Visiting Meis in Greece

Opa! A Greek visit...

Meis, also known as Kastellorizo, is a small yet historically rich Greek island just off the coast of Turkey. Once home to over 10,000 residents, today it has a much smaller population, with 400 permanent inhabitants that swells to 1,000 in the summer. The island's name, Megisti, ironically means "biggest," though it is one of Greece’s tiniest islands. Historically, Meis has been a point of contention and cultural blending between Greece and Turkey, making it a unique destination with a diverse past.

Transport

Its so close, you could swim there and many do on special race days between the 2 countries. But that's not really practical for the normal visitor. The following options are very practical if you'd like to spend a day (or more) on this adorable corner of the world.

There are 2 companies that provide ferry services:

Meis Express
Meis Ferry Lines

Both have ferries in the morning, late afternoon and during high, season late night ones. You need to pay, deal with passport registrations, get yourself to Kaş and then back. Its a bit of palaver for a short day out, but there are better ways.

Many Kalkan tour operators resell the tickets from the ferry companies mentioned above. Aside from the tickets, they provide nice transportation there and back, easy payment, registration of your passports, making it a hassle free day. If you wish to take a ferry, I would recommend this method instead of dealing with the ferry companies directly..

A favourite of many is to join Captain Osman Muslu on his boat Selin3. He is the only boat providing shared & exclusive day trips over to Meis. Fantastic food (breakfast, lunch, snacks), blue cave, multiple swimming opportunities and an afternoon/evening spent wandering the island. It's very popular for a very good reason. It's a great full day out at a reasonable cost. If you wish to do this, make sure you reserve far in advance as the boat fills up and finding spots is rare. Get in touch via Whatsapp +90 532 540 70 40

There is yet one more way but due to excessive costs, most visitors don't go for it. You can hire an entire boat for one or multiple day voyage, and visit. The cost is high due to taxes take up nearly 500 Euros; depending on the boat, expect to pay in excess of £1000 per day. If you wish to pursue this option, you'll need to find a suitable boat & captain to take you.

Things to do

A trip to Meis wouldn’t be complete without visiting the famous Blue Cave. As one of the largest sea caves in Europe, it’s a natural wonder that will leave you in awe. The entrance is small and requires you to lie flat in the boat to get inside, but once you’re in, the stunning blue hues created by the sunlight reflecting off the water make it all worthwhile. Kostos, a local boat operator, offers trips to the cave for just €10. The tour takes about an hour, and it's best to go early to avoid the crowds.

The vibrant seafront of Meis is a photographer's dream. Each building along the harbor is painted in bright colors, creating a picturesque Mediterranean scene. Take a leisurely walk along the waterfront, enjoy a coffee at one of the local cafés, and soak in the tranquil atmosphere.

Meis is home to several historic sites, all within easy walking distance of the harbor. The Lycian Tombs, carved into the rock face, offer a glimpse into the island's ancient past. The Ottoman Mosque, located just a short walk from the harbor, is another fascinating historical site. For those up for a bit of a climb, the Red Fort and Saint George Convent provide panoramic views of the island and the surrounding sea.

After exploring the island, cool off with a swim in the crystal-clear waters of Meis. There are several spots along the harbor where you can find free sunbeds and take a dip in the refreshing sea. It’s the perfect way to unwind before heading back to Turkey.
Before catching the ferry back to Kaş, treat yourself to a meal at one of the island's many authentic Greek tavernas. Fresh seafood, especially calamari, is a must-try. The harbor restaurants offer a lovely setting to enjoy your meal while watching the boats come and go.

Tips

The ferry to Meis leaves Kaş at 10 AM and returns at 4 PM. Tickets can be purchased from local Kalkan travel operators. Make sure your Turkish visa allows multiple entries, as you’ll need to re-enter Turkey after your day trip. Ensure that your passport allows entry into the EU.

Since the island is small and easily walkable, there’s no need to bring much with you. A small daypack with water, sunscreen, and a swimsuit should be enough.

If you’re planning to visit the Blue Cave, it’s a good idea to book your spot early, especially during the high season. The boats can fill up quickly, and you won’t want to miss this highlight.

A day trip to Meis is a perfect way to add a touch of Greece to your Turkish holiday. Whether you’re marveling at the Blue Cave, wandering through the colorful streets, or simply relaxing by the water, Meis offers a peaceful and beautiful escape just a short journey from Kaş.

History of Meis

Meis (aka Kastellorizo, Castellorizo or Megisti / Μεγίστη) which happens to be the furthest Greek island from mainland greece and the closest one to us at just 2km away from Kaş.

Turks call it Meis Island, but Greeks call it Megisti and Europeans call it Kastellorosso, which translates to Kızıl Hisar in Turkish. A rose by any other name came to a bit of prominence in 1991 with the release of the movie Mediterraneo. When the film won the best foreign film Oscar in 1992, the island rose in popularity with many wishing to rediscover it. Its been a popular destination ever since.

The written history of Kastellorizo begins with its colonization by the Dorians who named it Megiste. During the Hellenistic Period, the island was controlled by Rhodes, comprising part of the Rhodian Peraia. Rhodian rule continued into the Byzantine Period until 1306 when the island was taken over by the Knights Hospitaller and the supposed namesake of the island.

The island then went through a tumultuous period, falling into the hands of multiple different rulers for the subsequent centuries until being conquered by Ottoman Sultan Suleiman I in 1512. The island remained in the hands of the Ottoman Empire until WWI when it was given to the French and passed under the administration of the Italians with the Treaty of Lausanne.

The Second World War again brought much chaos to the island beginning with a short British occupation in February 1941. Italy regained control for a short while before capitulating to the Allied Forces. From then until the end of the war, the island remained under their occupation. It wasn’t until the 1947 Paris Peace Treaty that Kastellorizo was assigned to Greece.

Up to about 1930’s over 14000 people lived on the island however
emigration, particularly to Australia reduced the population to its present day figure of around 400 today.

Its colourful & beautiful, well worth a visit to this relatively unknown part of the world.