The quiet Greek island of Kastos is home to family-run restaurants serving food grown on the premises. It’s also where sailors drop anchor in cobalt bays to snorkel and explore sea caverns.
The main (only) town is small and picturesque, while the rocky coastline is lined with wild beaches you’ll probably have all to yourself. Don’t miss a sunset cocktail at the windmill bar on the southern edge of the island.
1. Port Kastos
Port Kastos is a gorgeous little harbour that’s ideal for dropping your anchor and taking in the summer vibes. It’s also a popular anchorage for those that are sailing close to the island on their Ionian charter holiday.
With sandy beaches and rocky coves to explore it’s no wonder that it attracts many visitors on their yachts. The village of Kastos has a tiny population with only 80 residents, most of whom are involved in tourism services and fishing.
Despite its small size, there is still a good selection of bars and tavernas around the harbour area. One of our favourites is a little cafe with a huge variety of music, called El.
2. Kalamos
A great place for lunch or dinner. The food here is delicious – seafood pasta, mini-fish meze platters and grilled steaks are the highlights.
A pretty little bar on a hill overlooking the west coast of the island. It’s a bit gimmicky but a sunset cocktail here is hard to beat!
One of the smallest inhabited islands in the Ionian, Kastos (Argalasti) is a true hidden gem. With stunning beaches, peace and quiet, and a traditional way of life, it’s the perfect place to escape the crowds. With less than 50 permanent residents, this is the place to relax and unwind. Bring a good book and enjoy the views!
3. Agios Emilianos
Aghios Emilianos is a charming village that offers visitors a peaceful getaway. The village is known for its beautiful beaches and rich history. It is also a great place to enjoy delicious Greek food.
The village has a number of traditional tavernas that serve a variety of dishes, including moussaka, souvlaki, and tzatziki. The food is prepared using fresh ingredients and has a unique flavor.
Visitors can also visit the ruins of the ancient city of Halieis. The ruins include the theater, agora, and acropolis. The village is also home to many beautiful beaches that offer excellent swimming and sunbathing. It is best to visit the beaches during the summer months.
4. Fokotripa Cave
If you associate beach vacations with calm, measured rest and spectacular natural views, Kastos is a good choice. The beaches here are outside urban areas in a natural setting and some may not be convenient for all categories of travelers.
Facilities ashore are limited but there are a couple of great restaurants & bars – the windmill taverna Mylos is very cool and has an enviable setting, while the El.A cafe & bar has fantastic pizza and is run by Alex who is a keen music fan – catch him on a quiet night to chat about the latest tracks.
There are several idyllic bays suitable for overnight mooring on the olive clad island.
5. Windmill Bar
The Windmill Bar is a western themed bar with copper tin ceilings, exposed beam rafters and etched glass accents. It also serves lunch and dinner with a patio dining area.
It is also a great place to enjoy the sunset. The food here is not very extensive, but it does offer some nice options like crudo and various skewers. This is a great option if you are looking for something quick to eat and drink. They have a good selection of wine and beer too.
6. Museum of Kastos
Known for its pristine beaches and natural beauty, Kastos Island is a popular stop for yachts chartering in the Ionian Sea. Its single village and historic churches offer a rich tapestry of culture. The church of Agios Ioannis Prodromos and Agios Emilianos feature exquisite wall paintings by the renowned Eptanesian painter Spyridon Gazis.
The solitary bays around the island’s rocky west side are ideal for overnight mooring, but you can also dock in Kastos Harbour where there is space for plenty of yachts anchored stern-to. However, the anchorage can become congested during the summer with flotillas boats jostling for space.
It is also worth stopping by the gimmicky but fun Windmill Bar, a few hundred metres south of the harbour. It offers a great sunset drink and the owner is a music fan, so you can expect interesting conversation!