The village of Manolates is located in the northern part of the island of Samos, 25 kilometers from the capital Vathi, on the road leading to Karlovasi and Kokkari. Manolates is a mountain village, it is located 380 meters above sea level, on the slopes of Mount Ambelos and boasts spectacular views of the Aegean Sea, a rich surrounding vegetation and incredible architecture that makes it unique; reasons why it is a village very popular with guests. In the village of Manolates it is possible to practice mainly naturalistic excursions thanks to the green paths used for long walks in the woods. So if you love trekking in mountainous areas then Manolates is the perfect place to practice them.
What can I find in the village of Manolates?
The village of Manolates has a main street, which in turn has splendid ceramic and jewelery shops where you can make some special purchases for someone special, but not only, also local product stores and gift ideas. There are many taverns inside which you can refresh yourself before making a nice tour of the country. You can get a good Greek dish, or if Greek food is not your forte, you can order a fish dish, which the Greeks know how to cook divinely!
As an alternative to restaurants you can stop or in the cafes to enjoy a Greek coffee or in the artisan shops to taste the wine produced in the lands of Manolates. Wine that over the years has made this village famous thanks to its goodness. We also advise you to get lost in the classic and narrow cobblestone alleys full of traditional houses made of stone embellished with multicolored flowers that give that sense of liveliness and joy.
Thanks to its altitude, the village of Manolates allows the visitor to admire the coasts of Turkey, a splendid view that you cannot miss!
In the village you can also find the parish church dedicated to Zoodochos Pigi, a beautiful sight for lovers of religious works.
What can you admire in the surroundings of the village of Manolates?
The village of Manolates is located near the beautiful pristine beaches of Kokkari, Kambos and Karlovasi. If after or before a nice tour of the village you decide to relax between sun, sea and beach, then you already know where to go. These three beaches are part of the most beautiful and wild of the island of Samos so they will know how to give you the right dose of relaxation. An attraction outside Manolates that you cannot miss is the Monastery of Zoodochos Pigi, located 400 meters high, in an area with very lush vegetation, just east of Vlamari. It was founded in 1756 and completely built in the early 1800s, everything was designed by Monaco Dorotheos. Inside you can admire the wooden iconostasis, an episcopal throne, the columns of ancient Miletus and beautiful frescoes that with their beauty enrich this beautiful monastery even more. All in Byzantine style! After admiring the interior of the church of Zoodochos Pigi try to take a look outside, you will enjoy an incredible panoramic view of the Aegean and the coasts of Turkey.
What is the history of the village of Manolates?
The name Manolates seems to derive from "Manolas" or the first family that settled here in 1794, at least so says E. Stamatiadi.
Initially Manolates was not a village in itself, but was part of the "Exi Geitones" which means "Six neighborhoods". They included Agios Konstandinos, Stavrinides, Ampelos, Valeontades and Margarites. Then in 1912 it became an independent community.
How do I get to the village of Manolates?
The village can be reached in three ways: the first is to reach it by car from the village of Agios Konstandinos, crossing a narrow, slightly winding road. The second way is by bus, which regularly connects the main villages, namely Agios Konstandinos, Kokkari, Vathi and Karlovasi. While the third way, the most tiring one, is to reach Manolates on foot, taking a hiking trail that starts from the village of Vourliotes. Let's say that the path is quite demanding, but it offers truly wonderful panoramas, which you will certainly never forget!
The village of Manolates offers magical views and sensations, the wine, the food, the alleys all recall the classic Greek style which, as you know, never disappoints! Why not stop by?