Kassos is the most southern island of the complex of the Dodecanese island, situated 3 n.m. southwest of Karpathos. It is 26 n.m. away from Crete with which it is connected by ferryboats leaving daily. The total surface area of the island is 66 sq. km and the coasts are 50 km long. The island is mountainous, with a rocky terrain. The highest peak is Prion (601 m.), while other mountains are Bixila (585 m.) and Kapsalo (583 m.). In the few valleys, one can see grapevines, sycamore and almond trees, watered by the river Hristos. The island's climate is mild. In the summer, the northeastern winds blew from Crete, while rain rarely falls in the winter. Due to the dry climate and the rocky terrain there are not a lot of cultivated areas, yet there are many sheep and goats producing top quality dairy products. Kassos has a population of 1,200 inhabitants occupied mostly with agriculture, stock-breeding, dairy production and fishing. The people of Kassos are quiet, serene and live a simple life, signifying the misfortune of the locals. The island has a growing touristic business, and the people are always willing to be hospitable and helpful to anybody who decides to visit the island.