PSERIMOS
Pserimos is a small Greek island in the Dodecanese chain, lying close to Kos in front of the coast of Turkey. The port village where the ferries come into is called Avlakia. It has a population of fewer than 100 inhabitants, and the municipality on the nearby island of Kálymnos administers this tiny place! The island exports capers and fish and one of the most popular local dishes is lamb with pasta.
A brief history of Pserimos
The ancient historian, Plinius mentions the island in books and in around the 3rd century AC an inscription was discovered, proving Pserimos’s reliance on the nearby island of Kos and suggesting that these islands have a shared history. Both Kos and Pserimos are part of the Dodecanese archipelago, which was conquered by the Ottoman Empire in the 16th century until the Italians took over in 1912. The island recently became part of modern Greece in 1948.
Things to do around Pserimos
Walking and swimming are the main things to do on this tiny island. For a fantastic sunset stroll, head for a church to the north of the port called the Chapel of Panagia Grafiotisa; it is in a beautiful location. There is another Greek Orthodox church to the south, close to the village. Both churches can be reached by foot, but be sure to take water and food because the island is very isolated and there are no services other than those at the port. There is plenty to explore for diving enthusiasts, including the Thor Star shipwreck, located off the coast of Platy and some other World War II wrecks on the north side of the island. Be aware that there aren’t any companies to organize equipment hire and guides for you; diving centres on Kos or Kalymnos can help you with this. Another small excursion is to the very tiny island of Platy. This island is uninhabited, and the waters are said to be the cleanest in the Dodecanese. There is also a delightful three island tour leaving from nearby Kos, they usually stop at Kalymnos, Platy and Pserimos and often include a BBQ lunch for less than 15 euros per person.
Beaches around Pserimos
The beach by the port is charming; there is a café/restaurant called Anna, which is open for snack and meals all day. There are other beaches along hiking trails, including Glistra, Korakia, Marathonda, Roussa and Trevathia. The most beautiful beach on the island is said to be in the Bay of Vathy.