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KARAPATHOS ISLAND
The second largest island of the Dodecanese lies between Rhodes and Crete.
It is rather rectangular in shape and its terrain is mountainous.
A mountain range separates the north from the south part of the island, and most of its settlements are to be found on the south coast, which is relatively flatKarpathos' capital and main port is Pigadia or Karpathos on the southeast coast.
Southwest of the capital is Menetes, a picturesque, unspoilt village, the history of which started after the Middle Ages, and further west is Arkassa which has been identified as the site of ancient Arkesia.
Here the ruins of a Christian Basilica of 5th/6th c. A.D. can still be seen.
The mountain villages Aperi, Volada, Othos and Pyles are mountain villages, still off the tourist track, but with tavernas and traditional greek cafes (called cafeneia), where you can enjoy your coffee.