The Greek island of Lipsi is ranked in the top 10 alternative destinations of the world, according to Girovagate.com, one of the largest travel blogs in Italy.
"Lipsi means authentic Greece," the author of the article said, adding that on the island of Calypso, the beaches, the local cuisine, the activities and sea excursions leave the visitor speechless.
The list also includes Lapland, Seville, Parma, South Holland, the Alps, the Wild West, Tuscany, the castles of Transylvania and Ancona.
"The island of Lipsi maintained its strength last summer, exceeding 90 pct of the arrivals in 2019, not only of Greeks but also of foreign travelers. Especially the Italians have always placed us at the top of their preferences, thanks to our targeted strategy," the mayor of Lipsi, Fotis Maggos, said.
What you need to know about Lipsi, Greece
There is no direct daily ferry or air connection to the island via mainland Greece, so the options to get there would include a ferry trip from other Dodecanese islands. Only the Island of Kos provides connections to get to this island paradise.
Lipsi is not just one island, but a cluster of islets located in the southeastern Aegean. The collective name comes from the largest island of all, Lipsi, which is formed by landmasses joined by a narrow isthmus.
Low hills and valleys, as well as a rocky coastline and several bays, are part of the landscape of Lipsi.
Cars and roads are not common on the island; therefore most of the action takes place along the pedestrian seafront promenade. A small fishing port and several must-visit tavernas can also be found, as well.
In the town, Chorio, one can taste the famous island octopus dishes in one of the many ouzerias or fish restaurants there. At night, these venues turn into meeting places where people can to go for a drink and live music.
Being a small island, it is quite easy to move around by bike or even by foot on Lipsi. Despite its size, however, there are many churches and monasteries on the island. Locals even say that it’s possible that every family on Lipsi could have a chapel of their very own.
Sights on the Greek island of Lipsi
Koimisis tis Theokou, a Byzantine church dating back to the 7th or 8th century AD, is home to an icon of the Virgin Mary holding a crucified Jesus. The church is on the bay that dominates the port, surrounded by a lush landscape with natural springs.
The Archaeological Collection of Lipsi, in the main village, showcases clay artifacts and ancient inscriptions from the Classical, Hellenistic and Christian periods.
Most of the beaches of Lipsi are close to the port. The ones that are further away, however, are still close and easy enough to reach by taxi or motorbike.
One of the most beautiful sandy beaches of the island, Kampos — with clear, shallow waters, lots of natural shade and a quiet serenity — is ideal for families with kids.
Platis Gialos, although one of the most well-known beaches, is not as crowded as one might expect. Here it is easy to spot wild ducks cavorting in the sea. The church of Agios Konstantinos, right behind the beach, although not always open, is one of the prettier spots anywhere on the island.
Another must-see place is Hoxlakoura, one of the largest beaches in Lipsi, with white pebbles and crystal water, which is loved by adults and youngsters alike.
For more information see www.lipsi.gov.gr
