Visit the "Queen" of southern Evia
Karystos in Evia island, is a unique tourist destination that perfectly combines island and mountain landscapes with serene azure seas. In recent years, it has managed to impress and position itself on the global tourism map as one of the top choices for vacations.
The easy access from Athens, by ferry from Rafina to Marmari or from Agia Marina to Nea Styra, two equally amazing tourist destinations in southern Evia, makes it an ideal destination for escapades or vacations. Here, visitors have the opportunity to discover stunning landscapes and engage in various activities.
The area offers incredible opportunities for exploration and adventure, with trails leading to beautiful mountains, ancient forests, and gorges. Visitors can enjoy panoramic views that take their breath away and explore the wild nature through hiking, horseback riding, and mountain biking.
The beaches of Karystos, divided between the Aegean and the Evian Gulf, are equally enchanting. From small, secluded beaches with crystal clear waters and fine golden sand or colorful pebbles to organized resorts with all the amenities, every visitor can find the ideal spot to relax and enjoy the unique summer sunset.
Moreover, Karystos is known for its rich local tradition and culture, reflected in its traditional villages, historic monuments, and local events. The unique local products, traditional music, and dances offer a complete experience for visitors who wish to delve deeper into the tradition and history of the area.
The Charming Town with Rich Tradition Evolved into a Cosmopolitan Tourist Destination
Karystos, built in the embrace of a petal-shaped bay at the southern tip of the island of Evia, is an ideal tourist destination just a “breath” from Athens, combining the tranquility of a provincial town with the tourist development that has become very intense in recent years.
The unique architecture of the town with neoclassical buildings, large squares, and the picturesque harbor offering unforgettable sunsets and a unique "promenade," compose a wonderful scenery for relaxation and tranquility.
This scenic destination is very popular for short getaways but also ideal for summer vacations, offering a plethora of accommodation options, restaurants, cafes, and bars, to every visitor.
The area around Karystos is ideal for sea getaways and explorations, and it is a popular destination for sailing and yachting. By renting a boat, you can discover many secluded beaches and scenic bays, perfect for swimming and relaxation. Enjoy the magic of crystal-clear waters and discover the tranquility of the Aegean in a unique landscape that will give you unforgettable images and moments.
Karystos thus maintains a charm that harmoniously combines the past with the present, offering its visitors an unparalleled experience surrounded by natural beauty and its historical heritage.
Historical Crossroads of Civilizations
The area has a rich history. Karystos became a crossroads between the Hellenic world, the Aegean, and the East as early as antiquity due to its geographical location.
The earliest evidence of human presence in the Karystos area in southern Evia dates back to the Neolithic period, between 4000 and 2000 BCE. During antiquity, the city was known by three names: "Karystos," "Cheironia," and "Aegaea."
The most widespread name, "Karystos," is said to derive from Karystos, the son of the Centaur Cheiron and the Naiad Chariklo. There is also another etymological explanation that comes from the verb "karysso," meaning "to proclaim," an interpretation linked to the depiction of the rooster on the city's ancient coins.
Karystos is mentioned in Homeric epics as one of the cities that participated with its ships in the Trojan War. At the end of the 9th century BCE, Dorians from the Spercheios Valley and Oeta migrated and settled in the area. An important historical event is Karystos' resistance against the Persian forces of Datis and Artaphernes in 490 BCE.
After a period of continuous unrest and conflicts, Karystos entered a new phase of development and reorganization. During the Roman period, especially after the time of Augustus (27 BCE), the city was officially incorporated into the province of Achaea, experiencing a period of unprecedented prosperity.
During this time, Karystos intensively exploited its quarries, which were now under imperial supervision. Karystian marble, known as "Carystian stone" or "cipollino," became one of the most sought-after building materials throughout the Mediterranean. It was used in many secular and religious buildings, enhancing the region's reputation and economic power.
Karystos, like the rest of the Roman Empire, became part of the Byzantine Empire of Constantine the Great in 325 CE. The fact that it continued to function as a bishopric, initially under the auspices of the Metropolis of Corinth and from 733 CE of Athens, indicates its importance as a central urban center in Evia.
