Road Trip to Kythira

Preparing for your Road Trip:

Before starting your adventure, it is important to organize yourself properly: Car Rental: Renting a car is essential to comfortably explore every corner of the island. Make sure to book your vehicle in time, especially during the summer months. Choose a car that suits your needs and take into account the possibility of driving on country roads.
Map and GPS: Although the island is not huge, a good map (either printed or digital) and a GPS are essential to avoid getting lost and to discover hidden routes more easily. Accommodation: Choose your base in Kythira according to your preferences. You can stay in one of the larger villages such as Kythira (Chora), Potamos or Agia Pelagia, or choose a more secluded accommodation near a beach.
Supplies: Stock up on water, snacks and sunscreen, especially if you plan to spend several hours exploring the countryside.
Flexibility: A road trip to Kythira requires flexibility. Don’t be afraid to deviate from your original plan and follow your own discoveries.

Suggested Routes and Stops:

Below we suggest some indicative routes that you can follow, combining different points of interest, among the unique traditional villages of Kythira, the magnificent natural sites and unique historical monuments from antiquity to the present day.

1. The Heart of the Island and the Eastern Coasts:

Start: Start from Chora, the impressive capital of the island. Walk through the narrow alleys, admire the Venetian architecture and visit the Castle, which offers panoramic views of the Aegean Sea.
Continuation: Head to the picturesque village of Kapsali, the port of Chora, with its beautiful beach and traditional taverns.
Next Stop: Visit the impressive Chalkos beach, with its white pebbles and crystal blue waters.
Optional Detour: If you have time, make a stop at the historic monastery of Panagia Myrtidiotissa, the island’s patron saint.
End: Complete your route in Agia Pelagia, a seaside village with a beautiful atmosphere and options for food and accommodation.

2. Wild Beauty and Western Shades:

Start: Start from Potamos, one of the largest villages on the island with a vibrant life and the traditional Sunday market.
Continuation: Drive west and visit the impressive gorge of Neraida or Fonissa. Follow the path (with caution) to discover the small waterfalls and natural pools.
Next Stop: Discover the picturesque village of Mylopotamos and the beautiful Kala tou Mylos, with its abandoned watermills and lush vegetation. Don’t miss visiting the impressive Fonissa waterfall and the Fairy Pond.
Optional Detour: Continue west and reach Livadi, a fertile village with traditional architecture.
End: End up at Limnionas beach, a secluded and enchanting beach with a rocky shore and crystal clear waters.

3. Southeast Discoveries and Lighthouses:

Start: Start from the village of Aroniadika, known for its traditional houses and peaceful atmosphere.
Continuation: Drive south and visit the historic village of Pitsinades, with its characteristic square and panoramic views.
Next Stop: Reach the Moudari lighthouse, an imposing building on the tip of Cape Spathi, offering stunning views of the Laconian Gulf.
Optional Detour: Discover Melidoni beach, a beautiful sandy beach with shallow waters, ideal for families.
End: Return via the village of Logothetianika, another picturesque village with traditional architecture.

Sights You Shouldn’t Miss:

In addition to the suggested routes, there are other sights in Kythira worth visiting during your road trip to the island:
Agia Sophia Cave (Kalamou): An impressive cave with stalactites and stalagmites, which testifies to the rich history of the island.
Venetian Castle of Katopotamos: A well-preserved Venetian castle with a wonderful view. Paleochora (Agios Dimitrios): The ruins of a Byzantine castle city, which testify to the historical importance of the island.
Bridge at Katouni: The largest stone bridge in Greece, an impressive architectural work. Lake Kakouli: A small but beautiful lake with rich vegetation.

Gastronomic Delights:

During your road trip, don’t forget to try the local flavors of Kythera: Ladopaximada: Traditional oil rusks.
Fried nettles: A special and delicious dish.
Honey: Kythera is famous for its thyme honey.
Wine: Try the local wine varieties.
Xerotigana: Traditional almond sweets, and xerotigana.

Tips for a Successful Road Trip:

Drive carefully: The roads in Kythera can be narrow and winding, especially in the mountainous areas.
Respect the environment: Keep the beaches and natural areas clean. Communicate with the locals: The people of Kythera are hospitable and willing to give you information and advice.
Enjoy the peace: Kythera is an island with a relaxed pace. Indulge in the tranquility of the landscape and enjoy every moment.