Calypso Island or Gavdos Island as it’s well known as, is the southernmost island in Greece, located south of Crete. Many believe the island is the southernmost point in all of Europe and has continuously been inhabited since the Neolithic times. Gavdos has indeed played an interesting role throughout many periods of Greek history.
10 INTERESTING FACTS ABOUT CALYPSO ISLAND
1. Originally known as Ogygia, Calypso Island is mentioned in Homer’s Odyssey as the home of the nymph, Calypso, who was the daughter of the Titan, Atlas.
2. Calypso Island/Gavdos is also known for its giant chair, which is located on Tripiti peninsula. This chair was constructed by a team of scientists from all across Europe to symbolise the peaceful nature that characterises Europe’s southernmost point. The location of this 2.50 metres high chair offers brilliant views of the Libyan Sea whilst a compass with its four points helps with your bearings.
3. There is a lot of archaeological evidence showcasing that the Roman Empire took a huge interest in the island. So much so, they actually depleted a lot of the island’s resources!
4. Those visiting the island will get to enjoy the small tavernas and the pleasure of the beautiful beaches of Ai Giannis and Sarakiniko. Sarakiniko, for example, is a beautiful sandy beach with crystal-clear shallow waters close to the tavernas and mini-markets. Ai Giannis is on the more secluded side, where the nearest civilisation lies about a 15 minute walk away.
5. There is an islet to the north west of Gavdos, called Gavdopoula and both Gavdos and Gavdopoula are covered with low-lying shrubs known as phrygana. These are important stops for migrating birds; both Gavdos and Gavdopoula have been designated by BirdLife International as an Important Bird Area (IBA).
6. It takes 1 hour and 15 mins for the scheduled ferry to reach this island from Sfakia on Crete.
7. Gavdos is also a fishing hot spot and although there are few permanent residents living on the island, they do enjoy welcoming visitors from all over the world especially during the summer months.
8. The island is one of the sunniest places in all of Europe!
9. Despite the low levels of rainfall, the landscape is still quite green and provides some absolutely picturesque scenery.
10. The island is home to Mount Vardia, which is just 345 metres high. Gavdos has a rather rugged landscape of coves and rocky bays, alongside its beautiful unique beaches.
BIG BLUE & CALYPSO ISLAND
So, now you know a little more about this beautiful hidden gem, you’ll be pleased to know we have added it to our Crete holiday! (If you haven’t already read our Spotlight On…Crete - take a look to see what you can expect with the Big Blue team.)
The recent addition of the day trip to Calypso Island will provide you with the chance to experience this stunning location. You will swim around Cape Tripiti and you can take in the wonderful deserted and isolated beaches and captivating scenery.
You can find out more information about our Crete trip, alongside the day trip to Calypso Island here. (www.thebigblueswim.com/crete)
We hope to see you there!
21 January 2023
