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Kos

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At just 40km across, this Greek Island in the Aegean Sea may seem small but it is in fact the largest in a group called the Dodecanese Islands. Kos or 'Cos' is located just off the coast of Turkey and boasts 69.5 miles of stunning beaches and the perfect fertile land for growing grape, olive, fig, almond, tomato, corn and wheat crops due to the neighboring island and volcano of Nisyros.

Kos itself has a diverse geological structure with flat beaches on the coast and mountains reaching up to 875m above sea levels such as Oros Dikeos further inland. All of Kos' 40km is adorned with lush green trees, plants and grasses which fill the space between the staggeringly beautiful beaches and quaint villages. At night the streets of the island come alive when people fill the bars and clubs of Kos town and have parties on the beaches, and while the difference between day and night can feel quite stark- the way of life on the island of Kos is laid back and happy as a Greek Island should be.

Whether you're a young couple looking to relax in the sun, an active family with children or someone looking for some culture and history, there's something for everyone on Kos.

Areas

Kos Town

This is where it all happens and a trip to Kos would not be complete without visiting Kos town. Here visitors can sample the unique Greek nightlife, some of the delicacies such as 'Red Cheese' (cheese cooked with red wine), many independent shops and boutiques selling jewelry, pottery and art and of course Kos port.

Asfendiou

This is where all the historical goings-on can be found, most notably Neratzia castle but also several ancient church buildings and occasionally archaeological digs. The town of Asfendiou can be found in the North-eastern part of the island, near Kos town.

The Southern Peninsula

Moni Agiou Theologou is perhaps one of the most beautiful areas of the island. While the sunrises and sunsets here are legendary, it is also the perfect setting for a romantic walk with a partner at dusk, or a hike during the day.

Weather

Kos is typical of an eastern Greek island, with maximum summer temperatures of around 35ºC in July, and minimal rainfall during peak time (10 to 25mm per month). The July heat can prove overwhelming (especially as the minimum temperature is as high as 22ºC). Therefore we recommend that you travel between May and June or August and September.

Average Temperatures

F/C	Jan	Feb	Mar	Apr	May	Jun	Jul	Aug	Sep	Oct	Nov	Dec
F	52	51	55	61	67	74	79	79	74	68	60	54
C	11	11	13	16	19	23	26	26	23	20	16	12

Getting There

By Boat

Kos is very well linked with all of the other destinations which make up the Dodecanese islands and surrounding mainland areas, so getting a boat from these is not a problem.

By Plane

Kos has its own airport towards the western side of the center of the island and this is the most direct way to travel here. From the airport there are several bus companies which will take you closer to your accommodation location.

Getting Around

By Car

There are three main towns offering car rental companies on Kos. These are located in Kefalos, Kos town and Tigaki. Considering the whole island is just 40km across, hiring a car could be the best way to see the whole thing in just one day!

By Bus

Kos is well connected via the buses which operate on the island, with services taking passengers from inland to the beaches and main towns.

By Bicycle

Because Kos is such a small island and very easily navigated, it's recommended that you find an environmentally friendly and less intrusive way to travel such as on foot or by bicycle. That way the roads stay clear, you stay healthy and get to explore the island in great detail! Bicycles can be hired from most of the larger towns on Kos.

Sights & Activities

Lido Water park

Spanning an astounding 75000 square meters, Kos' water park in Mastichari (in the West) is filled with multi-lane slides, pools with wave machines, a lazy river, restaurant, snack bar and water games such as Polo.

Hermes Boating Trips

A Travel Agency named 'Hermes' is responsible for offering visitors to Kos the opportunity to sail along the coast and to nearby island such as Patmos, Kalymnos, Lipsi and Rhodes. Customers are typically given a choice between a relaxing trip to the three nearby islands or an all-day excursion further a field.

Neratzia Castle

This 14th century castle located right on the port of Kos is any keen historian's dream. With a drawbridge, moat and four defense towers this could be the perfect day out for letting the children's minds run wild or to explore with a loved one.

Kefalos and Bubble Beach

One of the most highly acclaimed beaches on the island, Kefalos beach to the South-west of Kos is an idyllic place to bring the family and spend the day on the white sands and in the clear warm waters. Just off shore is the Agios Nikolas monastery, so you're never far from a little history either.

Bubble beach offers Watersports such as snorkeling and jet skiing for around 30 euros each. In the same area you can also paraglide over the beaches of south western Kos.