3 Earthly paradises
Patmos is in itself a place which to most people has an irresistible charm, but even more so it is lucky to be located in a corner of the Aegean Sea that gathers numerous small paradise places within a stone’s throw that are worth visiting in any case! Here we will highlight just 3 of them, among the most famous and most characteristic.
Makronissi is located on the southwestern side of Lipsi, just opposite the port and about 11 miles from Skala of Patmos.
Makronissi is a paradise that has two sides: If the weather is northerly you will approach it from the leeward, southern side, where you will find deep green waters and a complex of caves, hidden passages and vertical cliffs. Conversely, if the weather is southerly, you will approach it from its corresponding leeward side, which is the northern side, where you will see a completely different scene. Here you will find an almost enclosed all-round lagoon. Both sides of Macronissi will leave you speechless and the impressive “tip” is that these two sides communicate with each other by underwater passage! If you are familiar with it you can cross it, although it takes a bit of care as it is of moderate difficulty.
Aspronissia is also near Lipsi and on its eastern side. Of the 3, they are the most distant destination in relation to Patmos and are about 16 miles from the port of Skala. The islets owe their name to the off-white shale formations, which give their colour to the landscape in and out of the crystal clear waters and create a completely exotic and secluded feeling to the visitor.
Tiganakia is located at the southeastern end of Arki and is about 11 miles from Patmos. It is a “closed” shallow sea with thick white sand at the bottom, thanks to which the waters of the area acquire their characteristic colour. The sea here is always calm as it is surrounded by the Arki and islets creating a sheltered area. You can also reach Tiganakia by walking from the harbour of Arki, if you are already on the island.
As we said at the beginning, these destinations are only the most typical ones, which you can visit from Patmos with the tourist boats that make daily excursions. Even better, you can rent a speedboat or even a larger boat, with a captain who will personalize the day’s program according to your wishes and of course, will guide you in the best possible way. It goes without saying that if you have your own boat and once you have been introduced to the main destinations, it is worthwhile to wander around and explore the whole area, as it is full of equally impressive destinations that are waiting to be discovered!
Needless to say, since we are talking about “paradises”, it is ideal to enjoy them when not too crowded. Therefore, if you can avoid the “hot” period of August and plan your holiday for a period that is not considered in peak, you will have the opportunity to experience these places with a completely different character.
