In the eastern part of the island, at the end of a small dirt road, you will find one of the most beautiful beaches of the Aegean.
Apella Beach in Karpathos combines the perfect balance between peaceful isolation and the basic infrastructure of an organised beach in one of the most idyllic spots of southern Aegean.
The magic of Apella Beach, in the eastern part of Karpathos, has been reported on in travel magazines and websites, both domestic and international, and is now considered a good reason to travel to the beautiful Dodecanese island.
After all, it is no coincidence that this beautiful beach, with its impressive pine forest that reaches almost to the sea, has twice been voted the best in Europe.
A fabulous coastline lined with soft white sand and several pebbles extending to the seabed and clear waters reminds one of an exotic paradise, a place unique and untouched even though it is located on a Greek island that experiences increasing tourist development every year.
On the one hand, some sunbeds and umbrellas for rent offer comfort for moments of relaxation under the sun; nevertheless, because there are now more and more people in Apella, the truth is that the available sunbeds are not enough for everyone. So make sure to be there early in the morning or bring an umbrella for shade.
Fortunately, there is enough space for everyone and plenty of trees to offer coolness to even the most unprepared.
Snorkelling in Apella is more than a must. Bring a mask and snorkel and get ready to discover a wonderful world at the bottom since the crystal clear waters allow the growth of a huge variety of marine life that will amaze you.
Descending towards the coast, you can stop at the chapel of Agios Loukas, a small church of the 13th century built entirely inside a rock full of amazing hagiographies and frescoes of inestimable value. Its mystical, overwhelming atmosphere is well worth your visit.
How to get there?
The easiest way to get to Apella is with your own means of transport from the village of Pigadia. Follow the provincial road Aperi—Spoas until you see the sign that leads to the beach. You will turn right there. The road is not easy because it narrows sharply and has many turns.
However, the route will compensate you both for the wonderful view where you will leave your vehicle and for the picture you will see at the end of the dirt road that leads to the coast.
If you do not travel by car or motorbike, you can take the "Sofia My Love" boat from Pigadia. It passes through Apella and ends at Kyra Panagia Beach. The route is daily, and lunch is also possible on board.
Alternatively, you can eat in Kyra Panagia, which is no more than 2.5 kilometres by road from Apella. There, you will find many restaurants and taverns.
Note that Apella has only one cafe-restaurant before the dirt road starts. It only serves Greek coffee and frappe, so if you want something different, get it before you get to the beach.
Where to eat?
Kavos Beach Bar Restaurant
Modern restaurant on the equally beautiful Kyra Panagia beach. It serves original fish-based dishes and delicious pasta that smells of the sea.
Try shrimp barley, tuna fillet, or—if available—the excellent, well-cooked seabream that arrives in the Kavos kitchen directly from the boat that fishes offshore every day.
Appetisers such as kadaifi saganaki and large salads are also very nice. It is open early for breakfast and coffee.
Kelaria Restaurant & Cafe Bar
The veranda has a very beautiful view of the sea within walking distance of Apella. It is an excellent choice for those who want to combine their walk with a swim in Kyra Panagia and then with a meal at one of the best restaurants in the area.
All the dishes are made with local products, while the appetisers are special and delicious. Choose eggplant rolls with local cheese from the first courses and, of course, the excellent pasta for which Kelaria is famous.
To Votsalo
Votsalo, about 3 kilometres from Apella, offers home-cooked dishes (pastitsio, moussaka, etc.) as well as well-cooked skewers, potatoes, and fish. Try grilled octopus, fried shrimp, salads, and, of course, its incredible extra-large lobster pasta.
Everything you need for a perfect end to the day after perfect swims on two of the most beautiful beaches of Karpathos.
READ MORE: Naxos: The island of self-sufficiency and exploration.
