In Kamara, routes to monasteries meet a mountain route with panoramic views of Mykale. When choosing a holiday apartment, it is therefore worth considering the different routes: one starts at the Church of Theotokos and leads to two monasteries; another runs from Vathy through Kamara to the Monastery of Zoodochos Pigi. There is also a historical detour to Chiotika, an old refugee settlement in the surrounding area.
Routes Starting in and Passing Through Kamara
A route following in the footsteps of the Apostle Paul starts at the entrance to the Church of Theotokos in Kamara. It passes through Panaitsa and Chiotika along the hegemonic road towards Vlamari, leading to the monasteries of Agia Zoni and Zoodochos Pigi. The route description thus sets out a clear sequence of stops: from the church entrance through the two settlements to the monasteries. The phrase “in the footsteps of the Apostle Paul” describes the route’s character.
Another route option is the mountain route from Vathy through Kamara to the Monastery of Zoodochos Pigi. It offers panoramic views of Mykale. Unlike the route starting at the Church of Theotokos, which names Agia Zoni and Zoodochos Pigi, this route focuses on the way from Vathy through Kamara and the views along the way. Before making specific plans, check the current condition and accessibility of each route.
A shorter route description leads from Panaitsa in Kamara via the hegemonic stone fountain to Chiotika. The settlement is described as an old refugee settlement built by Samians who returned to the island from Chios. This route therefore connects a distinctive stopping point with a historical destination in the surrounding area. Chiotika can be considered a place in its own right, with a history rooted in the return of the Samians from Chios.
Cultural History on Samos
Samos as a whole offers further cultural and historical highlights. In Pythagoreion, the remains of an ancient fortified harbour with Greek and Roman monuments have been preserved. The archaeological heritage also includes the Tunnel of Eupalinos: dating from the 6th century BC, it runs 1,036 metres through the mountainside and served to supply the ancient city with water. Eupalinos of Megara, son of Naustrofus, is considered its builder. The harbour complex and the tunnel aqueduct illustrate different aspects of ancient infrastructure and engineering.
The archaeological museums also have distinct focuses. The Archaeological Museum of Pythagoreion is in the centre of modern Pythagoreion, on the site of the ancient city of Samos. Its more than 3,000 objects cover the cultural development of the ancient city and its rural surroundings, from the 4th millennium BC to the 7th century AD. The Archaeological Museum of Samos is spread across two sites: a two-storey Neoclassical building dating from 1912 houses finds from the Heraion of Samos; a new building from 1984 displays a collection of significant sculptures from the Archaic period.
The history of the Great Temple of the goddess Hera adds to this picture of the ancient island. Construction began during the reign of Polycrates, around 535 to 522 BC. The planned building measured 55.16 by 108.63 metres and had a peristyle of 155 columns, each intended to be approximately 20 metres high. These figures describe the planned structure and its intended dimensions.
Landscapes and Other Interests on Samos
Travellers planning to explore Samos beyond Kamara will find a range of landscapes and activities. Marked trails on Mount Kerkis cross gorges, chestnut groves and olive orchards, with views stretching from the Ionian coast to the Cyclades islands. On Mount Ambelos, the Vourliotes–Manolates trail is suitable for hiking, mountain biking and off-road excursions. Check local conditions and guidance before planning to take this route.
The Potami area near Karlovasi offers a distinctive landscape, too: small natural waterfalls lie in a green gorge on Kerkis that opens out towards the beach. Samos therefore offers a choice of trails through lush gorges as well as routes with far-reaching views. Each of the places and landscapes mentioned is a destination in its own right within the wider travel destination of Samos.
Another change of theme leads to the Samos Wine Museum. It presents the history of Samos wine and offers tastings. Exhibits include old and traditional tools used in winemaking and barrel production, collector’s bottles and other objects. The range of interests on Samos thus extends from archaeological sites and museums to wine and landscapes, while Kamara offers a specific local focus with its routes and nearby Chiotika.
Discover more destinations: Kokkári, Pandroso, Pefkos, Koumeika, Karlovasi, Avlakia, Mesokampos, Limnionas.
For the wider travel guide: Samos.
