Colourful eastern Greek outpost of Kastelorizo devoid of cars and beaches

If you are looking for a summer destination in Greece, which will allow you to take with you only the absolute necessities, then Kastelorizo may be the ideal place for you.

A pair of slippers or trainers, a few comfortable clothes, swimsuits, sunscreen and a camera are enough to prepare you for the most memorable experience.

Kastelorizo, the smallest of the Dodecanese main islands, is the most eastern island of Greece, barely one nautical mile from the Turkish shores.

It has become more popular during recent years among tourists looking for an isolated place in the Dodecanese, partly thanks to the 1991 Oscar-winning Italian movie Mediterraneo, which is set on the island during the Second World War.

Audiences were thrilled, not only with its beauty, but also with the open-heartedness, laid-back ambience and positive energy that shone through on celluloid.

First impressions are important, and you will be immediately impressed by the attractive harbour front of the main town.

Lined by elegant mansions, cafes, tavernas and shops, closed to any form of vehicle with more than 2 wheels and surrounded by imposing hills that are extremely floodlit at night, the island will captivate you.

Even though it is devoid of beaches, it is possible to swim from the rocks at Agios Stefanos, a 40 minutes walk north of town. The main harbour is unpolluted, so a quick dip from the terrace of Hotel Kastellorizo is also a must.

An wealth of marine life, including monk seals, will interest those keen on snorkelling.

Walkers who hike the zigzag set of stairs to the heights above town, will be rewarded with incredible views of the Turkish Anatolian coast.

Onward paths from here continue towards tranquil monasteries and the ancient citadel of Paleokastro.

Boat trips from the main harbour include the stalactite infested grotto of Perasta, the islet of Rho, and a alluring day trip to Kas in Turkey.