Kythnos: The island of simplicity with countless beaches

Close to Athens yet far from it all, Kythnos is an ideal destination for summer weekends as well as for longer holidays of complete relaxation.

You need just two hours from Lavrio and three hours from the port of Piraeus to reach this island of the Cyclades that will win you over with its simplicity and unique beauty. If you dream of an utterly relaxing holiday on an island with magical Cycladic landscapes, countless beaches with crystal-clear Aegean waters, whitewashed chapels and traditional villages - gems, then Kythnos is your destination. Visit it once and it is almost certain you will return.

The picturesque Chora of Kythnos

The Chora of Kythnos, also known as Messaria, built amphitheatrically on the slope of a hill, lies 8 km from Merichas, the island’s port. Small squares and cobbled lanes, colorful shops, whitewashed houses with painted doors and windows, steps, arches and covered walkways, churches and windmills compose a charming scene with authentic Cycladic character. Here you will see churches with distinctive architecture and richly adorned interiors. Standouts include the Church of Agios Savvas, dating from 1613, that of the Saviour with its 17th-century iconostasis, and the Church of the Holy Trinity, the island’s oldest.

The distinctive Dryopida

The village of Dryopida is undoubtedly worth a visit. It belongs to the Cyclades, yet it does not resemble a typical Cycladic village. Hidden from the sea, Dryopida lies in the southern part of the island, 8 km from Chora, nestled between two hills at an elevation of 190 meters. According to tradition, the settlement owes its name to the Dryopes, the island’s first inhabitants. Here, buildings have tiled roofs, as the village has a long tradition in ceramics. The village’s maze-like alleys are a true labyrinth. Wander among traditional tile-roofed houses, old churches and pretty little squares. At the southern end of the village you will come across the Katafiki cave, one of Kythnos’s best-known attractions, with a rich display of stalactites and stalagmites. A visit offers a refreshing respite.

Panagia Kanala

The area of Kanala is famed as the island’s "greenest" spot. There, perched on a rock, stands the monastery of Panagia Kanala, the island’s patron and one of the most important pilgrimage sites in the Cyclades. The church was built in 1869 on the site of the original church after the discovery of the icon by local fishermen. Tradition says the icon was hauled up in fishermen’s nets in the strait (channel) between Kythnos and Serifos.

The seaside Loutrawith the thermal springs

Thesecond name of Kythnos is Thermia and it is owed to the thermal springs,which are found in the picturesque bay of Loutra, on the island’s northeastern side. In recent years Loutra has been developed for tourism and is home to the Cyclades’ only thermal springs. There are two hot springs. One, Agioi Anargyroi, is saline and lies inside the hydrotherapy center that has operated here for many years. The second, the Kakavos spring, is 50 m from the first, and its temperature reaches 52 degrees Celsius. The hydrotherapy center of the baths was visited in the past by King Otto and his wife Amalia.

The heavenly beaches

Kythnos has countless beaches for every taste - secluded or cosmopolitan, sandy or pebbled. Kolona is Kythnos’s most famous beach and one of the Cyclades’ most impressive. The sandy strip that links Kythnos’s coast with the rocky islet of Agios Loukas creates two beautiful, sheltered beaches on either side. The beach lies on the island’s northwestern side, and after Apokrousi access is via a relatively rough dirt road. It is not organized, so it is best to arrive with the appropriate gear.

Leaving the port of Merichas heading toward Chora, you will first encounter the small sandy beach of Martinakia and then Episkopi and Apokrousi, the only organized beaches that have fine sand and are busy. Passing through the settlement of Chora you reach the bay of Loutra. Close to Loutra you will find the beach of Agia Eirini with its picturesque settlement, Arkoudi and Schinari, while continuing northeast you will come to the beaches of Kavourocheri, Potamia and Agios Sostis.

Zogkaki, Naousa, Kouri, Agios Stefanos, Ai Giannis, Vasilika, Kalo Livadi, Megali Ammos, Ammoudaki andGaidouromantra are a few more options for endless dips.

Accommodation

A stone’s throw from Kythnos’s picturesque Chora lies the luxurious Chora Kythnos Suites. This tranquil hideaway, amphitheatrically built in harmony with the Cycladic landscape, offers an unforgettable stay.
Built at the entrance of Chora, the Aneraides apartments blend traditional architecture with understated decor and a minimal aesthetic, providing the ideal setting for relaxation.
A stone’s throw from Episkopi beach, Amal Kythnos Suites, a complex of suites and two-story villas, is an ideal choice for couples, families and friends seeking a tasteful haven of relaxation.
Near Episkopi beach, Aenya Kythnos Villas offers a personalized stay. Designed for those seeking relaxation away from the crowds, it boasts impressive sea views and every comfort.
In a quiet area at Martinakia beach, about a 5-minute walk from the port of Merichas, Villa Elena Kythnos is a welcoming accommodation ideal for all visitors to the island, from couples and friends to families.
On Kythnos’s quiet side, at Kalo Livadi, IKOS offers an unforgettable stay. It is an impressive 200 sq.m. stone villa perched above the blue waters of the Aegean, resembling a private retreat.
In the Kalo Livadi area, Pearl & Salt stands out for its unique seafront location. It is a 110 sq.m. maisonette designed for those seeking peace and privacy on their holidays.
Kythnian Retreat is an ideal holiday choice for those seeking peace and relaxation. This elegant villa lies just steps from a hidden gem of the island, a nearly deserted beach near Kalo Livadi.
Built on a hill with wonderful sea views and within easy reach of Kastella beach, Kastella Sunset Villas are an ideal accommodation choice for families, groups of friends and travelers with pets seeking a peaceful Cycladic retreat.
Set in a prime location near Kanala in Kythnos, Verros Hut offers tranquil holidays overlooking the Aegean blue. This villa, part of Verros Suites & Villas, combines privacy and quiet with immediate access to the island’s beaches and villages.
In a breathtaking landscape, in a quiet bay on the island’s southwestern side, about 30 km from the port, the MV Kythnos Seaside Villa is the ideal destination for peaceful, quality holidays.
Built in Loutra, Kythnos, in a spot with impressive Aegean views, White Wave offers a relaxing stay with modern comforts. It is an impressive seafront villa designed for those seeking laid-back holidays.

Food

In a lovely island setting in the Chora of Kythnos, Steki tou Detzi serves many appetizers, grilled-to-order meats and tasty home-style dishes.
A must stop in Chora is Margiora, a restaurant, wine-cocktail bar and delicatessen housed in an imposing 1866 mansion. Enjoy everything here from coffee and breakfast to delicious, creative dishes made with Cycladic ingredients.
At Ostria restaurant in Merichas you will always find fresh fish and seafood, savored beside the moored boats.
Since 1981, the family-run taverna Archipelagos in Panagia Kanala has served home-cooked food made with pure local ingredients.
In Dryopida, be sure to try the food at Hartino Karavi. Chef Alexandros Angelis prepares unique dishes with contemporary touches and local ingredients. Do not miss the superb stews at the wine-cookery«I Pelegra».
In an idyllic setting on the bay of Agia Eirini next to Loutra, Arias restaurant serves fresh fish and well-crafted seafood dishes at tables right by the sea.