Kythira

Kythira

Being part of the Ionian group but located under Peloponnese and resembling the Cyclades... Kythira island is a strange mixture but strange in the good way. Its location separates it from all Greek islands and at the same time it combines the distinguishing features of all groups - the cubical whitewashed houses of the Cyclades, the blue water of the Ionian and the greenery of the North Aegean.

The remoteness from all bigger ports of Greece has helped Kyhtira preserve its authenticity and the island is still unspoiled by mass tourism.

General information about Kythira

The population of Kythira amounts to over 4 000 residents. The mountainous terrain prevails and the west part of the island is almost uninhabited, with desolate pebbly beaches and more difficult access. The villages are small and located mainly inland, except for a few seaside resorts. You can notice that architecture is mixed - some houses have roofs with red tiles and a hint of Venetian style, others are just like the white Cycladic buildings.

The capital Chora is in the southernmost part. It is a scenic village built on the slopes of a high hill, with narrow streets, old churches and a Venetian castle on the top which is illuminated at night. From the castle spectacular views are revealed toward the sea and the village of Kapsali with two large bays in front.

Where to stay in Kythira?

Kapsali, Agia Pelagia, Diakofti, Avlemonas and Platia Ammos are the seaside resorts of the island, the last two being quite small. A choice of accommodation options is available in the inner part of the island as well, in the villages of Potamos, Livadi, Chora and Mylopotamos.

The mountainous village of Mylopotamos is proud with its springs, the waterfall Fonissa and the gorge where in the past 23 watermills were working. Today only one of the mills is in good condition, the place is very good for a walk and lunch in the hot summer days.

Which are the best beaches of Kythira?

The beaches of Kythira are predominantly pebbly, with small or large smooth pebbles. The few sandy beaches are Kapsali, Diakofti (the finest sand in the island), Agia Pelagia, Kaki Lagkada and Limnionas.

However, the most exotic beaches of Kythira are covered with small pebbles. Such is Kaladi, the most popular and photographed beach of the island - impressive place with big rocks and caves around it. Other beautiful beaches are Firi Ammos, Komponada, Chalkos and Melidoni, and they all have beach bars with amenities in the summer. There are two beaches in Kythira called Firi Ammos, the one which is near Agia Pelagia is known for the red pebbles around the shore.

What to do in Kythira?

Interesting places and sights in Kythira:

- The capital Chora with its Venetian castle
- Paleochori, ruins of the ancient capital of the island near Agia Pelagia
- The cave church of Agia Sophia in Mylopotamos
- The castle of Kato Chora, one of the oldest settlements of Kythira
- The village of Avlemonas, with its small beach between sea cliffs which looks like a canal
- The waterfall and Phill`s watermill in Mylopotamos
- The caves near Agia Pelagia, Kalamos and Diakofti
- The church of Agios Georgios (Saint George) on the rocky promontory which divides Kapsali bay into two
- The cave church of Agia Pelagia near Feloti beach and the rock pool below it
- The islet of Hytra opposite Chora. It is hollow and has a big sea cave inside, boats enter the cave and you can swim in the blue water

How to get to Kythira?

The island has a small national airport for flights from and to Athens. By ferry you can reach the island in a few ways and the journey takes from 1.30 to 6 hours:

- From the port of Neapoli Voion, Peloponnese
- From the port of Gythio, Peloponnese
- From the port of Kissamos, north Crete
- From the port of Piraues (two times a week)