ION CLUB KARPATHOS
The Best of Surfing Elements
WE ARE CLOSED
Location : Karpathos, Greece
Season : 15th May 2024 till 13th october 2024
Opening hours: Daily 9.30 am – 06.00 pm
Deserted beaches, beautiful and typical Greek villages at the foot of the mountains and cozy tavernas ... this is Karpathos. Karpathos is located in the south of the Aegean Sea and south of most of the other Greek islands, more precisely about 150 km southeast of Rhodes. Karpathos has long been a favourite spot for windsurfers from all over Europe, many of whom return every year for the fantastic wind conditions. Opt for a windsurfing holiday in summer, with very little or no risk of being disappointed … windsurfing and Karpathos are one and the same!
The island lies between Rhodes and Crete, which makes the Meltemi, the prevailing local north wind, even stronger as it blows through the mountains.
In July and August, the wind can reach 35-40 knots in the afternoon and is perfect for riders who like sailing with small sail sizes. However, in May-June and September the wind is less intense and more regular, so bringing joy to many windsurfers.
However, there is not only the sea in Karpathos … a mountain range partially forested with pine trees crosses from the north to the center of the island. While there are mountains with an altitude of more than 600 meters in the north, the mountain Kali Limni rises to 1,215 meters and is located in the central area of the island. It is one of the highest mountains in the Dodecanese and is marked by paths and gravel roads.
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A WORD FROM THE MANAGER
Karpathos is for me one of the best destinations for windsurfing in Greece because the wind never stops blowing here. The choice between 2 centers and 3 spots (beginners and advanced), the quality of the Duotone and Fanatic equipment, as well as the brilliant friendly and efficient service offered by the team make all the difference. Moreover, for the more adventurous, mountain biking and climbing are also offered at our center ION CLUB Karpathos, so that you can definitely get your adrenaline fix during your stay.
The authentic Greek island of Karpathos with its crystal clear turquoise waters, multitude of stunning beaches and secluded traditional villages is a gem to discover. Hiking trails are one way to discover the island, and the local taverns offering traditional Karpathian and Greek cuisine will satisfy even the most demanding of culinary tastes. By the way, our on-site restaurant Anemos is also of very high quality and serves ethnic cuisine from around the world. Karpathos is the ideal destination for sports in the mountains, beautiful walks and of course windsurfing with the family, couples, alone or with friends.
Emmanuel Aussedat
Best spots in Karpathos
GUN BAY
Gun Bay is a spot where the wind blows hard, very hard, and where you can let off steam and forget the rest of the world. The flat water area near the shore is perfect for jibing and speed. Those looking for a real challenge can sail from Gun Bay to Paradise Bay, a bay that deserves its name. Here, the wind blows about 5 to 10 knots stronger and the perfectly flat water offers great racing conditions. On the other hand, the further offshore you sail, the more choppy it gets. The wind blows side-offshore, but the spot is well watched by our team.
ATTENTION – INFO FOR KITEBOARDERS
For safety reasons, kitesurfing is not allowed during the opening hours of our 2 windsurfing centers, from 9:30 am to 6:00 pm, in all three sailing areas. However, if you want to kitesurf in Karpathos, it is perfectly tolerated on the other side of the island, a short half hour drive away.
CHICKEN BAY
Chicken Bay, shaped like a horseshoe and bordered by a fairly short sandy beach, offers ideal conditions for beginners and intermediate windsurfers, but also for freestylers, thanks to its 100 meters of shallow water. In Chicken Bay, the wind also blows from land, but with a lower force of about 10 knots.
DEVIL’S BAY
This is certainly the windiest area of the three bays. One sails here with small sails, between 3.5 and 4.2 m², and a board that is preferably not too big, between 75 and 85 liters. Only the most experienced windsurfers sail here. To the windward side of the bay, i.e. towards Gun Bay, the water is less choppy and the spot becomes a very good place to perfect your jibes, your fast turns and all of those unimaginable freestyle tricks. Further offshore, big chops and even swell are formed by the very strong wind … it’s time to perform your best jumps and loops with very nice ramps. Karpathos is without a doubt one of the best windsurfing spots in Greece and Europe for freeriders and freestylers.
