To only associate the Island of Kos with sun, sea and ouzo, would not do it justice, when it has so much more to interest both the individual visitor and groups with certain interests. If it's the nature you're interested in, walking, sport, hiking or it's the legacy from Hippocrates, Kos can accommodate you and make your stay here both memorable and unforgettable! The following information will hopefully help you in getting to know something about the island that you didn't know existed.

Hippocrates Foundation

Located beside the Asclepion, The ancient hospital where Hippocrates carried out his work, is the building of the Hippocratic Foundation of Kos. The building consists of lecture halls, offices and other premises dedicated to medical research which is carried out by Doctors of all nationalities. Awards are also made by the foundation in honour of medical writings and discoveries. During the summer months, seminars are also held in one of the larger hotels outside Kos Town, which are attended by doctors and others from the medical profession, from all over the world.

Thermal Springs

You'll find them in an area out of the main town, along the coastal road, through Psalidi leads to Agios Fokas and known as the "Empros Thermae", about 10km in this direction. They attract many visitors, who either cycle there or join the local bus that runs on a regular basis from the main harbour of Kos Town. The college of Munich evaluated the water here some years ago and considered it to be therapeutic and suitable for those with the following problems: skin diseases, eye disorders, muscle defects, rheumatism and arthritis. The springs consist of a rock pool in the sea, into which is fed, hot water from the seabed creating a feeling of well being , lying in a relaxing warm bath!

Walking

Mid-summer temperatures are not the best in which to walk or ramble, but May and June, September and October are perfect times for those who enjoy walking. With an abundance of routes to take, although none outlined with signs feel free to hike up in the mountains, across countryside as well as walking the coastal plains?you'll be kept busy throughout yourholiday. One walk that's seems to be very popular if the one that takes you from the highest mountain village, Zia right to the top of Mount Dikeos. There is a path and it is said to take approximately 2 hours each way (846m) and leads to the Chapel of Christ, which stands giving spectacular views over all the islands. A walk up to Old Pyli is another, discover the ancient ruins of what used to be a town. Take a look for places worth a visit "Old churches and Monasteries" & "Ancient Sites" .

Cycling

Kos is known to many as the bicycle Island, it has the perfect terrain for getting around easily for most. Whether you are a keen cyclist or haven't ridden a bike for a number of years! The whole of Kos Town and it's coastal resorts just outside the town, Tingaki and Mamari are all ideal for easy cycling as very flat main roads and side roads. One of the most popular routes is either way, depending where you're staying Kos Town, Lambi area to cycle along the coastal route to Tingaki or from Tingaki into Kos Town. The journey covers about 10km?depends on your pace of course as to how long this will take. Taking it easy is the ideal way, stopping for a drink or two is always a good idea. Make sure you wear a hat and protect yourself sensibly from the sun is always a must when cycling.

Sport

Many sports are very popular in Greece especially basketball and football. You should never worry about missing any football game here in Greece as with the latest satalite TV every game is shown. The local teams here in Kos play throughout the winter against themselves as well as other Greek Islands. The schools favourite sport here is basketball for girls and boys alike , at the end of the school year there are tournaments held between all schools. Sports for the tourists visiting the island are few really, but there again you are here to rest and enjoy your holiday. Tennis courts can be found in many of the larger hotels and anyone missing the gym and wants to continue whilst here then there are a few dotted about in Kos Town and other villages.

Watersports

Most beaches have organized watersports including jet skis, paragliding, water ski-ing and windsurfing. The later if most popular in Kamari Bay as well as Mamari on the north coast.

Scuba Diving

Have a look on our special page about this.