Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
windmills and catch views of both coasts as the island narrows before reaching Karystos
Bay.
Karystos Κάρυστος
POP 5130
Set on wide Karystos Bay below Mt Ohi and flanked by two sandy beaches, this low-key
coastal resort is the starting point for treks to Mt Ohi and Dimosari Gorge. The town's
lively Plateia Amalias faces the harbour.
Sights
Karystos, mentioned in Homer's 'Iliad', was a powerful city-state during the Peloponne-
sian Wars. The displays at
Karystos Museum
(admission €2; 9am-3pm Tue-Sun)
range
from tiny neolithic clay lamps to an exhibit of the 6th-century BC
drakospita
(dragon
houses) of Mt Ohi and Styra. The museum sits opposite a 14th-century Venetian castle,
the
Bourtzi
(admission free;
year-round)
.
Tours
South Evia Tours
CRUISE, HIKING
( 22240 26200;
www.eviatravel.gr
; Plateia Amalias)
can help with accommodation and ferry
tickets, and organise excursions to the
drakospita
near Styra, bicycle and kayak rentals,
as well as cruises around the Petali Islands (€35). Owner Nikos and staff can also arrange
transport for hikes to the summit of Mt Ohi and back, and four-hour guided walks
through Dimosari Gorge (€25).
BikeGreece
MOUNTAIN BIKING
( 6944618565;
www.bikegreece.com
)
Find out what mountain bikes are really for with
BikeGreece. Its week-long bicycle tours of the wild south Evian landscape explore the
slopes of Mt Ohi, the Dimosari Gorge, and include beach bonfires and even the occasion-
al village wine tasting. Rates include vehicle support, food and lodging. Semi-expat
James Brown organises the show with a deep appreciation of the local landscape and cul-
ture.
Festivals & Events
