#kythira

A tiny Greek island with great beaches 🌅 🏊‍♂️ 🌊

Everyone knows that Greece has some of the most beautiful Mediterranean islands. But few foreign tourists have heard of Kythira and that’s just the way the locals like it.

For most of the year only about 3,500 people live on the island. In summer, however, thousands of Greeks come for holidays, many back to homes that have been in their family for generations. There are no major tourist resorts – it’s a Greek island rich in history and tradition, with dozens of beautiful beaches.

Kythira is an unspoiled island with a beautiful crystal blue sea, charming waterfalls and traditional villages. I would characterise the island as the perfect getaway for people who want to visit off-the-beaten-path parts of Greece. Ideal for travellers who value peace, nature and laid back vibes.

Beaches in Kythira are secluded and surrounded by nice landscapes. You can enjoy them in total privacy. My favourite memory goes back to the day when we visited Kaladi Beach. It’s the most beautiful beach of Kythira.

Kaladi is divided into three parts. On the third part you can find a small cave which ends on a teeny tiny little beach. It’s so cool! And we were lucky because when we visited we had the small beach all to ourselves for the entire day. It was like being on a deserted island.

Greek food is always tasty and Kythira is no exception. You can’t go wrong with the food here. For local specialties make sure you try eggplants cooked with xinochontro (sour cream). It’s a classic dish in Kythira.

Another traditional dish is a local version of Greek Fava served with vegetables. Since it’s a Greek Island you can’t say no to freshly caught and cooked fish too. The seafood on Kythira is world class and super fresh. If you’ve got a sweet tooth then Rozedes is your best bet. It’s a sugary delight!

Kythira is not a party island. There are no beach bars here with loud music or nightclubs raging until the early hours of the morning.

That being said, some beaches are well equipped with sunbeds and food canteens. However, many are just natural beaches with no facilities at all. So it’s important to bring your own umbrella, sunscreen, food, water, etc.

I believe Kythira is perfect for couples, families or small groups of friends who want to have a relaxed holiday. I promise you’ll love it.

📍Avlemonas,Kythera,Greece 🇬🇷

Wonderful Kythera... Everything here dances in the light and time freezes... The transparent sea floods the cells with a magical journey that never ends.

@xristos.x.paravalos

#Kythira#kithira#avlemonas#kaladi #diakofti

Closeup details of an Ares illustration entry that I made for my Sing O Muse zine contribution last year. Ares, in my version, is often hanging out with Aphrodite and the Graces, Hera + her daughters, and Poseidon the most, either for his warrior bodyguard duty or just running casual errands in his home. Zine is out now, so you better check them out and grab them while you can since they are still piping hot from fresh printing !!!!

The temple background was that of Aphrodite Ourania in Kythera, one of the oldest structures dedicated to her located in mainland Greece dated from the 6th century BC, which was later converted into Agioi Anargyroi church (St. Cosmas & Damian) during Byzantine times.

According to legend, Aphrodite was born from the sea foam stranding to the seashores of Alvemonas Bay of Kythera first before arriving in Paphos, Cyprus. Aphrodite Ourania, as in her “heavenly love” aspect was depicted as an armed warrior goddess within this modest temple right here, and there are still fully preserved walls + niches within the current ruined building along with its Doric columns!!!!

The beautiful village of Kythira Chora

Kythira, Greece