The economy of Karystos revived in the 11th and 12th centuries, with Edrisi, the Turkish geographer of the 12th century, including it among the rich and beautiful cities of the empire. Main lucrative activities included the fishing of purple dye, silk production, and candle making. The port of Karystos was an important commercial and diplomatic hub.
After the sack of 1204, the Latin Crusaders, having destroyed the city at the foot of Monte Folli, built the Castello Rosso castle at the top of the mountain. According to local tradition, the ancient acropolis of Karystos and later a Byzantine fortress stood on this hill, but none of the visible structures predates the late Byzantine period.
The history of Karystos from the 13th to the 19th century has been closely linked to the life and activities around Castello Rosso, which served as the central residential and administrative center of the region.
Throughout its history, Karystos has been a place of significant geopolitical and economic changes, while maintaining its cultural and historical identity through the difficulties and challenges it faced.
The establishment of "Othonopolis" town by King Otto
Karystos has a strong element of history and cosmopolitan beauty that reflects an era when Greek architecture met European influence. The unique urban planning of the city, commissioned by King Otto, was created by Bavarian engineer Mirebach in 1843 and is an example of the organized urban development of that period.
The spacious streets, large squares, and impressive neoclassical buildings of Karystos are evidence of a well-designed urban landscape that incorporates characteristics of European architecture. This modern urban planning allowed the city to develop in a way that combines functionality with aesthetics, offering a vibrant and accessible space for residents and visitors.
Exploring the Picturesque Villages of Karystos
Divided between the Evian Gulf and the Aegean Sea, the region of Karystos is renowned for its rare flora, picturesque villages, beautiful gorges of the mountain range of Ochi, and sandy beaches with the wild beauty of the wider area.
The wild Cape of Cavo Doro
The Cape of Cavo Doro (or Cavo D'Oro) stands dominantly in the northern region of Kafireas (which means rocks or reef). It is known for its rocky landscape and rugged coves with deep blue waters. However, above all, it is distinguished for its wind-swept character and the chapel of Agios Grigorios (Saint Gregory), which is said to bless the infamous passage due to the strong winds and sea currents.
The prevailing version for the name of the cape, Cavo D'Oro, is believed to originate from Italian sailors of the 14th and 15th centuries. It is thought that the initial designation given was "Cavo duro," meaning resilient or difficult passage. However, the process of copying from one map to another led to the letter "u" being written as "o," resulting in the term "Cavo d'Oro."
An alternative interpretation of the name Cavo D'Oro is that it means "golden cape," as "Oro" in Italian means "gold." It is claimed that its depths are full of gold coins from shipwrecks that have occurred since ancient times in this challenging passage.
The Strait of Cavo Doro, between the islands of Evia and Andros, is busy and considered one of the most dangerous passages in the Aegean for navigation, and its name has been associated with many known and unknown shipwrecks due to the extreme weather phenomena of the area. According to mythology, it is said that the Greek fleet shipwrecked there on its return from Troy.
The villages of Karystos
The villages of Karystos have a rich tradition in animal husbandry and winemaking, characterized by the landscape variations, so be sure to visit them.
The village of Aetos, with its vineyards and orchards, is located to the east of Karystos, while Myloi, a village 5 kilometers north of the town, took its name from the mills that existed next to the stream that runs through the area.
Admire the panoramic view and the clear waters in the villages of Grambia and Mekounida, located west of Castello Rosso, which supplied the castle with water through a Roman aqueduct, and enjoy the lush landscape in Kalivia.
Heading northeast towards the region of Cavo Doro, we encounter many small villages, which alternate between the mountainous massif and the coastline, within a unique and wild landscape.
Platanistos is the largest of the villages of this region with perennial plane trees, willows, and poplars creating an oasis of coolness in the dry and rocky landscape of the cape, with its main attractions being the waterfalls and the stone bridge, while nearby are the ruins of a settlement dedicated to Poseidon.
