Kythnos is not the Cycladic island that will mesmerise you, nor the one you’ll want to come back to again and again. But all in all, it’s a very good choice for a short weekend getaway if you want to visit the Cyclades and want to try something close and new (cause I’m sure you’ve been to Kea!). Plus, it’s definitely off the beaten path (for now) and still relatively unspoiled.
Chora
A visit in the white-washed narrow streets of Kythnos is definitely a must any time of the day. Whether you’re wandering through the small local shops and pantries in the morning to get the absolutely necessary for your breakfast or you’re cruising by at night for the occasional drink in one of the cafes, the chora of Kythnos offers quite a pleasant walk. The architecture may not be the one you’ll stumble upon in Sifnos or other islands of the Cycladic complex, yet there is some sort of tradition you can find of an island that has still not been flooded by the tourists and commercialised accordingly.
Make sure you stop by Tratamento, where the lovely old ladies prepare the famous amygdalota, a local delicacy dessert, as well as other liquers and sweets of the sort. You can also buy some vegetables and fruit from places that seem somewhat deserted but the produce is good. There’s even very good ice cream if you fancy something to sweeten your palate after your dinner. The church of St.Panteleimon is also quite the scene and behind it The Kraken is a nice stylish bar for the evening hours.
The beaches
If you’re looking to swim, dive or sunbathe you’ll have plenty of options, all good but nothing great. Despite the numerous mentions of Kolona beach as one of the best beaches in Greece, it’s best if you keep your expectations low – yes, it’s formation is unique and the waters are nice, but the experience is not that great getting full of boats and tourists of the sort every single day during the busy summer months.
Instead, opt for the more remote and equally serene waters of Potamia, Skylos and Gaidouromantra. The are also a couple of organised beaches, Apokrisi (Coconut beach bar) and Episkopi (To Pountaki beach bar) in case you’re looking for an adventure-free swim.
Aerial view of the famous Kolona beach
Aerial view of Agios Sostis bay
Caramelized kotsi (pork shank) at To Hartino Karavi in Dryopida
Grilled octopus at Ostria restaurant in Merichas
Crystal clear waters at Potamia beach
Swim
Stay
Eat/Drink
Kythnos signature cookie-based dessert