MUGFOUNDRY

Mykonos, Crete, Rhodes, Santorini: all stunning Greek islands we’ve heard of time and time again.

But if you’re in search of an island less travelled, look no further than Kastos. With unspoiled nature and tranquillity in abundance, it’s a brilliant alternative to the likes of popular destinations such as Corfu.

Home to less than 100 residents, Kastos feels like a ‘floating village’ according to travel expert Claire Shields.

‘With only one small harbour, a cluster of stone houses and a few tavernas, time seems to slow down here,’ she says.

If you’re a sucker for a beach and turquoise water, you’ll be right at home on this small island.

Things in Kastos to do and see

When you’re surrounded by shimmering ocean there’s one must-do: water sports. From swimming to snorkelling and scuba diving to sailing, take the opportunity to do it all.

Paralia Vali beach is a short walk from the port and is the most popular beach, while Limni beach is the best one for swimming.

Babakia and Vrisidia are both on the east coast of the island while Aberlaki is to the south – all are accessible by car or by foot.

Another must-visit is Agios Emilianos, home of Fokotrypa (Seal Hole) – a small cave with a beach inside it.

It’s full of history too, with archaeological findings from as far back as the Roman and Early Byzantine years. Kastos was a refuge for fighters and civilians during the Greek Revolution, when Greeks revolted against the Ottoman Empire in 1821.

There’s also a Marine Museum – ‘Home of the Fin Whale’ – which holds the skeleton of a young fin whale that washed up on the shore of the island in the 70s.

Where to eat and drink on Kastos

At the quaint seaport of Kastos, stop for sunset drinks at the Windmill Bar, which has panoramic views of the ocean and surrounding islands.

Mylos Bar is another spot with a ‘spectacular’ and ‘phenomenal’ view of the Ionian Sea, according to travellers.

El.a Cafe Bar also comes highly recommended. TripAdvisor reviewer Iskrapari wrote: ‘Beautiful island Kastos, but it’s upgraded by this particular bar. It is not only the magnificent view from the balcony but… warm and friendly… excellent drinks and especially the rock, jazz, blues dance that make up its uniqueness.’

A mini-market behind the main harbour has essentials like fruit and veg, but don’t expect to find any cash points, or chemists.

Card payments aren’t typically accepted here, so make sure to take out plenty of cash before you go.

Neighbouring Kalamos

While you’re staying on Kastos, you should take the opportunity to visit its neighbour Kalamos, via ferry or boat.

Covered in pine forests, it’s a chance to really switch off and connect with nature. Travel and yachting expert Claire says: ‘Sailing around Kalamos means discovering quiet beaches, sea caves, and perfect little swim with no one else around.

‘It’s also great for slow living. You will not find big beach bars or resorts, just local tavernas with fresh fish, homemade wine and homegrown vegetables.’

If you’re a keen walker, the Kalamos mountain range will give you some breathtaking views, while some creeks are great to explore via kayak or small boat.

You can also explore the two villages Kalamos on the east coats, and Episkopi on the northwest coast.

Kalamos is your best bet for restaurants, cafes and shops, with a small promenade and some limited hotels. Episkopi has a harbour, a single restaurant and a small cluster of houses, although its near to the ruins of a Venetian castle which is great to explore.

Getting there

Travelling to Kastos isn’t as straightforward as more popular Greek destinations, but the good news is it won’t break the bank.

The easiest route is to fly from London Gatwick to Preveza Airport, also known as Aktion National Airport in Greece. It’ll cost you £108 per person for a return flight with easyJet, and the journey takes around three-and-a-half hours.

This will land you just 6.7km from Preveza and 20km from the nearby island of Lefkada. From there, you’ll need to get a transfer to Mytikas, either by taxi or bus.

By taxi will set you back around £15 but you’ll get to the port in just 11 minutes, while a bus is more expensive and will take hours because of the long-winded route.

Once you catch the ferry (which only operates once daily) it’ll take 40 minutes before you finally reach your destination.

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