Mastichari Holidays

Mastichari is a peaceful fishing village on the west coast of Kos. It’s a small, compact place with just 4 streets to get around. The locals pride themselves on the super-fresh fish that goes straight from the harbour to the friendly tavernas, as well as their laid-back, disco-free evenings. And they’re pretty chuffed with the sandy beach, too.

Blue sunbeds and umbrellas dot Mastichari’s long, sandy beach – though there’s more than enough room for laying down towels. The gently-shelving shoreline leads to toasty warm water, where pedalos and catamarans share space with kiteboarders and windsurfers. It’s all very relaxed here, and with café-bars and tavernas on the spot there’s very little legwork required. Unless, of course, you want to move further along the beach to join the naturists.

You can be in the capital, Kos Town, in less than half an hour. According to legend, Hippocrates used to teach medicine under the huge plane tree at the harbour front. And by its side is a Medieval castle built by the Knights Templar. There’s also Roman history round here, with the ruins of a bath and amphitheatre, and a beautifully restored mansion. Meanwhile, the nightlife is right up to date with cosmopolitan bars and clubs.