Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
SAMOS ΣΑΜΟΣ
POP 32,820
Lying seductively just off the Turkish coast, semitropical Samos is one of the northeast-
ern Aegean Islands' best-known destinations. Yet beyond the low-key resorts and the
lively capital, Vathy, there are numerous off-the-beaten-track beaches and quiet spots in
the cool, forested inland mountains, where traditional life continues.
Famous for its sweet local wine, Samos is also historically significant. It was the le-
gendary birthplace of Hera, and the sprawling ruins of her ancient sanctuary, the Ireon,
are impressive. Both the great mathematician Pythagoras and the hedonistic father of
atomic theory, the 4th-century BC philosopher Epicurus, were born here. Samos' sci-
entific genius is also affirmed by the astonishing Evpalinos Tunnel (524 BC), a spectacu-
lar feat of ancient engineering that stretches for 1034m deep underground.
Getting There & Away
AIR
Samos' airport is 4km west of Pythagorio. There are no airline offices on Samos. Contact
the following airlines, all of which serve Samos, or any local travel agency.
Aegean Airlines
(
www.aegeanair.com
)
Olympic Air
(
www.olympicair.com
)