BEST PERIODS
May for relaxed wind, beginner or foiling, empty bays, enjoying mountain biking
June for the wind getting stronger, long day light
July and August: for the strong and the guarantied wind, energy full atmosphere in the Club
September: good wind, warm water, more biking and discovery possible
October: for an easy wind, foiling, beautiful biking, relaxing island
WIND
The meltemi is a summer wind that blows in Greece and the Aegean Sea from May to October, accelerating in July and August. Due to the configuration of the hills and mountains of Karpathos, the wind becomes stronger than elsewhere in Greece, which explains its sustained strength and regular presence in Devil's Bay (4 to 8 beaufort). In Chicken Bay which is located more on the side of this wind channel, the wind blows with a little less intensity, 5 to 10 knots less. The wind comes from the northwest and blows offshore from the left. Sometimes in the morning in Karpathos (especially during the summer), the wind is weak or even nil, so it is possible to take a stand up paddle to have fun on the water.
WAVES
Bump & Jump conditions in Gun Bay, no shorebreak, chop up to 1 meter in strong wind at about 500 meters offshore. Great for jumping, but not for surfing.
Flat water in Chicken Bay and Devil's Bay.
CURRENT WEATHER
HOW TO GET THERE ?
From Karpathos airport
Karpathos has a fairly large airport which offers direct flights to some European cities, but not to France (via Athens, Germany or Austria to fly from France). ION CLUB Karpathos is located only 500m from the airport. As soon as you leave the airport, take the first right and follow our sign.
The port is located about 12km from the center of ION CLUB Karpathos, and is in the main town of the island, Pigadia. The island is connected by ferry to Athens, Crete and the island of Rhodes. If you arrive by boat, just follow the sign to the airport and turn left just before the airport. The signs will show you the rest of the way, it's very simple.
Karpathos 857 00, Greece
WHAT TO DO AROUND KARPATHOS?
CYCLING TO EXPLORE KARPATHOS
Karpathos is a mountainous island surrounded by the beautiful translucent waters of the South Aegean Sea. The vegetation is pine forests and all kinds of aromatic herbs and bushes with amazing scents of sage, oregano and thyme. The northern sector of the island is a protected area because some species of flora and fauna, both on land and in the sea, are unique to Karpathos. The island is 50 km long and 11 km wide. Kali Limni is the highest mountain at an altitude of 1215m. It is the ideal place for mountain biking and our center ION CLUB Karpathos offers bike rental. You can also participate in a guided tour with our experienced and qualified instructor.
CLIMBING / SCUBA DIVING / TRAIL / YOGA
Karpathos is also becoming a well known climbing destination. The contrast of the irregular cliffs overhanging the waters is breathtaking. We offer guided climbing trips for climbers of all levels. There are different locations covering several routes of climbing difficulty, which means they are already prepared with bolts and fixing points at the top. Most of the rocks are made of limestone, which allows for a smoother climb.
The island has a vast network of ancient paths used for communication before the construction of any roads. Most of them are well-marked and can be discovered while hiking.
Moreover, the crystal clear waters of the Aegean Sea offer excellent conditions for scuba diving and snorkelling. Guided dives are organized by specialized centers in the main town of Pigadia.
For those who wish to exercise in a more serene setting, we offer daily yoga classes on the beach right in front of our center.
VILLAGES TO STROLL THROUGH
The village of Olympos, in the north of the island, is often described as a living museum and is a must see. In total, there are 11 small towns all over the island of Karpathos, each with its own characteristics. Moreover, the incredibly numerous beaches will delight you, there are more than you can visit in one stay.
Also, the uninhabited island of Saria, north of Karpathos, is an ideal place to take a boat trip and tour around. Here, the ruins of one of the four main ancient villages of Karpathos are visible and worth seeing, as well as the underwater caves and the beautiful beaches all around.
Finally, Kasos, an island of about 300 inhabitants located south of Karpathos, is worth visiting during a day trip.
WE ARE HERE TO HELP
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FAQ
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Center Karpathos
7/7 days, 9.30 - 18.00
+30 6989 8051 42
karpathos@ion-club.net
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International Bookings
Monday to Friday, 09.30 - 14.00
+49(881) 9254960
A story of pioneer since 1985
YEARS EXPERIENCE
Destinations
CENTERS
Sports
YEARS EXPERIENCE
Destinations
CENTERS
SPORTS
The story of the ION CLUB tells of people who have turned their passion for windsurfing and kitesurfing into a profession. Since its founding in 1985, customer orientation, team spirit, innovation and professionalism have been the top priorities of our corporate philosophy.
