The island of Kea: the pleasure of the Cyclades at only one hour from Athens
Written on : 28 July 2021 By : Leo-Paul Weiss
The island of Kea is a favorite destination of the Athenians because of its proximity to the Greek mainland. It is less well known than its neighbors and attracts far fewer tourists from all over the world. However, this small island is very different from the other Cycladic islands and is of particular interest to immerse yourself in the local culture, far from mass tourism. Kea is unique and deeply authentic compared to its neighbors. Indeed, the architecture, the landscapes, and the beaches of Kea are different, with more greenery and vast spaces.
Moreover, unlike all the other Cyclades islands accessible from the port of Piraeus, you will have to take a ferry from the port of Laviron, located in the southeast of Attica, to reach Kea. The island is not served by the ports of Mykonos and Santorini either.
Today we are heading for the small island of Kea to discover its treasures and riches far from the mass tourism and the hustle and bustle of its neighbors.
Built on a hillside and nestled in a green setting, the picturesque village of Loulida has a neoclassical architecture that will change you from the classic postcard of the Cycladic villages. But the warmly colored houses with brick roofs offer a very unique charm that will seduce anyone coming to Loulida.
Take the time to walk through the sokakia - small streets -, climb the steep and winding stairs, stop at a small tavern with a beautiful view of the coastline. You can also take the opportunity to see the Lion of Kea, carved into the rock in 600 BC. Today it is the island's mascot.
Discover the archaeological site of Karthéa
The southern part of the island has some archaeological wonders that you can't wait to discover when you arrive at the village of Kato-Meria. You can then take a short hiking trail to the site of Karthea. The former capital of Kea during ancient Greece, some remains of its fortifications and columns are still visible. Not far from here, you can go swimming at the beach of Kaliskia.
Rendezvous at the monastery of Pangia Kastriani
Built-in the 18th century, this monastery is today a place of pilgrimage for the islanders, but also many pilgrims from abroad. Especially on the day of the Assumption to celebrate the Virgin Mary. Built on the heights of the island, this monastery offers a great view of the Aegean Sea and as a small haven of peace, it will provide you with a beautiful setting to recharge your batteries and meditate.
Diving in the places of mythical shipwrecks
In 1914, the Britannic, the Titanic's big brother, was officially launched. Initially a simple passenger liner, she was then requisitioned as a mobile hospital by the Royal Navy for the needs of the First World War. His sixth expedition off Kea was to be his last, the ship sinking on 21 November 1916 after a collision with a German mine. Since then, the wreck has been accessible a few kilometers off the coast of Kea only to professional scuba divers. For the more amateur diver, the wreck of the Greek ship Patris dating from 1868 lies near the Koundouros banks.
Take a short walk in Kea
Kea is a playground for many hikes thanks to a wide variety of ancient paved paths and tracks amidst lush vegetation and breathtaking landscapes. You will also have the opportunity to discover caves such as Kalamos. These small paths can also lead you to beautiful little coves.
Sunbathing on the beaches of Kea
If you come to Kea, it is to escape the mass tourism of the other Cyclades islands and enjoy a small, unspoiled haven. Kea offers beautiful little beaches all over the island, not very crowded. If you have the opportunity, take the time to go to Spathi beach on the north-east island. This beach has an arid and rocky setting and offers a beautiful landscape. The beaches of Kami and Liparo are also quite secluded. For a more popular beach with facilities and bars, head to Koundouros.
