Kythira

The mythical island of Aphrodite

Their fame may spread all over the world, but Kythira (also known as Kythera) remain a low-profile island, because the locals are resisting stubbornly the requirements of the mainstream. On this incurable romantic island that seems to hover between the Aegean and Ionian seas, Crete and Peloponnese, you will experience a “different” journey from the others. You will fall in love with Kythira, one of the birthplaces of Aphrodite, once a Venetian stronghold and later a pirate base. The island has imposing castles, secret caves, picturesque bays, delightful villages and beaches to suit every taste. You’re holidays here in Greece will be thrilling!

Medieval charm and “hidden treasures”

“Tsirigo” as the Venetians used to call Kythira, was the main base of Pirates and the famous Barbarossa, because of its prime location. A separate part, with rare landscapes, relaxed atmosphere and romantic streets invites you to discover the secret treasures under the stars or having as a company the “hot” Greek sun. If Chora is the beautiful capital of the island, Kapsali is the village you will fall in love at first sight. From the canyon Tsakona you will enjoy the breathtaking view of the green Mitata, while the picturesque seaside village of Avlemonas will give you the romance you desire. Mylopotamos, a village full of legends and traditions appropriate to locals, serves the best Greek traditional coffee under the perennial plane tree of the square, while the Watermills in Fairy’s Waterfall (also known as Neraida or Fonissa {Killer}), will offer you a spectacle so magical you’ll think you are around fairies and elves…

What to see

-The Castle (Fortetsa) 

It used to be called “the eyes of Crete” as it looks onto the three big seas in Greece – the Ionian, Aegean and Cretan. The Venetian era comes to life as you walk through the castle in the main town.

–Kapsali and the twin bays 

Though at its southernmost edge, Kapsali is the hub of the island. You’ll be captivated by this lively waterfront hamlet with its twin bays and solitary lighthouse. Bars, cafes and restaurants, all invite you to enjoy yourself.

–Paleohora, the city of ghosts

The castle-state of Agios Dimitrios, a place of legends and ghosts, used to be the island’s capital and is perhaps its most important historical site. Built by people from Monemvasia in the 12th century above two canyons at an altitude of 216m, it is not visible from the sea. Despite this, the infamous Ottoman admiral and former corsair Haireddin Barbarossa discovered, besieged and destroyed it completely.

–Hytra

At a particular hour of the day the sun shines into the cave of the islet of Hytra, turning the waters turquoise and the walls golden. You can get there by boat from Kapsali and swim inside the cave. At 200m long and 22m high, it is one of the most spectacular in Greece.

-The cave of Saint Sophia

Life-size frescoes of saints painted in the 13th century greet you at the entrance of one of the most spectacular sights in Kythira. Inside the stalagmites and stalactites are natural wonders.

-Watermills in Fairy’s (Neraida) ravine

It’s a fascinating spectacle! You set off from the waterfall and continue down the ravine of the Nymphs to discover the old watermills. One of the most enjoyable walks on Kythira.

-The monastery of Panagia Myrtidiotissa 

It is the largest monastery on Kythira. It is located in the western part of the island, near the village of Kalokairines. The Panagia Myrtidiotissa has been considered the protector of the island and its inhabitants since the 13th century, when a shepherd found her icon in Myrtidia. Each time the shepherd took it home, it would miraculously reappear in the same spot. In this spot, a small chapel was built, which exists today and is located below the new temple. During your visit to the monastery, take the time to climb to the spot called the Stavros (cross), on the top of the hill above it, and enjoy the astounding view.

Swim in turquoise beaches 

–Kaladi Beach

Kaladi beach is a pure marvel that every tourist should seek in Kythira. It is located 15 km north of Chora, the island’s capital and close to Paleopolis. The small beautiful beach consists of pebbles and an enchanting rocky landscape.

–Melidoni 

According to the legend, this well protected bay with the crystal green waters the sand and the very small red pebbles, is the place where Paris met Helen. Τhe access is quite difficult, but on the other hand, you will meet many people who won’t be intimidated by the “endless” track road that leads to the beach, beautiful and rough scenery and a great view of the island of Hytra.

–Diakofti

In Diakofti region is one of the prettiest beaches of Kythira for its blue green water and exotic and enchanting landscape that attracts many visitors. The long beach has soft white sand and shallow water, which makes it ideal for families.

–Kapsali

Near the picturesque village of Kapsali, that are visible from the Castle of Chora, are two twins sandy bays. The smaller one consists of small rocks and is quite remote, while the other one offers a refreshing swim at the beautiful crystal waters.

–Agia Pelagia

The beautiful beach of Agia Pelagia lies in front of the settlement 26 km northeast of Chora. The long beach stretches for 400 metres with golden sand and white shiny pebbles scattered at the shore. The beach is known for its sparkling waters and the perfect surroundings.

