(Piraeus, 201 nautical miles.) This fertile island boasts sandy beaches (some of black volcanic sand) and ample hotel accommodation. Most places of historical and sightseeing interest lie in or close to the main settlement, Kos Town, and can be visited on foot or bicycle (available for hire). Activity centers on Platia tou Platanou, a piazza named after the Plane Tree of Hippocrates, a massive tree (12m (39ft) in circumference), beneath which the philosopher Hippocrates is said to have taught his students. Close by, the 15th-century Castle of the Knights of St John is accessed across a drawbridge. There are also some interesting ancient Greek and Roman archaeological sites. From Kos Town, a road traverses the length of the island all the way to Kefalos, a town on the southwest coast with an old Fortress and a splendid beach. Also of note is Kardamena, a pretty fishing village and well-developed resort with many hotels and beautiful sand beaches.
Kos can be reached by ferry from Piraeus and Rhodes. There are regular flights to Athens and Rhodes.