Already from the ship we felt the difference; everyone got off at Kythera and we were left alone with the crew. In fact, when they saw us, they were worried that we forgot to get off at Kythera. After we assured them that we were heading to Antikythera, surprised, they doubled checked: “You’re going to Antikythera?” At which point it became clear that we were heading to a very remote, isolated island.
Between Kythera and Crete, Antikythera is two hours distance from each of the two islands. You reach the small island on the boat that connects Neapoli to Kythera and then continues to Antikythera. From Neapoli the trip takes four hours.
According to the last census, the islands population is 45 residents, but they are fewer. The island’s history begins in antiquity. Modern history and island folklore claim that the island was inhabited by Cretans who arrived here, on the run, escaping a Cretan vendetta.
The empty boat approaches the pier, and we disembark on the coast of Antikythera. The few streetlights light the small streets of Potamos, the largest village of the island, but no matter the efforts of the electricity plant that’s nearby, the night’s full moon shines much stronger on the white houses. You won’t be needing a car in Antikythera, since the longest paved street is 4km and there’s no gas station.
Apart from Potamos, the capital and port, there are many, both inhabited and uninhabited, villages scattered on the whole north part of the island. Harhalania, Katsaneviana, Galaniana, small settlements that get their names from the residents, since here a settlement means one or two houses of one family. There are apartments and rooms to let in various spots on the island, but the only taverns and mini markets are in Potamos, and they don’t offer much variety, so it’s best to bring your own provisions to the island.
What to do on Antikythera:
– Visit the small church of Agios Mironas, 4km away from Potamos. It’s built next to a cave with water. Agios Mironas is the patron saint of the island, and on August 17th the day when they celebrate the saint, a festival takes place in the courtyard.
– Admire the natural sculpture at the Kamarela location, at the west part of the island. The rocks create a wild, beautiful setting, while there’s a trail to the beach where you can swim. The steep rocks come out of the sea and the waters are crystal clear.
– Test your endurance by following the path that leads to the lighthouse of Apolitara, at the south edge of the island. The lighthouse is 23m tall and was built in 1926. It takes about 2 hours to cover the 5km of the trail, from the settlement Galaniana.
– Kastro, the fortified town, probably built during the Hellenistic times, is located east of the port. To go around Kastro, a 1.7km distance, you need about 40 minutes.
– In terms of beaches, there aren’t many sand beaches in Antikythera. You can go swimming at the small beach near Potamos and at the Xeropotamos beach.
Read also:
Heraklia: The little island-symbol of life on the Small Cyclades
