Kardamena holidays

When it comes to variety, you’ve hit the jackpot from takeaway gyros stands to Mediterranean restaurants and traditional fare. Mama Marina has some of the best Tripadvisor ratings in the area, praised for its home-cooked chips, tender garlic chicken and fish stuffed spaghetti dishes – it’s a great all-rounder for fussy eaters. Star Light Beach Bar offers award-winning meze platters, extensive cocktail menu and child-friendly options. For shots of Ouzo, the local aniseed spirit, head to the Stone Roses Bar. Alternatively, Crossroads Bar is a cosy beachfront number serving herbal coffees alongside pints of Mythos.

During your holiday to Kardamena we recommend trying some authentic Greek food, for starters enjoy pitta bread smothered in a yogurt, garlic and cucumber dip. While, mains come in all shapes and sizes, but an island showstopper is moussaka, this oven-baked dish consists of layers of aubergines, minced lamb, pureed tomato, potato and bechamel sauce. Finish up with some soft cookies dipped in honey and covered in grounded walnuts for the ultimate Greek dessert.

Backed by bustling bars and fancy beach clubs, Kardamena Beach is made up of toe-sinking sands met by azure Aegean Sea. Overflowing with sunloungers and umbrellas, it’s the ultimate spot to recharge your batteries. Those with mini travellers can paddle in safe, shallow waters, but it’s highly recommended to bring sea shoes due to its rocky ocean floor. Meanwhile, snorkelers can revel in its craggy seabed with underwater explorations discovering tropical marine life. For those who wish to stay on top of its calm ripples, there’s an abundance of watersports such as jet skis, banana boats and paragliding. Full of first-class amenities, it’s easy to feed those hungry stomachs with a promenade lined with Greek eats. Changing rooms, toilets and shops are the other must-haves for a memorable day in the sand.

Kardamena is the perfect base to explore all Kos has to offer, with Kos Town 40 minutes down the road, you’re never too far from Greek mythology and timeworn architecture. Meanwhile in the resort itself, there’s a nightlife to rival big-name party spots such as Zante and Turkey, and it’s just a boat ride away.

Aquatic Waterpark: Families rejoice! This thrilling waterpark is a must-visit during your time on the island. Combining plunging kamikazes with rapid free fall slides and multitrack racers, these wild rides won’t disappoint. Too scared to go it alone? Double up and head down the spin bowl or speed down the wave. And who doesn’t love a float down the lazy river? Kick back, relax and bask in those Mediterranean rays. There’s an aqua playground for smaller tots, made up of mini shoots and fountains. Lazy days around the pool are still possible, with a lagoon-style number taking centre stage. When you’re feeling peckish, grab a snack from the onsite cafe or a refreshing ice lolly.

Antimachia Village: Culture vultures can head just 10 minutes away to immerse themselves in the relics of a 20th century medieval castle. Wander through beautifully resorted rooms, before heading to the top for astonishing vistas of Kos. The old working windmills still remain a symbol of the town’s ancient past, as does the 18th century church of Agis Paraskevi. Visit during the month of October when the Greek Carnival takes place, filling the village with singing, dancing and sweet stalls.