100% customisable travel idea
Kea, Kythnos and Syros One-on-one, the secret Cyclades
Greece - Cyclades - Kea - Kythnos - Syros
100% customisable travel idea
Greece - Cyclades - Kea - Kythnos - Syros
100% customisable for you
Transfer to the port of Lavrio. In the late afternoon, ferry crossing to Kea. Another transfer and check-in for three nights in the centre - or thereabouts - of the island. From your elevated position, you have a sweeping, sparkling view of the sea. You can enjoy it from your private room. The hotel is like a hamlet whose guests are the occasional locals. The white flat surfaces of some walls stand out against the ochre and golden stone, giving the whole place a noble appearance. There are little corners to hide away in everywhere. Shaded terraces. A pretty swimming pool. The room is immaculate, with blue accents and natural tones. The restaurant sources its ingredients locally and draws inspiration from the mood of the day. The bar follows this Cycladic approach. Massages are another wellness option. And the beaches are easily accessible.
This morning, you pick up your rental car. The vehicle makes it easy to reach all the attractions of an island beloved by Athenians. It only takes an hour by ferry to get there and, unlike some places, it has managed to remain true to itself. This is no doubt partly due to its simple elegance, integrity and the calmness of its two thousand (and counting) inhabitants in the face of the urban customs that take over at weekends and in summer. It is an old Hellenic tradition to convert travellers to a rational way of life, which, as you’ll discover, is not the enemy of pleasure, although moderation is still advised - on the contrary. In short, Greece forever and contemporary sensibility come together here in a surprising way. The little donkeys, whose patience is essential in the shade of the old olive trees, would confirm this if they could talk instead of braying.
Optional - Boat trip around Kea.
On your itinerary - Electric bike ride around the bay of Agios Nikolaos. This is one of the most popular bays in the Cyclades and is a first-class haven. The meeting point is in Mylopotamos (with your private English-speaking guide and your eBike). The first few pedal strokes take you to Korissia. Next is Vourkari, a picturesque pocket harbour that becomes a hot spot for yachtsmen in the summer. You then continue around the bay, passing through Kokka and continuing on to the historic Kea lighthouse. At this spot, the sunset breaks free from the ordinary to offer a spectacular display of colour. On the way back, you will sample the island's finest produce. Along the way, you will visit small churches, be dazzled by the sea, intoxicated by the scents of the scrubland and charmed by the simplicity of it all.
Transfer to the port. Ferry crossing to Kythnos. Pick up your rental car and stay for three nights on the west coast, just south of Episkopi beach. The hotel overlooks the cove framed by rugged golden hills. The grey sandy shore is inviting, but what can we say about the unique pool that extends from the room? Or the infinity pool that, from certain angles, can only be distinguished from the sea by a shade of blue? It's tempting to lose yourself entirely in the view. Your suite is modern, elegant and full of natural charm. It offers everything a traveller could wish for: impeccable facilities and a spirit of hospitality. This isn't folklore, but an appreciation of that intangible quality that makes all the difference. The hotel restaurant is very successful, serving Greek and international cuisine. There are no pretensions or fuss, just perfection.
Today, Kythnos is the unspoilt Cyclades. Not miraculously, but because its shallow waters have long kept large boats at bay. Access is now easier, but the island remains off the beaten track. It has a raw and rugged quality. It is generally barren with reddish soil, and is dotted with vines, fig trees and almond trees. However, the terraces around Dryopida in particular bear witness to a once laborious and prosperous agricultural industry as Kythnos long supplied the breweries of Athens with high-quality barley. In ancient times, people came here to pray at the many shrines or to enjoy the thermal baths around the hot springs of Loutra. In the Mesolithic period, people were already settled in Maroulas (the only site from this very early period accessible in the Cyclades). Numerous beaches, including the famous Kolona, and authentic villages are among the many good reasons to stay here.
On your itinerary - Walking along ancient paths. The hike begins at the archaeological site of Vryokastro, northwest of Kythnos. There, you can admire an aqueduct, an acropolis and the temples of Apollo, Aphrodite and Asclepius. And in the distance, you can see Kolona, divided in two by a strip of sand - such an elegant beach! Then, through the countryside and its farms, surrounded by the scents of thyme and clary sage, you head towards the sand of Apokrousi. Along the way, you can hear the bees buzzing as they work to produce one of the local specialities: garrigue honey. The dry stone walls marking out and protecting the plots are also remnants of the old farming ways. Once you reach Apokrousi, which is the island's largest beach, you'll have earned your swim. The hike is accompanied by a private English-speaking private guide.
Transfer to the ferry terminal. Crossing to Syros. Another transfer, pick up of the rental car and check-in for three nights at the port of Ermoupoli. The hotel has a modern, light feel. White is the dominant colour, with a little blue and grey providing contrast. Your room is simple and comfortable, with just the right amount of everything. Parquet flooring always upgrades a room. That’s just how it is. Breakfast is served on site. For other meals, everything you could want is just a few minutes away. These are the typical urban conditions of the capital of the Cyclades.
Taking the lead sets you apart. This is true of Syros, which is distinguished by its status as an administrative capital, its commercial history and the neoclassical architecture of Ermoupoli. Its pretty beaches, pastel-coloured villages and heady hinterland nevertheless remind us that the Cyclades are very much the first among equals. There is a surprising amount of cultural activity here, and it is also of a very high standard. Un standing. This is evident in the monuments of Ermoupoli as well as the port facilities - it is a city on two twin hills. To the north is Ano Syros. It is a regular medieval triangle whose elements began to be assembled in the 13th century and whose summit is occupied by the Catholic Cathedral of Saint George. The Capuchin monastery dates back to the 17th century. To the south is Vrontado, where the modern town is located. Ano Syros is the Latin heart of Syros, while Vrontado is Orthodox and crowned by the Church of the Resurrection of the Saviour.
Optional - Ermoupoli at your leisure.
Transfer to the airport and flight to Athens, then international return flight.
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