A particularly famous village of Cavo Doro is undoubtedly Andias, located between the peaks of Aidoni and Milia of Mount Ochi. The reason? The "whistling language," a communication code consisting solely of whistles, which has aroused worldwide interest. Since the villagers are now few, do not miss the opportunity to visit them to hear this unique language.
On your way to the cape, you will also encounter other small villages and settlements such as Agioi and Kastri with their picturesque beaches, Elaiona leading to the endless beach of Potami, Komito and Evangelismos with their respective beaches, Kapsouri with its waterfalls, Thymi starting from the magical gorge and ending at the beach of Archampolis, and the remote Zacharia and Amygdalia with their hidden beaches of the same name.
Amazing Landmarks and Unique Natural Landscapes with Wild Beauty: From the Dragon Houses of Ochi and the Dimosaris Gorge to the Wind Gates of Cavo Doro
The region of Karystos is a treasure trove of history and tradition, with its unique landmarks, scenic villages, and local products reflecting a rich cultural heritage. Here, traditional arts, music, and dance are intertwined with the most famous cape of the central Aegean, the legendary Cavo Doro, under the imposing mass of Ochi Mountain up to the mysterious Dragon House.
The remote picturesque villages of Cavo Doro hide beaches with unique beauty, creating the dominant character of the eastern coastline of Karystos. The Ochi Mountain, which often ends in gorges and ravines at the sea, and the wild nature with bent and windblown trees and the remote chapels that suddenly appear, create an impressive and unique landscape.
Discovering the Natural Beauty of Karystos: Unique Natural Attractions
The natural wealth of the area is unique, with many locations designated as Natura 2000 special protection zones. However, the intense presence of wind farms in the region raises concerns among nature conservation organizations about their impact on the natural environment.
Highlighting the magic of nature, Kastanolongos, the unique chestnut forest with ancient chestnut trees, the impressive Dimosaris Gorge with waterfalls and unique flora and fauna, as well as the Platanistos waterfalls and its bridge, showcase the true beauty of the area, creating an enchanting world full of mystery.
Kastanolongos: The Enchanting Ancient Chestnut Forest of Karystos
Kastanolongos, widely known as the Chestnut Forest or simply chestnut trees, is an area in Karystos located below the peak of Ochi mountain at 900 to 1100 meters and hosts a rare ancient chestnut forest. This historic area, known as "Longos" by the old Cavo Doro inhabitants, is deeply connected to antiquity.
Kastanolongos remains a monument of natural heritage, with the trees estimated to be between 200 and 450 years old, serving as a link to the distant past of the region.
In the area, there is also the Ochi Mountain Refuge in a stunning location, next to the ancient chestnut forest and near a potable water spring. This location, at an altitude of 1050 meters, offers breathtaking views and is the ideal place for nature lovers and mountain activities enthusiasts. The peak of Ochi, standing at 1398 meters, is about an hour's walk from the refuge, offering an additional enchanting hike.
The Dragon House of Mountain Ochi
One of the most famous landmarks of Karystos and Evia in general, evoking awe and mystery regarding its origin, is the Dragon House of Ochi. This cyclopean structure stands at an altitude of 1,386 meters, just before the summit "Prophet Elias" of Mount Ochi and east of the chapel of the same name.
According to one theory, the Dragon House of Ochi was a shrine dedicated to Zeus and Hera. Another theory suggests it served as a residence for quarry workers, while a third hypothesis posits it was a Roman outpost for protecting the quarries of Karystos. The stone building is estimated to have been constructed between the 6th century BC and the 2nd or 1st century BC. It is also speculated that it might have been built by Carian slaves or Dryopes, who migrated to southern Evia after being expelled from Mount Parnassus.
Ancient Quarries on Mount Ochi
Karystos, although widely known today for its trademark schist stone, was renowned in antiquity for its famous green marble, which was the main export product of the region. Karystos extensively exploited its quarries from ancient times, which later came under Roman imperial supervision (1st century BC-2nd century AD). Karystian marble, also known as "Karystian stone" or "cipollino," with its white-green hues and characteristic veins, became one of the most sought-after building materials throughout the Mediterranean.
