Votsalakia lies in the south west of Samos, thirteen kilometres from Karlovassi. The village stretches along the beach and is framed by the towering Mount Kerkis, over fourteen hundred metres high. Votsalakia is a quiet resort, undisturbed by motorised water sports, where the main activity is relaxing on the beach and swimming in the clear blue waters. It has a good supply of small hotels, apartments and studios, and a range of restaurants and tavernas. The mountain and hills draw many ramblers and hill walkers to the area.
Votsalakia lies in an area of great natural beauty. With a guarantee of summer sunshine, an excellent sandy beach with safe bathing, a range of shops and tavernas satisfying most needs, all to be enjoyed in a relaxed atmosphere, it is no surprise that so many people choose a Votsalakia holiday.
A Votsalakia holiday attracts families and couples who do not necessarily wish for lively evenings. It is also popular with walkers especially those who enjoy rambling in the hills.
The season lasts from April to October with the hot dry summer months being the most popular time to visit Votsalakia. Early and late season are popular times for walkers, when the temperatures are a little lower.
Votsalakia is a relaxed resort that stretches for two kilometres along a stretch of sandy beach on the south west coast of Samos. Its low-rise accommodation nestles under the Kerkis Mountain which attracts many walkers to the area. Votsalakia has a quiet beach equipped with sun beds and umbrellas, and lapped by the clearest of water. The beach slopes gently into the sea providing safe bathing for children and less confident swimmers. There are no noisy motorised water sports to disturb the tranquillity of the bay. Numerous bars and tavernas along the beach supply daylong refreshments as well as evening entertainment.
The long village has many shops providing holiday essentials as well as gifts and souvenirs. Its range of hotels accommodate most budgets and its restaurants and tavernas cater for most tastes.
The Evangelistria Monastery is a stiff walk above the village but is well worth the effort. The views from here are magnificent. Those who would like a better view, and have energy to spare, can continue on up the mountain to a height of over fourteen hundred metres.
Boat and bus excursions are offered to other parts of the island and cycles are available for hire.
A Votsalakia holiday offers a relaxing retreat by the sea, basking in glorious sunshine and the warm hospitality of the local people.
Votsalakia nightlife is fairly low-key reflecting the family nature of the resort. Evenings are spent wandering along the beach enjoying a meal under the stars. The occasional venue remains open late in the evening, but Votsalakia is not a resort that parties until dawn.
Votsalakia has a good number of shops and mini-markets providing essential provisions and holiday memorabilia. The gift shops lining the beach sell the usual obligatory souvenirs including brightly painted ceramics, embroidered linens, leather goods and jewellery.
Votsalakia has numerous restaurants and tavernas along the beach serving a wide variety of food including fast food outlets, traditional tavernas and restaurants serving international cuisine. Fish is obviously an important part of an island’s gastronomy and tavernas provide a wide variety of fish as well as meat dishes. A good way to try traditional food is to order Mezedes, the Greek equivalent of the Spanish tapas, which includes a variety of bite-sized fish, meat and vegetables.
Local wines are pleasant and inexpensive.
Children are always made very welcome in restaurants and their tastes and portion size are usually accommodated.
