Pristine beaches with turquoise waters, ultimate relaxation and tranquility. Lipsi is a small undiscovered paradise in the Aegean.
Lipsi is one of those destinations that stands out for its authenticity and unpretentious beauty. Known from mythology as Ogygia, the island where the goddess Calypso enchanted Odysseus, it is a well-hidden paradise in the Aegean.
Lipsi is the ideal escape for those who want to get far from the crowds and enjoy a tranquil summer. Getting to Lipsi is easy from the nearby islands of Patmos, Leros and Kalymnos. There are many reasons to choose this Dodecanese island for your holidays. We’ve gathered the top five.
Pristine beaches with crystal-clear waters
The beaches on Lipsi truly stand out. Small coves, turquoise waters and a sense of absolute calm set the enchanting scene. Platys Gialos, with its shallow waters, is the island’s most famous beach, Katsadia, with wonderful views toward Leros, is sheltered, while Hohlakoura has aquamarine waters and snow-white pebbles. In fact, Lipsi recorded a national first, as it was recently recognized as the municipality in Greece with the most «untrodden beaches». The island has 23 beaches where every kind of commercial activity is prohibited (umbrellas, sunbeds, refreshment stands).
Absolute relaxation and serenity
Here you will completely forget stress and noise and sink into a world of summer relaxation. With little in the way of nightlife and an unhurried pace, the island is made for true rest. Lipsi is the ideal place to disconnect from daily life and savor moments of serenity by the sea.
An ideal destination for exploration
Despite its small size, Lipsi invites lovely explorations on land and sea. If you’re in the mood for adventure, the island is small and easy to explore on foot. You’ll find plenty of trails inland that, through nature, lead to secluded beaches. From the port of Lipsi you can take a caique excursion to the neighboring uninhabited islets. You’ll encounter exotic scenery at Makronisi, Aspronisi and Tigani.
The picturesque Chora of Lipsi
The island has managed to preserve its traditional character. Chora spreads amphitheatrically around the harbor. In the narrow alleys you’ll see whitewashed houses with blue windows and pause at traditional cafés and tavernas with views of the sea. In Chora you’ll find the island’s Town Hall, as well as the Italian quarter with the holiday homes of Italians who have fallen in love with the island. Crowning a hilltop stands the Church of Saint John the Theologian with its distinctive sky-blue dome and twin bell towers.
Local gastronomy
Gastronomy on Lipsi is rooted in simplicity and quality. Lipsi is famed for its pure, handmade products, crafted with care. The island has a long tradition of cheesemaking, and you’ll also taste fresh fish cooked to traditional recipes. Standouts include spoon sweets made from local fruits such as figs and grapes, and the island’s thyme honey. All of this pairs perfectly with the wonderful views of the sea.
