Hadies and the top of Megalos Prionas.

The best time to hike is in the spring and fall, when temperatures are milder. Always wear closed-toe shoes — the ground is rocky.

Boat trip to Armathia

No visit to Kasos is complete without a boat trip on the Armathia, a small uninhabited island opposite the port of Fry, famous for its crystal clear waters and white sand beach. Local fishermen and boats depart from the port every morning, weather permitting, and return in the afternoon. Bring food and water with you, as services on the island are limited.

Villages

The six villages of Kasos each have their own character, all within a few minutes of each other:

• Fry — the capital and port of the island, with the waterfront, cafes and access to the airport.
• Agia Marina — the largest village of Kasos, built on a hill above Fry.
• Arvanitochori — seat of the Municipality, known for the captain's houses and "Maroukla" square.
• Panagia — the village of shipwrights and captains, with mansions and columns at the entrances.
• Poli — the ancient capital of Kasos, with remains of a Mycenaean acropolis in the wider area.
• Emborios — the old port of the island, near the beach of the same name.

Local cuisine

Kasian cuisine is simple, tasty and based on what the island has to offer. Be sure to try:

• Kasian pilaf — red, cooked in the broth of boiled lamb or goat with tomatoes and sprinkled with cinnamon — the dish of every festival.
• Makarounes with sitaka — the trademark of Cassis cuisine: pasta with wheat, the local creamy cheese made from thick sheep's or goat's milk, and caramelized onions.
• Durmaes — the Kasian dolmadakia, unique for their impressively small size.
• Local cheeses — the creamy sitaka and the "oleaki", a dry mizithra with a strong flavor.
• Honey and butter — thyme honey from the island's Mediterranean, aromatic flora — and rare cassia butter, if you're lucky.

Most cafes and taverns are concentrated in Fry and Agia Marina.