Discover Kálamos

Kálamos is both the name of the island and one of its two settlements. Distinguishing between the village and the island helps you find your way: in the village of Kálamos, narrow lanes and the Church of Saint George are central, while coastal spots and other historic sites are located in different parts of the island. This makes it easy to plan your trip around your interests—whether you are looking for walks, coastal scenery or history.

Coastal spots on the island of Kálamos

The island has two settlements: Kálamos and Episkopi. Small pebble beaches with clear water are among the coast’s defining features. Mirtia and Asprogiali are near the port; the beaches are generally accessible from the sea. This is a distinctive aspect of the island’s coastline to bear in mind when planning your trip.

Other beaches can be grouped by location: Agriapidia, Pefkoi and Kefali are on the south side of the island, while Kedros, Alexaki, Kipoi and Trachilos are on the west side. These names help you get your bearings as you explore different stretches of coastline. Porto Leone lies on the other side of the island, where it forms a small, picturesque bay.

The name Porto Leone also tells a story of the island’s history: the Venetians who mapped the area named the place. An old bridge, built centuries ago, stands near the bay. The bay, bridge and story behind the name are among the features associated with Porto Leone, without conflating it with the beaches on the south or west side.

History and architecture

The castle, also known as Kastromonastiro, is located near Episkopi on the island of Kálamos. In the period before the Greek War of Independence and up to the union of the Ionian Islands with Greece, the castle served several historical roles: it was a base for Giannos Varnakiotis, a refuge for klephts and armatoles from Epirus and western Greece, and a shelter for families during the 1821 Revolution. After the Exodus of Messolonghi, it also served as a refuge for the population. These episodes make the castle a place where several chapters of the island’s history come together.

In the village of Kálamos, it is worth taking a look at the Church of Saint George: its bell tower features architectural elements typical of the Ionian Islands. This is another example of architecture beyond the castle. If you are interested in culture and history, you can include both the castle near Episkopi on the island of Kálamos and the church in the village of Kálamos in your explorations.

Lanes, conversations and walks

In the village of Kálamos, you can stroll through the narrow lanes and talk with local people about the past and life on the island. A walk from Kálamos to Episkopi passes through a landscape that feels unspoilt and authentic. Together, these options offer two different perspectives: conversation and a wander around the village, and a walk between the two settlements.

When looking for a holiday rental, it helps to first decide what you want to focus on during your trip. Would you mainly like to experience the lanes and church in the village of Kálamos, are you more interested in the coastal spots, or are historic sites such as the castle and Porto Leone your priority?

Discover more destinations

Discover more destinations: Asprogerakata, Aghios Nikitas, Kastos, Sivros, Ellomenos, Nikiana, Episkopos, Exanthia.

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