Evidence of the historical activity of the ancient quarry is still present today, with five impressive 12-meter-long carved monolithic columns or cylinders, as they are referred to today, preserved at the foot of Mount Ochi in the Kylindroi of Myloi area. These stand as significant archaeological findings. The decision to leave the columns there, despite being already sculpted, remains one of the region's unexplained mysteries.
Approximately 550 meters west of the Cylinders lies another impressive finding related to the Roman quarries: the Tsoukali. This carved round monolith has an external diameter of 2.7 meters, an internal diameter of 1.8 meters, and a depth of half a meter.
The Dimosaris Gorge
Located on the northeastern side of Mount Ochi, the Dimosaris Gorge spans approximately 10 kilometers and is one of the most beautiful natural ecosystems in Greece, attracting hikers from around the world. The gorge is a protected area and part of the Natura 2000 network, serving as a habitat for rare flora and fauna. Along the route, you can admire the characteristic blue dragonflies and wildflowers, while eagles, owls, blackbirds, and water frogs accompany you throughout your hike. Be cautious of the numerous snake species present, especially if hiking in the summer, and dress appropriately.
The hiking trail begins at Petrokavalo (at an altitude of 950 meters), accessible by car, and ends at the beach of Kallianos. The path is well-marked and easy to follow. To your left runs the Dimosaris stream, which flows through the gorge and empties into the Aegean Sea.
A little after the settlement of Lenosaioi, you will reach Skala, the narrowest point of the gorge, where small waterfalls and natural pools form. Adventurous hikers can take a dip here, but be prepared—the crystal-clear waters of the stream are cold even in summer.
The route is lush with vegetation and downhill all the way. It is considered relatively easy, and the distance to Kallianos can be covered in about 4 to 5 hours, depending on your pace. The initial part of the trail to Lenosaioi features a steeper medieval cobblestone path. From there, the route follows the stream bed down to the small bridge at Kallianos beach, and the descent becomes easier.
The rich vegetation, scenic views, and serene atmosphere make the Dimosaris Gorge a must-visit destination for nature lovers and hiking enthusiasts.
The amazing Dimosaris Gorge in Karystos / Photo Elias Argyropoulos
Exploring Anemopiles (The Wind Gates) of Cavo Doro
The reference to the area as "wind gates" originates from its mountainous terrain, the strong winds it experiences, and the cultural aspect that connects to the region's history. The terrain in this area is predominantly mountainous, with few plains that serve as grazing fields. Here, nature exudes a rich variety, with olive trees, oaks, kermes oaks, planes, and other water-loving plants complementing the area's flora.
The region of Ochi is a true botanical paradise for Greece and Europe, hosting over 700 plant species, including rare, endemic, and protected ones. The endemic plants have survived in the rugged mountains and wild coasts of Ochi, making the area unique.
Beyond the rich vegetation, the area is home to a variety of wild animals that contribute to its ecological diversity. Foxes, hares, badgers, partridges, and many other bird species live here, creating a beautiful ecosystem that impresses visitors.
Visiting the Platanistos waterfalls and the Lovers' Bridge is a unique experience. As you walk through dense forests, you can admire the waterfalls and take a dip in the cool waters if you wish.
Besides the waterfall, the visit offers many attractions, such as the springs and the traditional watermill in Panohori, the stone bridge of Artan craftsmanship in Mastrogianeika, the magnificent ancient walls in Elliniko, and the church of Agios Konstantinos and Agia Eleni (Saints Constantine and Helen), built with marbles from the ancient buildings of the area.
Archambolis Gorge
The Archambolis Gorge, hidden between the picturesque villages of Drymonari and Thymi in the region of Kafireas, is a natural treasure with rich history and unique biodiversity. The vertical cliffs and dramatic twists of the gorge create a landscape of wild beauty that ends at a dreamy beach.