–Chalkos 

Chalkos is a small beach located 8 km south east of Chora, the capital of Kythira and close to Kalamos village. The beach distinguishes for its unique features, charming atmosphere and beautiful landscape. Surrounded by the imposing verdant cliffs, is one of the most frequented beaches with unspoilt characteristics.

Activities 

–Watersports 

Many of the beaches are offered for water sports. You can go surfing or jet skiing on beaches with large area such as Paleopoli, Firi Ammos, Agia Pelagia or Neos Kosmos. The important thing is to have your own boat otherwise you can rent one in Kapsali. Also, in Kapsali there is the possibility of renting water bikes, canoes and speed boat to go water skiing or tubes.

–Hiking

A lot of unpaved paths, seemingly deserted villages, impressive gorges, flowers, herbs and wild goats make Kythira a true walking paradise. Of all the possible routes, you’d like to follow, maybe the best is Mylopotamos. Alternatively, you can follow any of the following routes: Chora- Kapsali, Avlemonas – Saint George mountain or Potamos- Paleochora.

-Diving 

The features of the island include enormous rocks, large caves, reefs, wrecks and rich underwater life, offering many exciting dive sites. The fans of scuba diving can contact the numerous diving centers and admire the bottom of Kythira.

-Yachting

There are many possibilities to go sailing as rented boats of all sizes, thus managing to find beaches that are only accessible from the sea.

–Fishing

The sea of Kythira is ideal for fishing since its large depth in conjunction with reefs, hides a large variety of fish and seafood. Either with nets, loglines, fishing rod octopus, squid, lobsters and crawfish. The western side of the island is ideal for fishing since there are many reefs.

-Cycling

A great solution to discover trails, paths and streets that otherwise you could not go to.

Gastronomy 

Don’t forget to try the traditional honey of Kythira and tasty “Fatourada”, the traditional liqueur of the island, made from moonshine and cinnamon carnations, flavored with mandarin, orange or apricot. The “rozedes” is a traditional sweet of the island and the “pastitseto”, a sweet made from vanilla, fresh butter and quince jam, you must taste. The island is also famous for rusks and delicious traditional cuisine. For great food and local specialties, the “Panaretos” on Potamos Square is the perfect choice. Panaretos sits in the fragrant shade of pine trees and excels with dishes using home-grown produce, such as wild goat with olive oil and oregano sauce or pork fillet with thyme. For traditional flavors and home atmosphere you should go to the restaurant “Filio” in Kalamos, or visit “Skandia” in Paleopolis. This delightful tavern offers authentic Greek fare and freshly sourced food, ranging from grilled fish and fish soup to roasted eggplant.

If you prefer more elaborate dishes and local specialties go to “Perivoli” in Mylopotamos, but also visit the “Idragogeio” which offers a unique view of Kapsali, that will satisfy even the most demanding tastes. Enjoy a walk in the picturesque harbor of Avlemonas just before dusk and then have a delicious dinner with fine wine at the best perhaps restaurant in Kythrira. In “Psomoladea“ the magic atmosphere will make you fall in love, while the excellent dishes will make you feel the authentic Greek cuisine. Visit “Fos Fanari” an elegant and friendly cafe, that sells fresh croissants, juices and homemade ice cream and has a well-stocked bar and views of the sea and mountains. The “Mercato” and “Varocco“ are standard values ​​for a drink under the stars, as well as “Koukos bar” with the panoramic views, down Kapsali, above the Castle…

Access

There are a lot of ways to come to Kythira. Plane from the international Airport of Athens (45 minutes flight) or boat from Piraeus (a trip of around 7 hours). The airport of Kythira is located on the northern side of the island. In summer, also receives air connections with other Greek airports, such as Zakynthos, Kefalonia, Aktion/Preveza and Corfu. These connections are operated by the small air company Sky Express. If you travel from Thessaloniki the air company Astra Airlines is the ideal choice for your flight. Also, you can come by car up to Gythio (Peloponnese) and Neapolis (Lakonia) and from there again by boat. There are ferries to Kythira from the port of Neapolis, a small port town in southern Peloponnese. These ferries run almost daily (6 times per week) and the trip takes 1h 30min. There are also year-round ferries to Kythira from Gythio and Kissamos (Crete) 3 times a week. In summer, direct ferries depart from Piraeus to Kythira and Antikythira once per week. If you come from abroad, you can reach Kythira with direct flights from Athens Airport “Eleftherios Venizelos” or you can fly with charter flights to Kalamata National Airport “Captain Vassilis Konstantakopoulos” and then take the ferry to the island.