The island of Gavdos, located 70 kilometres off the southern coast of Crete, is the southernmost inhabited place in Europe. It is exactly 32 nautical miles from Paleochora, 22 from Chora Sfakion and 170 from Tobruk, Libya. It is a small island, just 30 square kilometers triangular in shape, with a maximum length of 10 km and a width of 5 km.
Few residents live on the island throughout the year and the infrastructure for tourists is very basic. According to the 2011 census, Gavdos has 152 permanent residents. In summer, the total population reaches 3500, most of whom are campers. The port of Gavdos is Karave. Its capital vis Kastri, while the southernmost inhabited village is Vatsiana with 31 residents (2011). Gavdos is a fishing paradise, with few but good-hearted people who patiently wait for the best days of summer to see their island teeming with visitors.
Gavdos, along with the nearby islet Gavdopoula, are a station for migratory birds on their long journey from Africa to Europe and back, and a haven for the endangered species of the Mediterranean monk seal and loggerhead sea turtle.
Gavdos is a unique gem of Southern Europe, far from the bustling "civilized" world, with wild beauty, crystal blue waters, dreamy sunrises, breathtaking sunsets, incredible coastline and beaches.
