Marathokampos

Marathokampos is located southeast of Kerkis in an altitude of about 250 meters. Before it, lays the Ikarian Sea, which according to the mythology, ‘swallowed’ Icarus when he attempted to fly over it wearing waxy wings.

The first inhabitants of Marathokampos were mainly from Chios, Peloponnesus and Karpathos. They builted their homes just below the current location of Marathokampos, in a position called Loukaiika. The subsequent residents though, built their houses much higher, in today’s post, probably because of the annoyance of pirates.
The name Marathokampos is said to have originated from the first inhabitants who came from Marathonisi, ancient town named Gythion, althoughstudies conducted there did not report any relocation from that town to Samos.

Marathokampos was one of the most thriving areas on the island having a large navy and profitable trade activity. In 1834, however, fell into decline and many residents were forced to leave the area.
On the coast, there is the settlement of Ormos Marathokampos. Yet, in the old days and during stormy weather the locals took refuge for their boats and caiques to a location called Makria Punta which is west of Ormos.
In 1902 a law project was approved for the settlement of Ormos, where existed a port, a health department and a custom office. Here gathered the entire trade activity of Marathokampos municipality.

The most feature element of the Marathokampos is that it combines the tradition with the modern comforts. Walking around the picturesque neighborhoods of the village, the sense of an old time captures the eye. Cobblestone streets, stone houses, traditional faucets, small squares and churches compose the identity of the area.
Marathokampos is built on the foothills of Mount Kerketea and around the homonymous gulf. So, it is a magnet for lovers of the mountain and the sea.
You will enjoy your bath and water sports in the beautiful beaches such as Limnionas, Votsalakia and Psili Ammos. Also, from the beach Votsalakia starts a path that leads to the highest peak of the island, Kerketea mountain (altitude 1440 m.). A walking path that sports fans will adore.

Port and seaside settlement is Ormos Marathokampos, located only 4 kilometers away from the village. This is a beautiful area that evolves into a resort. The extensive sandy beach attracts many bathers. From the picturesque fishing harbor of Ormos, boats start the excursion to neighboring islets called Samiopoula and Fournoi. Here you will find tasty food, fresh fish and coffee or soft drinks.
In Marathokampos lies the cave of Pythagoras, where according to tradition the great mathematician of antiquity Pythagoras found shelter while Polycrates was persecuting him. Nearby is another cave in which was built the Church of the Panagia Sarantaskaliotissa with remarkable murals.

In the west side of Marathokampos the visitor will see a cave called Kakoperato which interior is adorned with magnificent stalactites and stalagmites.
Marathokampos, who is also the central seat of the municipality, is known for its tourist infrastructures, which satisfy the requirements of all guests.

 Ormos Marathokampos

Ormos Marathokampos lies on the southwest side of Samos, on the foothills of mountain Kerkis and overlooks into the Aegean Sea. In a distance of 30 km is located the airport and in 40 km is the capital of the island, Vathy.

Ormos Marathokampos has a small graphic traditional port embellished with traditional fishing caiques, where various excursion boats give the opportunity to the visitor to enjoy pristine beaches, small islets, the Holy Island of Patmos and the islands of Fournoi and Ikaria. There is also the possibility for someone to travel to neighboring Turkey in Kusadasi, in order to visit the ancient Ephesus.
The lovers of exploration, using a rented car or motorcycle, can visit various archaeological sites and other attractions.

In the paved beach of Ormos, there are restaurants, cafes, bars and other places for entertainment. For nightly excursions, there are many clubs in very reasonable prices. Additionally, all the small units of accommodation offer their rooms in affordably prices. It is also remarkable that none of the nightclubs in the village use loud music, so this allows the visitor, along with his lunch, coffee or a drink, to enjoy the serenity and beauty of the landscape. During the nighttime, there is no traffic by cars or motorcycles on the coastal road of the village.

Ormos Marathokampos is considered to be the touristic center for all the region of Marathokampos municipality, where the visitor can find a way out, enjoying the picturesque and unspoiled natural environment of a real traditional village.

Beside the beach in the village, within a walking distance there are several famous beaches such as Velanidia, Votsalakia, Psili Ammos, Limnionas and many others. The wider green area is ideal for walks, excursions to the various monasteries and churches of the region or in the cave of Pythagoras and for climbing the highest mountain of the island, Kerkis (altitude of 1450 m.)

Ormos Marathokampos is the best destination for the visitor who wishes to spend the holiday away from the crowded tourist resorts, especially suitable for families with small children. Visit the beautiful fishing village and you will be charmed by the natural environment, the picturesque and the pristine beaches of it.

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