From Anafiotika...To Anafi!

The Aegean certainly has many large islands, some known for their beaches, others for the experiences they offer, and others for their hospitality. But there are so many Greek islands that there are also those smaller ones, hidden within the waves next to the larger islands. These small paradises await the summer months to be discovered by visitors. One such island is Anafi.

Routes to Anafi.

Anafi is located east of Santorini, with which it forms the southeastern islands of the Cyclades, and it is 150 miles from Piraeus. The ferry schedules are divided into winter and summer months. From September to June, there is a route twice a week connecting Piraeus to Anafi, and the journey takes about 10 hours. Additionally, there are routes twice a week from Santorini to Anafi and vice versa with a local inter-Cycladic ferry.

History of Anafi.

Since mythical times, Anafi has kept its name unchanged. Its first mention is in the myth of the Argonauts when, during a storm at sea, Jason prayed to the god Apollo to save them, and he revealed the island with a ray of light, which they named Anafi because it "appeared" in the middle of the sea. The island was the homeland of Aeolus, the god of winds, who offered Odysseus the bags of winds. Later, Phoenicians and Dorians settled on the island, inhabiting its center and founding the city of Anafi. In the Middle Ages, the island belonged to the Duchy of Naxos and was governed by Venetian rulers. During the reign of King Otto, due to the fact that the Anafiotes were the best builders in the country, many inhabitants moved from the island to Athens by royal order to build the palaces. They settled at the foothills of the Acropolis and created their own neighborhood, "Anafiotika," a miniature of their island, which remains an architectural jewel of Athens to this day.

Swimming at the beaches of Anafi.

Starting from the port, we encounter Klisidi, a sandy beach with trees for shade and a small settlement. Access is easy as it is only 2 km from the port. Directly opposite Klisidi are the islets of Makra, Ftena, and Pachia. From a path at Klisidi beach, you can be led to the beaches of Flamourou and Katsouni. The most famous beach on the island is Roukounas, large, sandy, with trees for shade, ideal for families and water sports. Another beach worth visiting is Monastery. It is a large beach with coarse sand and fine pebbles, just below the shade of Kalamos. The bay is called Prasies, and the beach took its name from the monastery that dominates the area. This peninsula is included in “Natura 2000.” The quality of the area stems from the fact that it is naturally protected, as the steep cliffs, ravines, and absence of roads make access difficult. It has great aesthetic value and archaeological interest, with many unexplored caves containing stalactites and stalagmites. Swimming there, it is quite likely to observe and photograph up close the Eleonora’s falcon, also known as the Barbary falcon, a migratory bird that comes to the Mediterranean in the summer months and returns to Madagascar and the other Indian Ocean islands to winter.

A walk around the island

For hiking enthusiasts, Anafi is the ideal destination. It has many paths that are easily accessible to visitors. The paths lead to beautiful destinations such as the Ancient city of Kastelli, a unique spot where you can find the ruins of the ancient city, the sarcophagus, and the chapel of Panagia tou Dokariou. Continuing the hike, climb to the highest mountain of Anafi, Vigla, and take the path that connects the Ancient City of the island with the Sanctuary of Apollo, now a monastery. The jewel of Anafi is Kalamos, an imposing limestone rock 460 meters high that is connected to the rest of the island via a small isthmus. It is considered one of the most formidable rocks in the world. It is the second largest in the Mediterranean after Gibraltar and is included in the Natura 2000 protected areas network. It hosts rare flora species and has impressive geomorphological features. It is ideal for those who love climbing. There are climbing routes, with the first one named "The Argonauts' Mission."

On the northern side of Kalamos lies Drakontospilo, a cave inaccessible from the sea and reachable only by a path. Its impressive entrance exceeds 10 meters in height. Further inside, water dripping on the walls creates golden-green deposits, columns, and natural basins, while its stalactites are still forming. The locals believe that its interior extends to greater depths, running along Kalamos and emerging at another smaller cave on the southern side of the monolithic rock. It is worth taking a boat trip around Anafi, giving you the opportunity to visit hard-to-reach beaches and observe the towering vertical cliffs of Kalamos, which will surely leave you in awe and provide an unforgettable experience.

Chora differentiates itself from those of other Cycladic islands with its numerous vaulted single-room houses occupying significant space in the settlement. Narrow alleys traverse every corner, leading to the Venetian Castle, the original core and heart of the village. Pedestrians roam freely, as Chora, being a traditional settlement, is not accessible by vehicles. Taverns, grills, a bakery, a grocery store, and bars meet the needs of the local population and visitors.

Designated as an island of exceptional natural beauty, Anafi has a rich aquifer, a rare feature for a Cycladic island. Almost untouched by time, it is a unique place for those who desire tranquil vacations, a pristine natural environment, and a simple way of life close to its hospitable inhabitants!

Don't forget to book your ferry tickets to Anafi at booktickets