‘Notes from the field – Samos, Ikaria and Lemnos’ is the latest in our series of blogs following the Sunvil team as they explore our destinations in search of hidden gems and to handpick our holiday accommodation. Written by Stella, a member of our expert Greek team, this piece details her experiences on the islands and the highlights from her trip.
Where did you go?
I started my journey on the Aegean island of Samos before visiting the islands of Patmos, Ikaria, and Lemnos.
What was your favourite property and why?
Samos
My favourite property on Samos was Villa Penny. It’s elevated position affords amazing views to the sea, and these can be enjoyed from our apartments, the pool and the sun terrace. The property is really well looked after by Dimitris, the friendly owner and the two new units, in particular, are really beautifully furnished.
Villa Penny
Ikaria
My favourite property on Ikaria was the Erofili Hotel. Once again this property has stunning views, a good level of service and it is within easy walking distance to amenities and the beach.
Erofili Hotel
Lemnos
My favourite property on Lemnos was the Plati Beach Hotel. This is a small, friendly and family run property right in directly on Plati Beach, the perfect location for beach lovers. The hotel has a very good taverna and bar with fabulous sea views – they also offer beach service!
Plati Beach Hotel
What was your favourite viewpoint?
Samos
My favourite viewpoint on Samos was the view of Pythagorion harbour from the Hera II Hotel. The view of the sunrise over Turkey from the Kerveli Village Hotel was also breathtaking.
View over Pythagorion Harbour
View of Turkey during sunset
Ikaria
My favourite viewpoint on Ikaria has to be the sunset I watched from Afianes Winery.
Sunset at Afianes Winery
Patmos
My favourite view here was of a local gentleman riding his donkey – quite a unique sight in most of Greece these days!
Local man on donkey
Lemnos
My favourite viewpoint here was the sunset on Plati Beach.
Sunset at Plati Beach
Your favourite meal?
Samos
Fresh Kalamari with a Greek salad – fresh and cooked to perfection
Kalamari
Patmos
Chicken souvlaki gyros cooked on charcoal and Greek salad – the perfect quick snack
Gyros
Ikaria
Freshly caught fish with olive oil and lemon juice
Lemnos
Prawn Saganaki – a traditional dish made of tomatoes, prawns and feta cheese crumbled on top
What was your favourite activity?
Samos
On Samos, I enjoyed strolling through the pretty streets of Kokkari and the harbour, filled with shops, tavernas and café bars.
Kokkari
Ikaria
Visiting the Monastery of Theoktisis in the village of Piga, which dates back to the 1600’s. The little church is decorated with frescoes and is really beautiful.
Monastery of Theoktisis
Monastery of Theoktisis
What was your favourite beach?
Samos
My favourite beach on Samos was Limnionas Beach on the south west coast. The beach is quiet with a couple of tavernas and crystal-clear water.
Lemnos
My favourite beach on Lemnos was Plati Beach. It is beautifully sandy, gently shelving and completely calm – perfect for swimming with a good choice of water sports available, plus a selection of beach bars.
Plati Beach
The highlight of your trip.
Spending two nights on the island of Ikaria. It’s a truly stunning and unique island: mountainous and rugged; the locals are very self-sufficient and forward thinking. They spend lots of time socialising outside the home –which they feel contributes to their good health and happiness. Even the ‘Cafeneon’ traditionally for men is used by both sexes on Ikaria which is quite unusual. The island grows many different herbs and produces honey made with pine, lavender and heather made completely naturally using the same techniques as their ancestors.