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Kos
Kos Introduction
Kos lying in the middle of the Dodecanese islands near to the Turkish coast is 45 kilometres long and ranges from 2 to 11 kilometres wide. It is very popular with tourists having the essential ingredients of sun, sand, sea and night life. In addition, Kos has many ancient sites, picturesque villages, and provides a range of activities to suit all tastes.
Why Go To Kos?
The popularity of Kos speaks for itself. Al though it is not the prettiest of the Greek islands, it has a large number of beaches, isolated coves, differing sea conditions and many interesting archaeological sites. Guaranteed sun and sandy beaches draw thousands of holidaymakers every year. There are a variety of resorts from the tranquillity of places such as Kefalos and Psalidior, to the pulsating nights of Kos Town and Kardamena, which will satisfy the appetites of most holiday makers. Facilities are available to the more sporty types such as hiking, wind surfing, horseback riding, and cycling to name but a few.
Day excursions are available to other Greek Islands and to mainland Turkey.
Who Is Kos Popular With?
Kos is popular with families with small children because of the number of safe sandy beaches. Other beaches, with rougher seas, are popular with surfers and water sportsmen. While young people flock to Kos in order to experience the famed nightlife, others seek out more peaceful resorts where they can relax and forget the pressures of life. Anyone with an interest in things ancient can explore the many historical sites.
When To Go To Kos
The most popular time to visit Kos is in the summer although the season extends from April to the end of October. The temperature range is from 20 to 30 degrees.
Kos - The Place
Kos is a fairly flat island having only a couple of small mountains in the south and a large flat plain in the north. While the scenery therefore could not be called spectacular, Kos, nevertheless, has much to recommend it.
Kos Town is an eclectic mix of beach resort, open air nightclubs and ancient ruins. An earthquake in 1933 revealed ancient ruins which were excavated and restored. A ‘must see’ attraction is the Hippocrates Tree which is said to be 2500 years old under which, it is claimed, Hippocrates sat and studied. In spite of the tourist development in the town, it remains picturesque and it is possible to avoid the night revellers.
On the flat and rather featureless north coast the beaches are fairly quiet. Agios Fokas is popular with windsurfers. Cycling and horse riding is a frequent pastime here owing to the flatness of the land.
The east coast is the most busy and is very popular with families because of the numerous sandy beaches sloping gently into the sea. As ever, tavernas and restaurants line the beach offering refreshments and gift shops abound.
The south coast has endless stretches of sand. The seas are calmer here but they are also cooler than in the north.
In the Asfendiou district, on the slopes of Mount Dikios it is possible to find the genuine Greek way of life unspoiled by tourism.
For a spectacular sunset visit Zia, a charming whitewashed village which has the oldest windmill on the island. Tavernas here serve excellent food.
Many tourists take excursions from Kos to the Turkey and to other Greek islands such as Nisyros which has active volcanic steam vents and bubbling mud baths.
Kos Culture
During the summer months in Kos there are many cultural festivals. Most are related to the Greek Orthodox religious calendar.
Archaeological museums, old churches, monasteries and ancient monuments are scattered across the island.
Kos Nightlife
The nightlife in Kos caters for all tastes. There are the taverns along almost every beach where you can sample a variety of good wholesome local food. In resorts such as Kos Town and Kardamena the volume of the music rises as the sun sets and continues until the early hours of the morning. There are many restaurants which serve a wide variety of Greek and international cuisine.
When it comes to holiday shopping good taste often seems to evaporate in the hot sunshine and this is when the souvenir and gift shops come into their own. Markets provide the opportunity to buy local goods and ceramics, leather goods, jewellery and embroidered linens are very popular choices. The markets are lively places, often with street entertainment, and are well worth a visit.
The pedestrianised area of Kos Town offers a wider variety of goods.
Kos Eating
As in all Greek islands there are numerous taverns, cafes, bars and restaurants which provide a wide range of food to accommodate most tastes. Traditional Greek food relies heavily on fish simply cooked and is quite delicious. Moussaka is another Greek favourite made from minced lamb and aubergines.
Inland from Kos Town is Platini where most of the island’s Turks have settled and it is here that you can savour delectable Turkish cuisine.
The local wines are inexpensive and usually very palatable.
Local Kos Customs
The family, including the extended family, is held in high regard in Greece. Children are always given a warm welcome and restaurants are usually very child friendly.
When visiting churches and monasteries, shoulders and legs should be covered to avoid offence.
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