DODECANESE

Patmos

Size: max 10km x min 1km
Martian Risk: some for short periods when cruise liners call.

It is perhaps a pity that the fame of Patmos depends so heavily on the fame of the Monastery of St John the Divine, when the rest of the island can itself be such a ...well... Revelation. Apart from the busy quayside and the short road up to the Monastery, the rest of the island is unspoilt, green and hilly with dramatic views from the spine. Its coastline, especially on the east side protected from the wind, offers a string of beaches, most graced with a taverna or two. To explore it properly you can hire a car, but a scooter’s more than adequate.

Of course you must not miss the working monastery, surrounded by a picturesque chora of narrow streets and white cottages, dominating the landscape. The interior is fascinating and the views from the walls are breath-taking. Skala, the main village, spreading back from the quayside is becoming surprisingly attractive and it is there, rather than in the chora, that you will find most of the island’s restaurants. For a change and a sea-breeze you can take a boat trip to neighbouring Lipsi, Leros, Kalymnos and Fourni.

Patmos: monastery of St John and the Chora

Patmos: Kampos bay

Patmos: the working monastery of St John

Patmos: inside the monastery

Patmos: in the Chora

Patmos: panorama northwards from the Chora

Price Guide

ACCOMMODATION

Hotel Nightingale, Giordami

The smartest hotel on Patmos, set round a large swimming pool, with lovely views and 15 minutes on foot from Skala. The rooms, furnished with island antiques, have balcony or veranda, most with sea view.
Cat.B; pool, sauna, internet/fax; air-con, sat TV, king size beds, mini-bar, hair-drier, coffee machine, safe-box; B&(buffet)B.

Seasons
Peak 24/7-31/8
High 1/7-23/7
Mid 1/6-30/9
Low 23 /3-15/11

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Focas Apartments, Skala

A small complex of studios and apartments submerged under swathes of exotic shrubs with views across the harbour to the monastery.
S/C 2-6 pers.

Seasons
High 15/7-15/9
Mid 1/6-30/9
Low 1/4-31/10

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Kathy's House, Skala

Right on the harbour with nice views (unless a cruise-ship parks in front). Excellent rooms and a pool in the back yard make this a convenient choice. Breakfast inside or on the quay!
Air-con; pool. Supp.for sea view. B&B.

Seasons
High 1/7-31/8
Mid 1/6-30/9
Low 1/4-31/10

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