Manolates Village

🏞️ Manolates Village – Samos

A traditional village wrapped in vineyards and forests, with an artistic soul and breathtaking views

📍 Location & Setting

Manolates is located in the northern part of Samos, built at an altitude of approximately 380 meters on the lush slopes of Mount Ambelos. It is situated about 18 km from Samos Town (Vathy) and just 6 km from Tsamadou Beach, accessible via a scenic uphill route surrounded by thick vegetation and vineyards.

🏛️ Administrative Information

Manolates belongs to the Municipality of Eastern Samos and, along with the nearby settlements of Stavrinides and Nenedes, it forms part of the so-called "Six Neighborhoods" region dating back to the Samos Principality period.

🕰️ Historical Overview

The village was likely founded in the 17th century, during the resettlement and reorganization of Samos under Ottoman rule. Its location was chosen for the abundance of fresh water, fertile land, and natural protection provided by the terrain.

📜 During the 19th century, Manolates experienced notable growth due to the cultivation of vineyards and the production of wine, which brought prosperity and allowed trade connections across the Aegean.

🌿 The Village Today

Manolates retains its traditional Samian architecture, with stone-built houses, tiled rooftops, and courtyards filled with jasmine and basil. The village has an artistic atmosphere, home to artists, pottery workshops, small galleries, and cultural events.

Its hiking value is significant: trails starting from the village lead into natural landscapes with panoramic views of the northern Aegean and Ikaria island.

🧱 Sights & Landmarks

• ⛪ Church of Saint John

• 🖼️ Art and pottery workshops

• 🏡 Traditional houses with wooden balconies

• 🌿 Forest embracing the village

• 📸 Stunning views from the upper part of the village toward the sea

🍷 Local Products & Traditions

• Production of sweet Samian wine

• Handcrafted ceramics and pottery

• Traditional soaps and aromatic herbs

• Local taverns serving authentic home-cooked food

🥾 Activities

• Hiking to Stavrinides or Vronta Monastery

• Scenic trails with views over the sea

• Walks through galleries, cafés, courtyards, and squares

• Slow tourism experience with tranquility, culture, and human connection

📍 Distances

• 🚗 18 km from Samos Town

• 🚗 6 km from Tsamadou Beach

• 🚗 8 km from Karlovasi

• 🛫 30 km from Samos Airport

• 🥾 2.5 km from Vronta Monastery

🏷️ Village Highlights

• 🏘️ Traditional mountain village

• 🎨 Artistic and cultural identity

• 🍇 Historic connection with viticulture

• 🧘 Perfect for nature lovers and alternative travelers

• 📷 A source of inspiration for photographers and wanderers