Patmos and the Dodecanese
Listed under Islands in Dodecanese Islands, Greece.
The 163 islands of the Dodecanese group include the well known Rhodes and Kos and are famous for their history of changing ownership, their unusual architecture and natural beauty.
There are several sites of archaeological interest and the ruins of many Byzantine churches and medieval crusader castles built with a style that blends that of both the eastern and western architecture.
Patmos is one of the most historically interesting of the island group. John the Apostle was exiled here when he wrote the Christian “Book of Revelation”. Patmos’s meticulously preserved town centre with the Monastery of St. John the Theologian and the Cave of the Apocalypse were listed by UNESCO as World Heritage sites in 2006.
As well as the historic and religious attractions, Patmos has several sandy beaches, good hiking terrain and a beautiful coastline for both sailing and walking. It is also quieter than many of the other islands in its group and there are less discos, organised activities and tourist infrastructure.
Written by 
Lindsay Drury.
Other expert and press reviews
“Great for a yacht charter”
The Dodecanese islands are also great for a yacht charter, but less interesting if shore based, though they are easily visited by island hopping on the famously handy Greek ferry boats. Elsewhere, Hydra is a very pretty place to visit for a day or two … Read more...
Written by 
Ian Wilson.
Comments, reviews and questions by other travellers
Karpathos is one of the most traditional islands of Greece and with beaches that compare with those of Mykonos.It has very good ancient hike trails that connect the whole island.The best time for hiking is spring time when all of Karpathos is full of wildflowers.Also Easter is unforgetable in the villages as are the many traditional "panigiria"all year round.
1 Reply
Do you have any recommendations on where to stay on Karpathos? Is a week a good length of time to spend there - with three children under 10?
Jenny
- posted 29th January 2010
Who's been here
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Yes one week is enough but but you will come back for more!!! the best bet is to stay on an area close to the capital but also close to nature and good beaches.Ammopi is a very good choice with nice hotels and good swimming.
1 Reply
Thanks! Do you have any specific recommendations for the kids? Are there plenty of places to hire watersports gear etc.?