The historical significance of the area is enhanced by the ruins of the ancient city and acropolis dating back to the 6th to 7th century BC, providing evidence of a once-thriving civilization. The presence of slag on the beach and among the ruins also testifies to the historical metallurgical activity in the area.
Medieval red castle (Kokkino Kastro - Castello Rosso)
The imposing red castle, Kokkino Kastro or Castello Rosso as the locals call it, is located at the foot of Mount Ochi, between the villages of Grampias and Myloi, just 4 kilometers from Karystos. The impressive medieval fortress got its name from the reddish schist stones with which it was built, giving it a slightly red hue.
The castle had double walls and a large inner enclosure. Today, mainly the outer walls, parts of the inner fortification, and the first level of various buildings that served as residences, warehouses, and spaces for the guard are preserved.
From its prominent position, you can enjoy the unlimited view of the Karystos Bay and the plain that stretches out in front, while you can admire the rare wildflowers growing on the fortress walls. According to researchers, the castle was built by the Lombards, specifically by the Veronese baron Ravano dalle Carceri, between 1209 and 1216, on the foundations of a pre-existing Byzantine fortress on the hill.
The Venetian Mpourtzi (Fortress)in the Port of Karystos
The Venetian fortress, at the eastern end of the port of Karystos, is a well-preserved medieval monument and the city's landmark. The fortress is two stories high with a hexagonal shape, has many battlements, and 24 embrasures in its outer fortification. During the summer months, Mpourtzi hosts an art exhibition featuring works by artists from Karystos and Southern Evia.
The Archaeological Museum of Karystos
The Archaeological Museum of Karystos is housed in the western wing of the Giokaleio Cultural Center. Its collection includes sculptures, inscriptions, and figurines from the wider area of Karystia, with exhibits dating from prehistoric times to the Roman period. The museum also displays findings from the legendary Dragon Houses of Ochi.
Discover more here about the attractions of Karystos in Evia.
Top Accommodation Options in Karystos
Karystos, a beautiful seaside destination in southern Evia, offers a variety of accommodation options to suit every taste and budget. From luxury hotels and private villas to more economical rooms and traditional lodgings, Karystos is perfect for visitors seeking comfort near the sea.
Hotels
For those seeking a bit more luxury, the hotels in Karystos offer high-level services, gourmet restaurants, and comfortable rooms with stunning sea views. Many of these hotels also feature spas and gyms, making them ideal for relaxation and luxury. Find the best hotels in Karystos here.
Private Villas
For more privacy and personalized hospitality, private villas offer excellent options with pools, spacious living rooms, and fully equipped kitchens. They are ideal for families or large groups who wish to stay together and enjoy their stay with autonomy. Find the best private villas in Karystos here.
Economical Rental Rooms and Guesthouses
There are also many affordable options for accommodation in economical rental rooms and guesthouses, which offer comfortable lodging with basic amenities. These options are suitable for travelers who wish to explore the area without spending much on their stay. Find the best options for rental rooms and guesthouses in Karystos here.
Whether you are looking for luxury and comfort or prefer something more economical or with a traditional character, Karystos has something to offer for every type of visitor.
Additionally, you have the option to find accommodations in other wonderful tourist destinations near Karystos, such as Marmari and Nea Styra. These areas also offer a plethora of accommodation options, catering to all tastes and needs.
Where to Go Out in Karystos
Karystos, with its picturesque port and traditional villages, offers many and varied options for going out, successfully combining the beauty of the landscape with a lively social scene.
The Port of Karystos with the Unique Promenade
The central port is a lively destination, ideal for going out from morning till night. There, you can enjoy your coffee or drink at one of the many cafes and bars along the beach, offering stunning sea views. On summer evenings, many of these venues host DJs and live bands, providing a pleasant atmosphere for socializing and fun.
In the port of Karystos, you will find numerous excellent dining options to suit every gastronomic preference. From traditional tavernas and fish tavernas, where you can enjoy fresh seafood, delicious local meats, and local wines, to fantastic gourmet restaurants offering contemporary cuisine with unique culinary proposals.
