Karpathos is one of Greece’s best kept secrets. A remote jewel in the sun in the Southeastern Aegean Sea, the island is second largest in the Dodecanese Group.
With majestic mountains and 160 kilometers of coastline, the island boasts a glorious natural environment with some of the most beautiful beaches in the Aegean to explore.
A world of traditions comes to life in colorful, local festivals, charming fishing villages and the spirit of the port town – all within short reach.
In the north of the island, the hillside magic of Olympos, known as the most traditional village of Greece, is a living folk museum where the islanders still wear local costumes and maintain a traditional language.
SOPHID Insider Excursions reflect our personal journey of discovery through the magic of one of Greece’s most unspoiled islands.
All of us at SOPHID welcome each guest to enjoy island life as an ‘insider’ joining us for unique experiences close to Nature and the island’s authentic culture.
Each excursion captures the mood of the moment sparked by the camaraderie of a small group of adventure travelers en route to awesome places off the touristic radar.
Choose happiness and share the wonder of Karpathos, in ways you could only hope to imagine.
Enjoy!
SUPER ‘2 in 1’ NATURE ESCAPE
new sensations with every step
UNIQUE MOUNTAIN TREK, OVERNIGHT CAMPING & RETURN BOAT CRUISE
Mountain trekking, overnight camping with a return boat cruise along the island’s eastern beaches is the adventurer’s perfect dream. The landscape of the Vroukounda peninsula and northern coast is an explorer’s paradise. You will follow an ancient stone hiking path through untouched Nature where you will camp overnight under a galaxy of bright stars.
Just a short climb from the dock, an island legend meets the eye. The wondrous simplicity of a humble stone church front adorned with sacred symbols including a cross, church bell and icons expresses the spirituality of the place. A visit to the tiny chapel of Ai-Giannis (St. John the Baptist) built deep into a cave, situated at the edge of a cliff, is a mystical experience. There is no entrance door but an opening in the cave where a dim passageway with stone steps leads down to the magnificent aura of the sanctuary glowing in the candlelight. Every year on August 29th, the church is the site of the Feast of St. John, one of the island’s most important festivals, where locals arrive wearing traditional dress for a 3- day. celebration of food, wine and dancing.
With stunning views, what better place to enjoy a picnic and basket lunch packed with the best combination of Italian and Greek super foods for continuing your journey in the great outdoors.
Wake up and the dream’s not over!
SUPER ‘2 in 1’ NATURE ESCAPE combines the land excursions of SOPHID INSIDERS EXCURSIONS — an all-in-one SUPER EXPERIENCE!
The walking distance is 12 km about 4 hours.
Please contact us for further information
ORGANIC FARM
true taste of island life
OLYMPOS/ AVLONA
Scenic drive to the island’s mountainous northern region where time stands still at the hilltop village of Olympos. Spectacular view of the windmills, bell tower and 16th century church. From laced boots, the residents still wear colorful, traditional costumes – and shoes, to rhythmic guitar strings, Olympos is the birthplace of Giannis Philippakis, lead singer and guitarist of the British indie rock band Foals, the village tells a story of its own.
From Olympos to the agricultural village of Avlona, the northernmost village accessible by car.
A tiny (almost deserted) village built on a mountain slope overlooking a fertile valley, the rugged scenery resembles another universe. In the past, the area was the island’s agricultural hub.
There is one fantastic tavern where we enjoy a memorable lunch of homemade Karpathian specialties prepared by Anna, the owner. There is no menu. A full meal of delicious local dishes offers a true taste of authentic, island cuisine made from the organically grown vegetables of her garden.
Please contact us for further information
QUAD BIKING
‘QUADruple’ Experience
trail riding, village hopping, aperitivo stop, mountainside picnic
Private Quad Ride to KALI LIMNI
For the true adventurer who loves the thrill of an open road trip and ‘top experiences.’
Kali Limni is the highest peak on Karpathos offering a panoramic view over the sea stretching from Rhodes to Crete. Along the route, we pass several small villages before stopping at FINIKI, a charming coastal village built by fishermen. Overlooking the calm waters of the natural bay, what better place to cool down with a refreshing aperitivo. From here, the road climbs to the top of Kali Limni where we enjoy a picnic on the mountain peak. The road trip takes one hour to reach Kali Limni without stops.
Please contact us for further information
*Depending on weather conditions
AIRLINE TICKET QUOTE
