Overview of Anafi
Myth says that Anafi emerged from the sea in order to provide shelter to the Argonauts. Nowadays, this small Greek island is a refuge for alternative travelers. Free campers, backpackers, climbers and any type of modern, boheme wanderers –couples and groups of friends included- have found a friendly hideaway in the Aegean.
Mountainous and barren Anafi is located at the southernmost part of the Cyclades, close to the famous island of Santorini. However, it doesn’t share much with its cosmopolitan, crowded neighbor, as the motto in Anafi seems to be “less is more”. This is pretty obvious regarding the island’s basic touristic infrastructure (and limited road network), among other aspects. Anafi boasts proudly of its wild, pristine looks and pure Cycladic character: Remote beaches with teal waters (most of which accessible by boat or foot), a twist of sightseeing and endless tranquility. The best way to get to know the island is by boat excursions or hiking (there are numerous pathways).
The main highlight in Anafi is the capital, Chora, one of the most beautiful in the Greek islands: Amphitheatrically built, whitewashed and picturesque, with dome-roofed houses, courtyards full of flowers, windmills and the marvelous Venetian castle. A stroll at this representative settlement reflects the island’s philosophy: In Anafi you learn to get by with little and realize what is truly important. Just let go and make the best out of this easy going Greek island.
Photo gallery of Anafi
Beaches Food Things to see & do
Megalos Roukounas
: One of the most popular beaches on Anafi, former hippies’ (in the ‘70s) and free campers’ haven. Situated at the mouth of a stream, it’s a long, sandy, non organized seashore. The surrounding area offers some amenities to sunbathers.Megas Potamos
: Located at the mouth of the homonymous gorge at the mountainous region between Kasteli and Chalepa, this pebbly beach can only be reached by boat.Agioi Anargyroi
: A small picturesque sandy cove with emerald waters, featuring the nearby chapel of the same name, built on a rock. You can reach it either by boat or walking.Klisidi
: A large, sandy beach with clear blue waters set in a rocky landscape with a few tamarisk trees. It can be accessed by a 20 min walk from the port of Agios Nikolaos. Other neighboring swimming options include the small and secluded coves of Flamourou, Katsouni and Mikros Roukounas.Anemos
: Chora, Greek cuisine.To Steki
: Chora, Greek cuisine.Margarita
: Klisidi, Greek cuisine.Liotrivi
: Chora, Greek cuisine, seafood.Akrogiali
: Agios Nikolaos, Greek cuisine, seafood.Visit the neighboring Santorini
: Visit the neighboring Santorini: One of the most famous Greek islands, cosmopolitan and unique, is less than two hours by boat from Anafi.Kalamos
: This is the most important natural monument of Anafi. An imposing tall monolith rock –the second highest in the Mediterranean after Gibraltar. Hiking can turn out rather hard in order to reach it, but it looks spectacular, especially in sunset. At its top, you can visit the Monastery of Panagia Kalamiotissa (the island’s patroness) and enjoy the absolutely breathtaking views. Note also that in the area of Kalamos, you can see the cave of Drakontospilo.Explore the island on a boat
: Anafi is one of those Greek islands where a boat cruise is the best way to enjoy its most pristine and isolated beaches, as well as the small satellite islets like Anafopoula, Anydros, etc.Ancient sightseeing
: The remains of the island’s ancient port lay at the area of Katalimatsa, also known for the beach of the same name. The ruins of the ancient temple of Apollo Aeglitis are situated at the foot of Kalamos rock, in the area that surrounds the island’s well-known Monastery of Zoodochos Pigi (also worth visiting). Last but not least, the remnants of the ancient city of Anafi can be found at the hill of Kasteli. These include the town’s acropolis, cemetery and many findings from the roman period, scattered throughout the region. Among those, an impressive marble roman sarcophagus stands out next to the chapel of Panagia sto Dokari.Feasts and Festivals
: The most prominent feast on Anafi is held on 8th September at the Monastery of Panagia Kalamiotissa. Moreover, “Argonaftika”, the island’s popular cultural and sports events take place in August.Local and delicious
: Anafi is famous for its excellent thyme honey, goat cheese and the rare variety of strofyliatiko wine. You can also try spaghetti with lobster, goat meat in the oven, paragemista (pies with honey and sesame) and koufeto (a traditional sweet made with almond and honey, offered in weddings and christenings).Map of Anafi
Reviews of Anafi
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