Astypalea Island holidays - Dodecanese, Greece
Information on Astypalea holidays - Greece

Astypalea is one of those secret islands that receive few foreign visitors but is popular with Greeks. This gorgeous island is situated west of Nissiros and east of Anaphi. Its area is 97 square kms and it has a coastline of 110 kms with many natural harbours, bays and numerous islets. The island comprises of two rock masses, joined by a 110 meter isthmus. The main settlement of the island is Chora which is situated on the western coast and is built on the very same site as the ancient city. Above the town dominates the fort with its two white washed churches which John Quirini the 4th restored and which is much sung about in the folk music tradition as the "Fort of Astropalia". Today the town has extended down along the coast until it joins with today's harbour which is known as Pera Yialos. At a small distance of Chora is Livadi, a rich coastal valley. It produces exceptional quality citrus fruits and vegetables and ends upon an idyllic beach. In the northern part of the island there is a large and totally safe harbour with a small settlement called Maltezana or Analipsi. Vathi, situated along a picturesque bay, is another settlement which reached its peak in the past due to the vast quantities of lime which was enough to cover local needs and also be exported. Ancient writers speak with marvel of the island's fine climate, the multitude of game which breed there (especially pheasants and rabbits) and of the abundant quantities of fish and sponges in the surrounding seas.  It is worth noting that snakes are not to be found on Astypalaia.