The Basics

Quick Facts: Astypalea

Pronunciation	ah-stee-pal-e-ah
Alternate Spelling	Astypalaia
Transportation	Air, ferry, hydrofoil
Main Attractions	Beaches, quiet getaways
Food	Good choices
Accommodations	Good choices

Astypalea Page 1

Astypalea, while in the Dodecanese, is its western most island. It lies nearer to the Cyclades in geography and architecture. It has a land mass of 97 sq. km and 110 km of coast.

The island is shaped like a butterfly and connected by a 105 meter long isthmus at times only 50m wide. The population is about 1100. The highest peak, Vardia, is 482 meters. There is an airport and the back-up port of Aghios Andreas. Astypalea Town (Hora - Kastro) is the capitol and encompasses part of the port Pera Yalos. At its top rests a Venetian Castle or Kastro.

Astypalea is a lovely island that has gently rolling hills, verdant valleys, sheltered coves, nice beaches and a few villages and farms. The island's mascot is Carlos the Pelican. The best beaches are to the east of Astypalea Town and accessible by foot.

Its a good place to really enjoy the summer because it's relatively less accessible and doesn't have huge summer throngs of tourists.

More Astypalea page: 1 | 2 | 3 | 4