The ION CLUB / Club Mistral has gained a lot of experience in the 38 years of its existence and has developed more and more into a company that focuses on communicating with guests and fulfilling their needs and wishes.
With 17 water sports schools worldwide, we are one of the leading companies in this field. ION CLUB has a network of international partners in different countries. We strive to be international and multicultural and express this through the selection of our employees, who currently come from 24 different countries.
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
Courses
IS WINDSURFING ACCESSIBLE TO EVERYONE ?
Yes, like all sports, you have to be in good shape. Children must be a minimum of 12 years old in order to take part.
HOW MANY LESSONS DO I NEED TO LEARN WINDSURFING (TOTAL BEGINNER)?
On average 12 hours.
WHAT DO I NEED TO BRING FOR MY KITE / WINDSURF / WINGFOIL LESSONS?
Included in the course: wetsuit, harness, leash, vest and helmet.
WHAT LANGUAGES DO YOUR INSTRUCTORS SPEAK?
English, French, German, Spanish, Czech, Russian, Italian and Slovak.
WHAT HAPPENS IF I PAY FOR THE LESSON IN ADVANCE BUT THERE IS NO WIND?
At the time of your departure, the center will take stock of the situation and you will be issued with an ION CLUB credit note corresponding to the number of hours not taken, valid for all ION CLUB destinations for 24 months.
CENTRE
IS IT POSSIBLE TO PAY BY CARD?
Yes
CAN WE WITHDRAW MONEY?
Yes, at the airport 5 minutes by car and in Pigadia 20 minutes by car from the ION CLUB.
Is there WIFI?
Yes
WHAT WINDLESS ACTIVITIES DO YOU PROPOSE ?
SUP, mountain biking, electric biking, racing bike, climbing, yoga (paid activities).
DO YOU SUPERVISE THE CHILDREN ?
No.
IS THERE FOOD AND DRINK AVAILABLE NEAR THE CENTER?
Yes.
IS THERE A SHUTTLE SERVICE FROM THE HOTELS TO THE CLUB?
ION CLUB does not organize a hotel – center shuttle. However, you can ask your hotel for information..
RENTAL
DO I NEED TO RESERVE EQUIPMENT IN ADVANCE?
It is recommended.
DO I NEED INSURANCE FOR THE EQUIPMENT?
It is recommended.
WHAT DOES A RENTAL INCLUDE?
Complete equipment + wetsuit, harness, leash, helmet, vest.
DO I NEED TO BRING MY OWN WETSUIT AND HARNESS?
It is recommended if you rent your equipment.
CAN I STORE MY OWN EQUIPMENT AT YOUR CENTER?
No.
CAN I RENT EQUIPMENT AND GO TO ANOTHER PLACE?
No.
WHAT HAPPENS IF I PAY THE RENTAL IN ADVANCE BUT THERE IS NO WIND?
You have the possibility to go on a guided mountain bike ride
DO YOU HAVE A LIFEBOAT?
Yes, a safety boat at both centers (Gun Bay and Chicken Bay), plus the possibility of GPS.
SPOT
WHAT IS THE BEST TIME OF THE YEAR TO WINDSURF in Karpathos?
Conditions are good from May to September. The best time is July-August.
WHERE CAN I CHECK THE WIND CONDITIONS?
On the Windguru website.
DO I NEED BOOTIES ON THE SPOT?
No
WHAT THICKNESS OF SUIT IS RECOMMENDED?
3/2mm or 4/3mm wetsuit in May to June, then shorty or 3/2mm
HOW FAR IS THE DISTANCE BETWEEN THE 2 ION CLUB SPOTS (GUNBAY AND CHICKEN BAY) ?
The two bays are about 800 meters away from each other. You can walk along the coast from one bay to the other, a 5 to 10 minute walk, depending on how many pictures you take!
EQUIPMENT
WHAT DOES THE EQUIPMENT BREAKAGE INSURANCE COVER ?
Conditions are good all year around for wind. From November to March for waves, and April to October for flat water.
CAN I LEAVE MY PERSONAL BELONGINGS AT THE CENTER ALL DAY?
Yes, lockers are available.