Local Tip: EL GRECO is a fish taverna in scenic Panteli that’s housed in a repurposed stone mansion. Try octopus carpaccio, Leros salad and fresh fish pasta dishes. Sweets like spoon sweets, sfingos with syrup and patsavouropita are also a hit.
Mussolini’s military barracks, mental hospitals and refugee camp were once the main attractions on this island. Now, it’s all about the beaches and tavernas.
1. Agia Marina
Agia Marina is one of Leros main settlements along with Panteli and Platanos. Its beautiful port, sandy beach and neo-classical buildings with Dodecanese aura make it very attractive. The village is also famous for its folklore museum housed in a traditional Cretan house where visitors can learn about everyday objects from the area’s families.
A short drive west of the village is the remarkable Water Cave of Nerospilia where you can see stunning stalactites. Another highlight is the protected island of Agioi Theodori that juts out of the sea next to the beach.
The beach is popular among families and has a lot of cafes, restaurants and tavernas. It is a good spot for wind surfing, jet ski and other water sports. The resort also has several accommodation options including the lovely Folia Apartments that offer a spacious environment and stunning view.
2. Panteli
Panteli is one of the most picturesque parts of the island and the most popular resort for both locals and tourists. It is located within the homonymous bay and close to Platanos and Agia Marina. It is a small fishing village with genuine island character. Old houses, fishing boats and fish taverns compose an idyllic picture in front of the deep blue sea.
The village offers some of the best restaurants in Leros, such as Psaropoula, Zorbas, Patimenos and Pyrofani. They offer delicious meals at very fair prices. The atmosphere is so relaxing and the service excellent. Try some ouzo with mezes and enjoy the view to the sea. You can also walk to the castle that is above the village.
3. Xerokambos
The main region of Xerokambos is located east of Cape Trahilos, close to the picturesque church of Saint Nicholas with its blue dome. It is here that you’ll find the majority of local accommodations and taverns. Its beaches start with Gerontolakkos or Agios Nikolaos and then extend northeast through a collection of small coves. There’s a narrow beach called Argilos with argillaceous rocks and then Vourlia with its golden sand.
There are a number of rocky beaches here that offer truly unspoilt, crowd-free sea and turquoise waters. Argilos beach is particularly worth checking out as it has clay which is great for skin-softening mud baths! The area offers a wide range of accommodation including holiday homes and apartments. A handful of tavernas are also scattered around the area.
4. Mplefoutis
Located above the port of Lakki, this charming church with romantic views is a popular spot for couples celebrating weddings and baptisms. It is built on the ruins of an ancient temple.
Being a sea-faring country, Leros has a tradition of delicious fish dishes. Its waters are incredibly rich in a variety of different species, offering the local housewife a lot of possibilities to create unique recipes.
From grilled octopus to fried cuttlefish to fresh clams paired with spinach and feta cheese, the island’s cuisine offers plenty of mouth-watering dishes. In addition, you can also taste a wide range of meat dishes, especially pork, lamb and beef. Moreover, Leros is famous for its traditional (nisiotika) music and has many composers. During your stay, don’t miss the chance to listen to some of them!
5. Lakki
The Lakki village is a beautiful settlement and the main port of Leros. It consists of beautiful neoclassical buildings that are located right by the sea and preserve the cultural heritage of the island.
It is worth visiting taverns that are frequented by local people, as the menu usually includes dishes without any changes made to please tourists. In addition, the service is usually a little slower, but it is worth it to try some of the best dishes in Lakki.
Mylos Fish Restaurant & Terrace Bar is an impressive family fish tavern that serves seafood and grilled specialties. Its wine list is very extensive with 120 labels and a hidden stash that brings the total number to 200, including an excellent selection of Old World wines.