The atmospheric Chora, the imposing monolith, the enchanting beaches, and everything that makes Anafi an ideal destination for carefree, relaxing holidays.
It may not have the fame and sparkle of neighboring Santorini, but Anafi certainly has devoted fans who faithfully return year after year. Alternative, bohemian, and solitary, with its wild landscape, unhurried pace, and stunning golden-sand beaches that enchant visitors, Anafi is one of those islands that will offer you the most essential pleasures in the simplest wrapping: a beautiful sunrise over the endless blue, a delicious meal after a swim in a humble taverna, and the wonderful feeling of doing nothing and enjoying it.
The picturesque Chora of Anafi
Heading uphill from the port of Agios Nikolaos, after a 3 km route, you'll reach Chora, the island's only organized settlement. Small, picturesque, and whitewashed, built amphitheatrically above the port at an elevation of 260 meters, like a balcony suspended over the Aegean, Anafi's Chora is one of the most beautiful in the Aegean.
Its distinctive feature is the numerous domed single-room houses with blue windows, while its narrow alleys lead to the old Venetian castle at the heart of the settlement. Among Chora's attractions are the picturesque windmills on the hillside.
The Gibraltar of the Aegean
Anafi's trademark and showpiece is the - visible from wherever you stand on the island - Kalamos, in its southeastern part, 22 km from Chora. It is an imposing limestone rock 460 m high, connected to the rest of the island by a small isthmus. In fact, it's considered the second largest in the Mediterranean after Gibraltar. It's a favorite climbing field and is included in the Natura network of protected areas.
At its highest edge stands the Monastery of Kalamiotissa, dedicated to the Virgin Mary, which is inextricably linked with legends and local traditions. The view from here will be unforgettable. The more romantic start the ascent of the rock in the afternoon, spend the night with sleeping bags in the monastery's courtyard, and wait to watch the sunrise over the Aegean. On Kalamos's northern side lies the Drakontospilo, a cave inaccessible from the sea and reachable only by a path. Its impressive mouth exceeds 10 m in height.
The trails
Anafi is the ideal destination for lovers of hiking. The island has many trails that are easy to access and will lead you to small chapels, farmhouses, and other special destinations such as the ancient city, Kastelli, and Anafi's highest mountain, Vigla. Also, by following the trails you can reach the island's beautiful sandy beaches and small coves, such as Katsouni, Flamourou, and Agioi Anargyroi.
Anafi's beaches
Anafi's beaches are one of its strong suits. On the island's southern side, the beaches are sandy, sheltered, and more popular. You can reach these beaches on foot, by boat, or by bus. On the northern side, the beaches are rocky and quieter. The large, sandy beach of Roukounas, once synonymous with free camping, is the most famous beach on Anafi. Kleisidi is another lovely sandy beach with trees for shade. It's close to the port and easy to access.
From Kleisidi, walking a path for 10 minutes, you can reach the small beach Katsouni. After Katsouni, you'll find Flamourou, a beach with blond sand and imposing rocks. For deeper relaxation, visit Agioi Anargyroi, one of the island's most remote beaches, with the namesake picturesque chapel above the sand. Finally, Livoskopos is a small and secluded beach of distinctive natural beauty on the island's northern side.
Spots for food and entertainment
- At the Akrogiali taverna, at the port, try the fish soup and the stews.
- The fish taverna Armenaki in Chora has balconies with impressive views of the Aegean. In the evening it also has live music.
- At Liotrivi you'll enjoy fresh fish, meze, and tasty stews, along with the wonderful view.
- Another good choice for fresh fish is Anemos in Chora. Be sure to try the kakavia.
- On the way to the square, the traditional little taverna Astrakhan is a classic choice for traditional cuisine.
- Margarita in Kleisidi is a must for breakfast, and for delicious home-cooked food after a swim at the lovely beach.
- Madres is the island's legendary bar and one of the best for watching the sunrise.
