Patmos Island, Greece:
There may be more dramatic locales in the world, there may be more
spectacular destinations around the globe, but few places on earth can match the
extraordinary combination of features that draw people to the
island of Patmos. There is one of the best-kept secrets of international
tourism: an island increasingly sought out by sophisticated travelers in search
of a truly restful holiday. If there is a common theme to this island's
attractions, it is that there is a sense of having arrived at a quiet and
beautiful space, respected by all who come ashore. Whatever it is, Patmos has
this special aura.
There, too, on one relatively small plot of land - only some 16 m² - are two
of the most resonant sites of early Christianity: the cave were St. John wrote
the Book of Revelation, and the famous Monastery of St. John. Both sites provide
for one of the most spiritual experiences in visitors' lifetimes, whether they
share the Christian faith or not. The profoundly beautiful traditional
settlement of Chora, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, invites you to wander in its
narrow alleys, among white-washed houses and fabulous vistas.
Reaching Patmos:
For years, sophisticated travelers have been coming to Patmos to enjoy its
fine restaurants, beaches, and quiet Greek island beauty. Patmos, frequently
serving as the private get-away of Greek and foreign VIPs, has been left
untouched by unwarranted modern-day growth and has been protected against mass
tourism. It is this subdued atmosphere that pervades the island and provides for
the most powerful ingredient of its attraction.
Patmos does not have an airport. You may visit the island of Patmos by
boarding an airplane from the Athens International Airport “Eleftherios
Venizelos” to nearby Kos, Leros, or Samos islands, and from there catching a
local boat connection to Patmos, for a total travel time estimate of 3-5 hours.
Daily air and local boat transfers are available during April-October.
Another alternative is boarding a ferry boat from the Port of Pireaus in Athens,
for a total travel time estimate of 7-10 hours. Daily ferry boat transfers from
the Pireaus Port are available during April-October.
Inter-island boat connections from Rhodes, Kos, Kalymnos, Leros, and Samos
provide for yet another option of island hopping, enabling you to combine your
Patmos vacation with other island experiences. Inter-island local boat or ferry
boat daily transfers are available during April-October.
Please note that Rhodes, Kos, and Samos welcome frequent charter flights from
major European cities during the summer.
Reaching Petra Hotel, Grikos Patmos:
Conveniently located in Grikos, a picturesque and serene fishing village away
from the tourist crowds, the Petra Hotel is only a five-minute, 4.5 km or 2
miles, car ride away from the Skala Harbor, a five-minute car ride, 4 km or 1.8
miles, from Chora, the island's capital, and a 70 meter,200 feet, walk from
Grikos Beach. Some of the guests enjoy taking walks from Grikos to various
locations on the island, which is only 13 km or 8 miles long.