The southernmost point of Europe is in Greece, specifically on the island of Gavdos, on the inhabited part of the island, called Vatsiana. Thanks to its natural beauty, tranquility and turquoise waters, it is a popular destination.
The island is located 48km south of Chora Sfakion (Chania – Crete) and it covers an area of 29 square kilometers. Its capital is Kastri. The island consists of the following settlements: Ambelos, Vatsiana, Gavdopoula and Fokia. The permanent residents are fewer than 50 people. However, in the summer, the total number of people on the island can exceed 3,500, most of whom are campers. The tourist services on the island are rudimentary.
Gavdos received various names during different historical periods, which testifies that it has been continuously inhabited since Neolithic times and the Bronze Age. It has been identified with Ogygia, the island mentioned in Homer ‘s Odyssey , as the home of the nymph Calypso, who held Odysseus captive for seven years, wanting to marry him. Archaeological evidence showed that the Roman Empire was active on the island. In addition, Gavdos, under the name of “Cauda”, is mentioned in the Bible’s New Testament, when Apostle Paul, during his voyage to Rome, encountered a storm which made his ship pass by the leeward side of the island.
An attraction of the island is the giant chair located in Trypiti; it was erected by a group of European scientists in order to symbolize the peaceful nature that characterizes this southernmost point of Europe. The chair is placed on a rock 2.50m high and on a compass with the four points of the horizon. On the back of the chair one can read the instructions “Smile, Relax”, which encourage visitors to enjoy the simplicity and beauty of the island’s natural landscape.
Gavdos is an island that has become synonymous with free camping, while nudism is also allowed. The most impressive beach of the island is Sarakiniko, which is located very close to the port and its waters are crystal clear. The most famous beach of Gavdos, though, is the one of Ai Giannis, which, according to the Discovery Channel, has been voted as the second most beautiful beach in the world. If you are willing to leave the center of the island, you can explore other unspoilt places and hard-to-reach beaches. Lavrakas, Pyrgos and Potamos are some of the numerous small sandy beaches you can visit. Korfos is an excellent beach, with pebbles and crystal clear waters.
In the north west of Gavdos, there is an islet called Gavdopoula ; both are important stops for migrating birds. As for the access to the island, ferries connect the port of Karave with those of Paleochora , Sougia , Agia Roumeli , Loutro and Hóra Sfakíon. Today, despite its isolation and the limited tourist infrastructure, Gavdos is a gem, unique in Southern Europe and Greece.
