Platanos of Samos

🏞️ Platanos – The Balcony of the Aegean

📍 Location & Access

Platanos is a mountainous village located on the western slopes of Mount Ampelos (also known as Karvounis), at an altitude of 530 meters.
It is situated:

• 12 km from Karlovasi

• 25 km from Pythagorio

• 38 km from Samos Town
  Access is via an asphalt road with curves, especially in the final 2.5 kilometers.

👥 Population & Administration

According to the 2021 census, Platanos has 340 residents.
It is part of the Karlovasi Municipal Unit in the Municipality of Western Samos.

🏘️ Architecture & Landmarks

• Village square: At the heart of the village lies a square with centuries-old plane trees and a public fountain from the 17th century, renovated in 1837.

• Church of Saint George: Originally built in 1850, it was completely rebuilt in 1950.

• Primary school: Built in the late 19th century by Archimandrite Damianos, later restored by the architect Kyriakos Krokos.

🌿 Nature & View

Platanos offers a panoramic view stretching from Mount Kerkis and its surrounding villages, to the southwest coast of Samos, Karlovasi, the Fourni islands, the Dodecanese, and on clear days, even Chios.
Despite wildfires in recent years, the village remains surrounded by pine forests and extensive vineyards.

🍇 Economy & Local Products

The local economy is centered around agriculture, especially viticulture and beekeeping.
Platanos produces exceptional wines and honey.
There are also a few taverns and gift shops that cater to the village’s modest tourism.

🎭 Culture & Traditions

Platanos keeps its traditions alive with events such as the annual celebration of the Klidonas custom, held in the village square.
The community is vibrant, with cultural associations organizing various events throughout the year.

🚶‍♂️ Activities & Routes

• Hiking: Dirt roads from the village lead into the island’s interior and toward Mount Ampelos.

• Exploration: Following the paved road northwest, visitors can reach the villages of Agioi Theodoroi and Kontakaiika.

Platanos combines traditional architecture, lush nature, and authentic Samian hospitality, offering visitors a unique and unforgettable experience.