The secluded island of Kastellorizo sits off the Turkish coast and has an intimate feel. A small harbour hosts limited boats each week and there are few restaurants or hotels.
The main town stretches colourfully around a turquoise bay with a ruined castle above. Visit the 14th century ruin of Castello Rosso (the Red Castle of the Knights of St John), whose cisterns offer sweeping views over the Turkish coastline.
1. Hotel Kastellorizo
Kastellorizo is one of the most beautiful islands in the Dodecanese and a favourite with many travelers. The main town (Castellorosso) is built on a natural protected harbour bay and is characterised by its coloured houses and narrow alleys covered with stones. The island is known for being friendly and arid – some say it reminds them of Symi but without the price tag and yachts hogging the port!
The hotel is located right in the port and offers a range of rooms from studios to maisonettes, varying in size. They all have balconies, kitchenette area, satellite TV, CD/DVD player and free WiFi access. Some are split level and feature a private hydromassage pool. A continental breakfast is served each morning. The hotel also has a wooden bar and a small garden with lounge chairs, tables and umbrellas along the harbour.
Another great option is the traditional apartment complex Karnayo. The apartments are cosy and spacious with an interior design that is in harmony with the traditional architecture of the island. There are free Wi-Fi and a flat screen TV in each room. A mini refrigerator, a dishwasher and a fully equipped kitchen are also included. Guests can choose to have breakfast in their rooms or at the restaurant on site.
Both the hotels offer stunning views of the island’s crystal clear waters. The west side of the harbour is particularly lovely since it’s very quiet and offers a unique sea entry with ladders. The ruins of the old castle can be visited on the east side of the harbour and include parts of two towers, a covered cistern, and some Doric carvings and inscriptions.
2. Mediterraneo
There are a few small hotels and villas to choose from in Kastellorizo, but Mediterraneo stands out as the best option. It’s located just a short walk from the main harbour bay and offers an oasis of simple, chic comfort. Its rooms have a discreet style that blends with the island’s traditional architecture, and the views over the bay are spectacular.
The hotel also has its own private area for swimming, which means you can enjoy a swim without being disturbed by boats and other swimmers. There’s also a terrace with loungers, so you can spend your day relaxing and taking in the views of the crystal-blue sea.
A stay at the hotel is like entering a movie set. You’ll feel like a celebrity at this picturesque harbour, which has the feel of a small fishing village rather than a big Greek resort. You can take a municipal minibus to the ‘town’ of Kastelorizo (also known as Megisti), where you’ll be transported into a postcard-perfect world of charming two- and three-storied neoclassical houses. There aren’t a single architectural faux-pas to be found, and the whole town looks like it was designed by a master interior designer.
You can also explore the ruins of the Castello Rosso, or the Castle of the Knights of St John. These 14th century ruins overlook the harbour and feature sweeping views over to Turkey as well as stone-hewn Lycian tombs and cisterns.
The island has a few hiking trails, which give you amazing views over the azure sea. You can also visit the Blue Cave, which is only accessible by boat. Kastellorizo is a tranquil and unspoiled island, and mass tourism has not yet arrived here. It’s the perfect place to relax and unwind, enjoy some of the best local food and a few glasses of tsipouro in the evening.
3. Poseidon Hotel
Poseidon is a hotel for those who want to experience the true essence of a luxury vacation. It’s a place where you can truly indulge yourself with top quality facilities, a remarkable friendly environment and the extra care of perfectly trained personnel.
Located within picturesque countryside, Hotel Poseidon provides guests with comfortable accommodation and an excellent range of facilities, such as luggage storage, free Wi-Fi and a sun deck. It is situated a brief walk from Gulf of Salerno.
The hotel has 48 rooms and suites which are individually decorated with a combination of white walls, Maiolica tile floors and wood accents. Some have terraces, while others have sea or garden views.
There are also a number of facilities on offer to guests at the property, including a Jacuzzi, an indoor pool and a rooftop bar. A sauna and a Turkish steam bath are available to help you relax during your stay.
Hotel Poseidon offers a variety of dining options, including its own restaurant and the on-site Café del Mare. The staff will be happy to suggest places for you to eat out in the local area.
The property is also a short drive from Icmeler and Marmaris. It’s the perfect base for exploring all that the surrounding area has to offer.
Those staying at the property can take advantage of the free parking on site. For those wanting to travel independently, public transport is readily accessible and can be reached within a few minutes’ walk. For those who prefer to sightsee in private, car hire can be arranged through the reception at an additional cost. All of the hotel’s rooms are air conditioned and offer a mini bar, heating and wireless internet access.
4. Megisti Hotel
Located on the edge of Kastellorizo’s beautiful natural harbour between the cape of Agios Stephanos and Nifti, Megisti Hotel is a true gem, designed in absolute harmony with the island’s breathtaking natural surroundings. Featuring spectacular views of the harbour and its beautiful waters, this charming hotel offers luxury suites and rooms, all with sea view, as well as an incredible sun terrace for lazing by the sea and soaking up the sunshine.
With just 19 rooms, this 4-star property is one of the most affordable hotels in Meyisti. It is conveniently positioned just 25 minutes’ walk from the ancient Palaiokastro of Kastelorizo Acropolis and less than 1 km from Popular Art Museum. Guests can also explore cultural venues such as Monastery of Saint George and Osman Agha Ottoman Mosque.
The guestrooms at Megisti Hotel offer modern comforts such as minibars and flat-screen TVs. They are also fitted with a bathtub or shower and bathrobes and slippers.
For those wanting to dine out, the hotel is within walking distance of a few restaurants. It is also a short drive from Bilal’s Beach and Afantou.
The front desk is available to assist guests with any queries or concerns they may have during their stay. Megisti Hotel provides free private parking on site for those travelling with a car.
5. Traditional Apartments Alexandra
It’s easy to get a room at Traditional Apartments Alexandra for a reasonable price. The hotel offers rooms that are a good size for a small island and have all the amenities you need, such as an en suite bathroom, refrigerator, flat-screen TV, and air conditioning. The hotel also has free Wi-Fi and a private parking space for those travelling with a car.
Kastellorizo, or Megisti as it is officially known, is one of the most beautiful islands in the Mediterranean. It is still not a mass tourist destination, but it has gained some fame in recent decades due to the Oscar winning movie Mediterraneo being filmed on the island. Visiting Kastellorizo is like entering a dream world, with picturesque two and three storied neoclassical buildings, all in perfect harmony with the surrounding nature.
The best time to visit Kastellorizo is during the peak season from June to September, when the weather is warm and sunny. However, the crowds can be a bit too much for some travelers, especially if they are looking for peace and quiet. If you’re looking for a less busy experience, then the shoulder seasons of May and October are better options.
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