Calypso’s Island

Leipsoi is a chain of small islands, islets, and rocks, which dot the Southeastern Aegean and form the northern part of the Dodecanese group of islands. Leipso or Leipsoi is the name of the largest island in the Leipsoi chain, and it’s located between the bigger Patmos and Leros Islands. It’s a lesser-known destination that we absolutely recommend to you for your next summer holiday trip, especially if you prefer relaxing in a place of pristine nature, away from the crowds of other popular destinations.

Greek mythology has it that during his return trip to Ithaca, Odysseus was shipwrecked here on Nymph Calypso’s island, who refused to let him go for seven years! The island has been inhabited since prehistoric times, yet today only one village exists, built by Ilias, a Cretan guy who arrived there in the second half of the 17th c. and settled on the hill slope where present day Chora is situated. The town expanded across the slope all the way down to the island’s natural harbour.

source: visitgreece.gr

In the southeast Aegean, north of Leros and east of Patmos, a speck of land surrounded by a glittering necklace of 24 islets awaits discovery … Lipsi, mythical Ogygia and the island of goddess Kalypso.

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Popular Attractions

The island is small enough for most people to be able to explore it on foot. The entire chain of islands is part of the Natura 2000 protected areas network. You will enjoy hiking along low hills, planes, and ravines, as the air is filled with the scent of oregano, thyme and savoury shrubs. Source: visitgreece.gr & lipsi-island.com

Panagia tou Harou

There is a sacred icon of the Virgin Mary in this church, reputed to have miraculous powers, depicting Mary holding Jesus crucified.

Aspronisia

Aspronisia are two small white rocky islets located east of Lipsi and are part of the wider complex. (Source)

Tiganakia

Tiganakia beach is perhaps the most beautiful beach on the small island of Arkia, located about 11 kilometers southeast of Patmos. (Source)

Popular Beaches

For those who prefer pebbles, we recommend visiting Khohlakoura, Xirokambos, Monodentri, a beach with large white pebbles, and Papantria. If you love sand, choose Lientou, near Chora, with shallow waters and trees – ideal for those with younger children. Kambos, Platys Gialos and Katsadia are also beaches with shade and clear turquoise waters. Source: lipsi.gov.gr

Khokhlakura

White pebbles everywhere, on the coast and in the sea, reflect the sun and give a wonderful blue-green color to the sea.

Tourkomnima

A wonderful beach with some sand and some pebbles, a few trees and crystal clear waters.

Platis Gialos

A small, beautiful cove with turquoise, shallow waters and tamarisk trees. A particularly popular beach in a fairly sheltered spot.

Papandria

Sand and a little pebble make up this wonderful cove with calm turquoise crystal clear waters.

Monodentri

The only tree you will see on this imposing beach is a cedar that stands alone on the rock.

Lientou

One of the most popular beaches in Lipsi with sand, tamarisk trees and clear shallow waters.