For dessert lovers, the unique patisseries and cafes in the area offer a variety of handmade delicacies to satisfy every sweet tooth. Visiting the port, you will have the opportunity to taste authentic local cuisine and enjoy the beautiful view with the stunning sunset.
Strolling Through the Picturesque Villages of the Area
Visit the surrounding villages of Karystos, where traditional cafes and tavernas offer a quieter but equally charming option for going out. Here, you can savor local dishes such as the famous Kourkoubinia or Gkoglies, delicious local meats and cooked specialties, and local wines in a more relaxed environment.
Alternative and Wine Tourism, and Local Products of Karystos
Karystos in Evia, an ideal destination for alternative tourism and wine tourism, invites visitors to explore the rich products of the area. In Karystos, every landscape is characterized by the products of the land, contributing to the cultural identity of the region.
Livestock farming dominates the economic life of Karystia. In the traditional huts of the villages of Ochi, fresh Myzithra and Anthotyro cheeses are made. Local producers create rich-tasting cheeses like the spicy Tulum cheese, also known as barrel-aged cheese, and the Karystia Kefalograviera. The area's delicious meats, such as veal, goat, and sheep, grow freely on the slopes of Ochi, acquiring unique flavors from the wild herbs they find in their natural environment.
Honey holds a high place in the production of local products, with thyme honey, Kisseri from the flowers of heather, and the famous rose honey being examples of excellent quality and variety. The tradition of viticulture is also strong in the plains of Karystos, with Savvatiano grape being the dominant cultivated variety. The production of organic wine represents the new challenge in the area.
On the southern slopes of Mount Ochi, olive trees and citrus trees fill the atmosphere with aromas and scents, offering exquisite products such as the eggplant onion, corn, mountain potatoes, tomatoes, and the cherries of Agios Dimitrios. The olive mills of the area, with a tradition of many years, seal each new harvest with fresh oil on homemade bread and loukoumades (Greek doughnuts).
Karystian women affectionally make Kourkoubinia, also known as Gkoglies in the Arvanitic language, offering a traditional culinary experience. One of the characteristic dishes is a type of fried bread (tiganopsomo), a popular pie fried and served in various variations throughout Evia, especially in Karystos.
Veal head in parchment is one of the popular snacks in the area, along with meatballs with zucchini flowers and "maties" pork, a traditional recipe enjoyed during Christmas. Added to this are Karystian sausages, dried beans with eggplants, cod plaki, and Paspalas Karystou, a unique recipe with pork, salt, and thyme.
The area is also known for its seafood, which is particularly tasty due to the strong sea currents that enrich the waters with nutrients.
For sweet lovers, the area offers Soutzoukia and Moustalevria, two traditional sweets that capture the culinary heritage of Karystia. Almond cookies and the rare Copenhagen are also part of the rich sweet palette of the area, along with the local Pasteli (sesame bar), which adds another option to the selection of sweets.
Musical Tradition and Events in the Area
Karystos boasts two significant aspects of Greece's musical tradition. First, the island music and dance originating from Cavo Doro area villages, known as "Cavontoritiko." Second, it is the birthplace of one of Greece's greatest singers, the national singer-exponent of Mikis Theodorakis's "Romiosini," Grigoris Bithikotsis. The Municipality of Karystos often honors the life and work of Greece’s "Sir" of Greek music with cultural events.
Throughout the year, especially during the summer months, many events and festivals are organized in Karystos, attracting numerous visitors. From cultural festivals to music concerts and traditional fairs, there are options for every taste, giving Karystos a unique cultural character.
Summer at the Beach Bars on Magical Beaches
In the summer, the beach bars and restaurants on the beaches of Karystos offer unique entertainment experiences, with live music and DJ sets that set the rhythm on warm days, while you can enjoy cocktails and rich flavorful dishes. Visitors can relax on the sun loungers, enjoying the view with the waves crashing a few meters away.
