On the north side of Karpathos is the islet of Saria. It is 62nd in size among the rest of Greek islands. Along with Saria central and northern areas of Karpathos belong to the NATURA 2000 network and have been recognized as CORINE Biotopes. It was characterized as “Important bird area in Europe”.
If you are interested in eco-tourism, you should also read the article The rich flora and fauna of Karpathos.
Karpathos is located on the migration route of birds from Europe to Africa. It is proved that Saria is the final stop before Africa. That’s why there are many bird species such as small hawks, wild pigeons, herons, cormorants, partridges and grouse.
Make your reservation at Akropolis Village on time.
In ancient times Saria was united with Nisyros of Karpathos and was separated due to erosion. The canal that was created and separates the two islands today is called “Steno”. It’s 1.5 nautical mile long and 100 meters wide. It is a rocky islet with many sea cliffs, pine forest and caves. The most famous beach on the islet is Palatia. It is an unorganized pebbly beach, with crystal clear turquoise waters. There is also a small canyon that starts from the chapel of Agia Sophia, located in Palatia and reaches up to the church of Agios Zacharias.
There are scattered ancient monuments. On Castellos Hill traces of human presence have been found from the Late Neolithic and Early Bronze Age. It’s considered that this is the ancient Nisyros of Karpathos. On the 5th century it belonged to the Athenian Alliance. There is a medieval village, also called Palatia (6th-9th century) which has most likely been inhabited by either Arab or Saracen pirates. Today, small, one-room houses with a dome are preserved. This type of architecture is found in Syria and Andalusia. In Argos there is a settlement with stone-built ground floor buildings, paddocks and threshing floors. Carpathian farmers lived there. Just outside the settlement you will find the unique horseshoe-shaped, stone-built windmill.
If you are a history lover Karpathos is a picturesque island, faithful to its traditions, full of peculiarities and rich in sightseeing. You will find more information on which places to visit in our article Karpathos Sightseeing.
You may be particularly lucky to meet the rare and most iconic mammal of the Mediterranean, the seal Monachus Monachus, especially if you visit Saria.
How to get in Saria islet
You can go by boat from Diafani. The route takes about 1.5 hours, depending on the swimming stops along the way. Alternatively, you can hire a boat and skipper, so you can plan your own day trip.
And don’t forget to make your reservation at Akropolis Village on time.