The gorgeous European island with pretty beaches that's 24C in October

Karpathos, also known as Carpathos, is the second largest of the Greek Dodecanese islands, located in the southeastern Aegean Sea.

A stunning island in the Aegean Sea, Karpathos is a hidden gem within the Greek islands. Offering a perfect blend of unspoiled natural beauty and a rich cultural heritage, it is the second largest of the islands. Yet, it's surprising just how under the radar it manages to be, with an authentic Greek feel.

The charm of the island is down to its breathtaking beaches where you can dive into crystal-clear waters and bathe in the softest of sands. There are thought to be over 50 beaches to choose from, many of which remain secluded and tranquil.

Amongst those most popular with locals and travellers is Apella Beach, which is renowned for its turquoise waters and beautiful surroundings. Whilst Kira Panagia Beach is most famous for having golden sands sitting beneath a famed red-domed church.

After paying a visit to Apella Beach, a traveller took to TripAdvisor to say: "I think it's the most beautiful beach of Karpathos, easily accessible by scooter, easy road, and some hairpin bends at the end of the journey. Just down the main staircase opens the show of colours that you will see in the picture. Crystal clear waters, mostly pebble beach."

Situated on the island is the village of Olympus, with unmatched beauty and outstanding whitewashed houses. Located 58 km northwest of the capital, Pigadia, the quaint village is home to roughly 400 residents, all of whom help to preserve the traditional layout and colours of the area.

Built amidst luscious green forests, it is a Greek haven that acts as a living museum with its rich history and idyllic atmosphere. A tourist wrote on TripAdvisor: "You must have seen Olympos on Karpathos. We went on an excursion, first by boat along the coast to Diafani and then by bus to Olympos.

"It is a beautiful village built against the mountain with narrow streets and historic houses where you can go in and get information about the life of the past in Olympos. The women still wear traditional costumes, and their way of life is still very much alive, and their heritage is carefully protected.

"You will visit handicraft workshops, a museum, historic windmills, and several small Orthodox churches scattered throughout the village. An absolute must is the richly decorated Ekklisía Koimíseos tis Theotókou church."

For those hoping to indulge in the great outdoors, Karpathos offers an excellent array of activities on the water and in the countryside. Windsurfing is an often desired activity in the area, especially in the Afiartes region, which has favourable wind conditions.

Hiking trails are also available across the island for those keen to wander through and absorb all of the stunning landscapes and panoramic views of the sea surrounding them. There is the Karpathos Kali Limni hike to the highest peak of the Dodecanese, as well as valley walks and other mountain trails on offer to see it in all of its glory.