Pserimos {Greece} - a paradise for sailors & yacht owners
- Christos Maletsikas
- Jul 26
- 4 min read
Updated: 6 days ago
Hidden between Kos and Kalymnos, Pserimos is one of the smallest inhabited islands of the Dodecanese and one of Greece's best-kept secrets. With turquoise waters, quiet beaches, traditional tavernas and almost no road network, Pserimos is the perfect destination for travellers seeking peace, simplicity and genuine island life. The island is also a favourite stop for yachts thanks to its many secluded bays, many of which are accessible only by boat.
I visited Pserimos twice during the summer of 2025—first with my wife aboard a friend's boat, and later with my whole family, including my two children, and a group of friends, arriving by ferry from Kos.
A Brief History
The first known inhabitants of Pserimos were the Carians, followed by Dorian settlers from Argolis. In the early 5th century BC the island was conquered by Queen Artemisia of Halicarnassus before joining the Athenian League after the Persian Wars. During antiquity it formed part of the federation of Kos and Kalymnos. Later it came under Genoese and Knights Hospitaller rule before remaining under the Ottoman Empire from 1522 until 1912. Italian occupation followed until the end of the Second World War, and in 1948 Pserimos officially became part of Greece together with the rest of the Dodecanese.
Pserimos Today - Tavern & Beaches
Life revolves around Avlakia, the island's only village and harbour. Everything is within walking distance, from family-run tavernas and cafés to rooms to let and the main beach. There are no busy roads or nightlife, making the island ideal for relaxation.
The main beach at Avlakia offers calm, shallow, crystal-clear waters, making it ideal for families, couples, and anyone looking for a relaxing swim. Despite being the island's most popular beach, it has retained its authentic charm. There are no beach clubs or loud music—just a peaceful atmosphere with a selection of sunbeds and umbrellas available for visitors who prefer extra comfort. The waterfront tavernas are only a few steps away, making it easy to spend an entire day by the sea.
Beyond the village, numerous secluded coves can only be reached by boat, making Pserimos a paradise for sailors and yacht owners exploring the Dodecanese. Blue Lagoon is one of the island's highlights thanks to its incredibly transparent turquoise waters, while Marathontas offers a peaceful setting away from the crowds, surrounded by untouched natural beauty.
Activities: Hiking & Diving
Pserimos is better suited to exploration walks than organised trekking. Dirt paths connect the harbour with Blue Lagoon and Marathontas. The walk to Blue Lagoon takes around 40 minutes (2km) , while Marathontas is approximately one hour (5km) from the harbour. The Marathontas Gorge, believed to have been formed by a powerful earthquake according to local tradition, is another interesting stop, although visitors should be aware that spiders are common inside the gorge. Carry water, wear proper shoes and avoid hiking during the hottest hours.
One of the island's best dive sites is the wreck of the Thor Star, located off the eastern coast at a depth of around 20 metres. The ship reportedly sought shelter from rough seas before striking the rocks and sinking. Today it is a popular destination for organised diving excursions. Visitors without equipment can easily rent diving gear in Kos or Kalymnos before visiting the island.
The Historic Pottery Factory
Pserimos was once famous for its exceptional clay, considered by locals to be among the finest in the Dodecanese. The old pottery factory at Marathontas, associated with the Mamouzelos family, initially produced roof tiles before switching to bricks that were transported to Kos and Kalymnos. Production reached 10–20 tonnes per month. Although the factory ceased operating in 1963, pottery production on the site dates back to at least 1716. Nearby are remains of an ancient settlement, including marble fragments and monastery foundations.
The Church of Panagia
The Church of Panagia is the island's spiritual heart. Its biggest celebration takes place on 15 August. On the evening of 14 August, the icon is carried from the church to the harbour before traditional music, dancing and a feast begin. Local women prepare chickpeas for all visitors in keeping with the fasting tradition, and celebrations continue until sunrise. A second feast takes place on 21 November for the Presentation of the Virgin Mary.
Fresh seafood is naturally popular, but one of the island's signature dishes is locally raised goat. Manolas is well known among visitors for traditional Greek cuisine served by the sea.
Tips
Accommodation is limited, so booking early during summer is recommended. Pserimos Villas is among the best-known places to stay for visitors wishing to experience the island after the day-trippers leave.
Bring cash as card payments may not always be available.
Ferry schedules can change depending on the weather.
Sun protection is essential, especially when walking outside the village.
Pserimos appeal lies in its simplicity, untouched landscapes and authentic character. Whether you arrive by ferry or by yacht, Pserimos offers a refreshing reminder of what the Greek islands were once like. Staying overnight allows you to enjoy the island's peaceful atmosphere once the excursion boats have departed.
Christos Maletsikas
Blogger & Drone operator
