Lipsi Greek Island: An Oasis of Serenity, known for its tranquil nature. Your No Swimming Pool Holiday Destination Guide To Lipsi Island in Greece. The phenomenally gorgeous & idyllic Lipsi Greek Island is promoting a “no swimming pool holiday” to be more sustainable and eliminate water waste! So, how do you get there, where do you stay and what is there to do? This post will answer all of your questions & provide a ton of links and ideas so you don’t have to do any work.
Nestled in the heart of the Dodecanese archipelago Lipsi Island, Greece offers a unique and tranquil escape for those seeking a vacation away from the usual hustle and bustle of modern life. While many travellers often opt for accommodations with swimming pools, Lipsi Island presents an alternative – a holiday that revolves around the island’s natural beauty, warm hospitality, and authentic experiences.
So, if you’re seeking a break from the ordinary and a chance to reconnect with nature and tradition, Lipsi is your ideal “No Swimming Pool Holiday” destination. Come and experience the beauty of simplicity on this serene Greek island.
Join us on a Lipsi Travel Guide blog journey to discover why Lipsi Island Holidays are the perfect destination for a “No Swimming Pool Holiday.”
Things To Do On Lipsi, Greek Island
Embrace the Crystal Clear Waters
Lipsi Island boasts some of the most pristine and azure waters in the Aegean Sea. Instead of a chlorinated swimming pool, you’ll have the opportunity to swim, snorkel, and dive in the clear and inviting waters of the island’s numerous beaches and coves. Enjoy the feeling of sand between your toes and the gentle waves lapping at the shore as you bask in the sun’s warm embrace.
Take one of the small boats at the port that visit the little eastern islets of Aspronisia. The tall shale rocks, combined with turquoise waters and smooth pebble beaches, create a uniquely romantic setting.
Explore Secluded Lipsi Beaches
One of the joys of Lipsi Island is discovering hidden gems along its coastline. From Platis Gialos to Katsadia, the island offers a range of secluded beaches accessible by foot, bicycle, or even a short boat ride. These natural wonders provide a sense of seclusion and tranquillity that no swimming pool can replicate.
Lipsi Island is known for its serene and secluded beaches, offering a peaceful escape from the crowds. Here are some secluded beaches on Lipsi Island where you can enjoy the tranquillity and natural beauty of Lipsi Island’s hidden beaches:
1. Kambos Beach: Located on the southeast coast of the island, Kambos Beach is a tranquil and relatively secluded spot with crystal-clear waters. The beach is surrounded by low cliffs and offers a sense of privacy, making it an excellent place for relaxation and swimming.
2. Platis Gialos Beach: Platis Gialos is a hidden gem accessible by boat or a short hike from Lipsi Town. This beach is known for its golden sands, shallow waters, and the feeling of seclusion it provides. There are no amenities here, so be sure to bring supplies for your visit.
3. Monodendri Beach: Monodendri is a picturesque beach located on the northern side of Lipsi Island. It’s a quiet and remote spot with pebbly shores and clear waters. Due to its remote location, you’re likely to find peace and solitude here.
4. Hohlakoura Beach: Hohlakoura Beach is a small, secluded cove on the west coast of the island. Accessible only by a walking trail, this hidden gem is perfect for those seeking a private and unspoiled beach experience.
5. Lientou Beach: Lientou Beach is another secluded spot on Lipsi Island. It’s a beautiful pebble beach located on the eastern side of the island, surrounded by rocky formations and lush greenery. The lack of crowds makes it an ideal place for a quiet day by the sea.
6. Kanouli Beach: Kanouli Beach is a hidden treasure on the southern part of Lipsi Island. It’s a remote and unspoiled beach with clear waters and a peaceful atmosphere. To reach Kanouli Beach, you might need to hike or use a boat.
Savour Local Cuisine
The island’s authentic Greek cuisine is a highlight of any Lipsi Island vacation. Dine at traditional tavernas and savour dishes made from locally sourced ingredients, including freshly caught seafood, delicious olives and mouthwatering cheeses. Enjoy your meals al fresco, with the sea breeze as your companion.
Alternatively, you could participate in a Traditional Cooking Class. Immerse yourself in the local culture by joining a cooking class. Learn how to prepare traditional Greek dishes like moussaka, tzatziki or dolmades from friendly locals. It’s a hands-on way to experience the island’s culinary traditions and savour the flavours of Lipsi.
There is a winery you can visit. Opened in 2010 and made mainly from the local Fokiano grape variety.
At the local dairy, you can try some goat’s cheese and Italian mozzarella made with milk from cows and buffalos. Their signature cheeses, including spicy goat’s cheese with peppers, is delicious.
