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Mykonos, Crete, Rhodes, Santorini: all stunning Greek islands we’ve heard of time and time again.
But if you’re in search of an island less travelled, then look no further than Kastos. Boasting unspoiled nature and tranquillity in abundance, it’s a brilliant alternative to the likes of popular destinations like Corfu.
Home to less than 100 residents, Kastos feels like a ‘floating village’ according to travel expert Claire Shields of Sunsail, a yacht charter company.
‘With only one small harbour, a cluster of stone houses and a few tavernas, time seems to slow down here,’ she says.
If you’re a sucker for a beach and turquoise water, you’ll be right at home on this small island.
Things in Kastos to do and see
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When surrounded by glistening ocean there’s one must do, and that’s water sports. From swimming to snorkelling and scuba diving to sailing, take the opportunity to do it all.
Paralia Vali beach is just a short walk from the port and is the most popular beach, while Limni beach is a particularly good one for swimming.
Babakia and Vrisidia are both on the east coast of the island while Aberlaki is on the south coast – all are accessible by foot or by car.
Agios Emilianos is also a must visit because it’s where Fokotrypa (Seal Hole) can be found – a small cave with a beach inside it.
It’s full of history too, with archaeological findings from as far back as the Roman and Early Byzantine years. Kastos was also a refuge for fighters and civilians during the Greek Revolution, when Greeks revolted against the Ottoman Empire in 1821.
There’s even a little Marine Museum – ‘Home of the Fin Whale’ – which holds the skeleton of a young fin whale which washed up on the shore of the island in the 70s.
Where to eat and drink on Kastos
The quaint little sea port of Kastos offers stunning sunset drinks at the Windmill Bar, which has panoramic views of the ocean and surrounding islands.
Mylos Bar is another spot with a ‘spectacular’ and ‘phenomenal’ view of the Ionian sea, according to Tripadvisor users.
El.a Cafe Bar also came highly recommended by many users too. User iskrapari wrote: ‘Beautiful island Kastos, but it is upgraded by this particular bar. It is not only the magnificent view from the balcony but… warm and friendly… excellent drinks and especially the rock, jazz, blues dance that make up its uniqueness.’
A mini-market behind the main harbour has the essentials you’ll need like fruit and veg but don’t expect to find any cash points, or chemists. Card payments aren’t typically accepted here, so make sure to take out plenty of cash before you go.
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Neighbouring Kalamos
While you’re staying on Kastos, you should take the opportunity to visit its neighbour Kalamos, via ferry or boat.
Covered in pine forests, it’s a chance to really switch off and connect with nature. Travel and yachting expert Claire says: ‘Sailing around Kalamos means discovering quiet beaches, sea caves, and perfect little swim with no one else around.
‘It’s also great for slow living. You will not find big beach bars or resorts, just local tavernas with fresh fish, homemade wine and homegrown vegetables.’
If you’re a keen walker, the Kalamos mountain range will give you some breathtaking views, while some creeks are great to explore via kayak or small boat.
You can also explore the two villages Kalamos on the east coats, and Episkopi on the northwest coast.
Kalamos is your best bet for restaurants, cafes and shops, with a small promenade and some limited hotels. Episkopi has a harbour, a single restaurant and a small cluster of houses, although its near to the ruins of a Venetian castle which is great to explore.
How do I get to Kastos?
Getting to this little hidden gem isn’t as simple its more popular counterparts but it’s not ridiculously pricey either.
You’ll want to fly from London Gatwick to Preveza airport, also known as Aktion National Airport in Greece. It’ll cost you £108 per person for a return flight with easyJet, and your journey will take around three-and-a-half hours.
This will land you just 6.7 kilometres from Preveza and 20km from the nearby island of Lefkada. Once your out of the airport, you’ll need to get a transfer to Mytikas, either by taxi or bus.
By taxi will set you back around £15 but you’ll get to the port in just 11 minutes, while a bus is more expensive and will take hours because of the long-winded route.
Once you catch the ferry (which only operates once daily) it’ll take 40 minutes before you finally reach your destination.
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