Escape for Outdoors in Karystos: 7 Amazing Activities in the World of Nature
Get ready for an unforgettable adventure in Karystos and the surrounding areas, filled with activities that will captivate you:
1.Hiking to the Dragon House of Ochi, Prophet Elias Chapel, and the Ancient Quarry: Discover the rich archaeological heritage of the area as you enter the legendary world of the Dragon House, visit the Prophet Elias Chapel, and uncover the secrets of the ancient quarry.
2.Hiking and Canyoning in the Gorges of the Area: Explore the Gorge of Dimosari, the Gorges of Archampolis and Dipotamos, and the Gorge of Platanistos. Experience an epic adventure through the hidden gorges of the area, featuring stunning landscapes with breathtaking views.
3.Exploring the Cave of Agia Triada (the Holy Trinity): Enjoy a thrilling experience exploring the cave, with impressive stalagmites and stalactites creating a mesmerizing landscape.
4.Mountain Biking: Discover the ultimate freedom of nature as you explore mountain biking trails. Traverse rugged paths and enjoy the unique views of mountain peaks and dense forests surrounding the area.
5.Horse Riding: Enjoy a romantic experience on horseback, exploring the countryside. Let the horse guide you through scenic trails and stunning landscapes, reviving a bygone era of exploration and adventure.
6.Diving and Snorkeling: Explore the richness of the underwater world in the clear waters of the area, discovering marine species and seabeds.
7.Adventure Escapes with a Jeep in Karystos, Mount Ochi, and Cavo Doro: Discover amazing routes with a Jeep, passing through magical paths and unique mountainous landscapes. A perfect adventure for those seeking adrenaline!
Enjoy nature to the fullest with activities that will give you unique experiences and unforgettable memories, filled with the magic of Karystos and its surroundings.
Over 50 Beaches in the Area of Karystos for Exploration and Magical Dives
It is estimated that in the area of Karystos and in Cavo Doro region, there are over 50 unique beaches, each with its own charm and beauty. These beaches offer a variety of options for every taste and preference.
From free beaches with golden sands and fine pebbles to organized beaches with all amenities and services, and from secluded beaches for ultimate privacy, each of these beaches promises a unique experience and unforgettable vacation time. Whether you are seeking peace and seclusion or action and liveliness, you will find the perfect seaside environment that suits you in this stunning region of Greece.
For those seeking a quick getaway to the sea, Kremala, Gallida, and Rigea are ideal choices, just a short distance from the city center towards the west.
To the west, you can choose from many of the magical exotic beaches of Paksimada on the four consecutive coves with cosmopolitan Agia Paraskevi with its turquoise waters and the homonymous Beach Bar at the center.
Starting from the port heading southeast, the sandy beaches of Psili Ammos, Marmara, Mpouros, and Alykes (Kavos) are a must-visit for water sports enthusiasts and families, as their shallow waters are ideal for swimming and playing with children.
For lovers of the contrasting wild beauty where the mountain meets the sea, you can head to the cape of Cavos Doro: about 30 kilometers from Karystos lies Potami, a wide endless strip of sand at the mouth of the Platanistos stream with a view of the island of Andros, which will enchant you. The area of Cavo Doro or Kafireas hides dozens of beaches with easy or difficult access, waiting for you to discover them.
Special mention will be given to the hidden but magical beach of Archampolis, which you can only visit by hiking through its gorge or by sea with a private boat or tourist boats that makes scheduled trips from the port of Karystos.
Check out more here about the magical beaches of Karystos.
The magical beaches of Karystos / Photo Amazing Evia
Tips: If you're looking for more action and exploration in the Cyclades islands, then you have an excellent choice. Since last year, there has been a ferry service connecting Karystos with Syros, Tinos, and Andros, offering two weekly routes.
Info: If you want to visit Karystos quickly and easily from Athens, Karystos is connected by ferryboat with Marmari from Rafina and to Nea Styra from Agia Marina. It is also 120 km away from Chalkida if you want to visit it by road.
If you want more information about the area, click here.
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