Experience Island Traditions
Lipsi Island is deeply rooted in traditions and culture. Attend local festivals, such as the famous “Panagia Harou” festival, to witness traditional music, dance, and rituals. Engage with friendly locals who are eager to share their island’s history and customs with you.
Check if there are any Greek music nights or traditional dance performances happening during your stay. These events often take place in local tavernas and provide a fantastic opportunity to witness and even participate in traditional Greek music and dance. It’s a lively and memorable cultural experience that will leave you with lasting memories of your time on Lipsi Island.
Notable festivals and celebrations that commonly take place on Lipsi Island:
- Panagia tou Harou Festival (Virgin Mary of the Akathist Hymn): Date: 23rd August
- Easter Celebrations: Dates: April (varying, based on the Orthodox Easter). Expect midnight church services, candlelit processions, and communal feasts. The island’s small community comes together to mark this religious occasion.
- Saint John: Date: June 24th. Some locals celebrate Agios Ioannis Klidonas (Saint John). The custom of Klidonas is revived in many Greek islands where fires are lit in the squares and people jump over them.
- The Wine Festival takes place several times a year, the main one being in August.
- Transfiguration of the Saviour: Date: August 6, celebrated in the bay of Christos
- The Domitian of the Virgin Mary: Date: August 15.
Visit the island’s museum; Nikiforio Museum, in the centre of the town. Find objects of archaeological value, such as marble capitals (kionokrana) (4th century BC), burial artefacts such as lamps, tear-collecting cups (dakryhooi) and other pottery, old books, folk costumes and household utensils.
Hiking and Nature Exploration
For nature enthusiasts, Lipsi Island offers a range of hiking trails that wind through olive groves, hillsides, and coastal paths. Explore the island’s unique flora and fauna, and be rewarded with breathtaking panoramic views of the Aegean Sea.
Visit the Monastery of Panagia Harou. This historic monastery is a must-visit attraction on Lipsi Island. It’s perched on a hill overlooking the island and offers stunning panoramic views of the surrounding sea and neighbouring islands. Inside the monastery, you can admire beautiful Byzantine frescoes, light a candle, and soak in the peaceful atmosphere.
Explore the Caves of Aspronissi. Close to Lipsi Island, is home to several intriguing sea caves that you can explore by boat or kayak. The most famous is the Cave of Katsadia, known for its crystal-clear waters and unique rock formations. Exploring these caves is a thrilling adventure and a great way to appreciate the island’s natural beauty.
Take a scenic hike to the old windmills of Aravi. These charming windmills, no longer in operation, are located on a hill and offer breathtaking views of Lipsi and the surrounding islands. The hike is relatively easy and rewards you with a unique perspective of the island’s landscape.
Where Is Leipsoi Island & How Do You Get There?
Lipsi Greek Island is closer to Turkey than mainland Greece. South of Samos and to the north of Leros in Greece. There is no airport but it is well serviced with ferries passing between Patmos and Leros and on the main route for ferries from Piraeus.
Catch The Lipsi Island Ferry: Fly To Greece
Search for flights to Athens Here
Click here to search for flights to Rhodes
Ferries to Lipsi
- Athens to Lipsi – 8 to 9 hours.
- Rhodes to Lipsi Island – 6 to 8 hours.
- Patmos to Lipsi Island usually takes around 1 to 1.5 hours, depending on the ferry service and route.
- Leros to Lipsi Island typically takes around 20 to 30 minutes
- Kalymnos to Lipsi Island typically takes around 30 to 45 minutes
- Samos to Lipsi Island can take around 1.5 to 2.5 hours.
Catch the ferry from Turkey
Click here to search for flights to Bodrum
- Bodrum to Lipsi Island – 2 to 3 hours.
See the map below for locations mentioned above. Lipsi Island is in brown.
Lipsi Island Vacations Have Something For All Budgets: Where Can You Stay?
What I love about the Greek Islands is that there’s something for everyone and for every budget. From hostels to luxury retreats, and everything in between, the Greek islands cater for everyone and every taste. So if you’re a romantic couple, a family with teens and small kids or a mixed-generation family travelling together, the Greek Islands tick all the boxes.
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Self-Catering Budget Accommodation
Self-Catering Mid-Range Accommodation
Self-Catering Luxury Accommodation
Hotel Budget Accommodation
Want to Find Your Own Accommodation?
Use this interactive map to search for your own accommodation on Lipsi Greek Island.
How To Get Around Lipsi
Getting around the small island of Lipsi is relatively easy. There are taxis, buses, bicycles and mopeds that you can rent. You can also hire a car.
Click here to see how much car rental in Lipsi might cost
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Other Posts From Greece
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