Just three hours away by ferry from the bustling Piraeus Harbour in Athens, you’ll find yourself transported to a simpler time on the island of Kythnos. This is Greece as many imagine it to be, yet rarely experience—an island where modern conveniences like credit card networks have only been introduced in recent years, and where the concept of rented sunbeds and umbrellas on the beach still remains a foreign idea.
Merihas: Gateway to Tranquility
As your ferry docks at Merihas, the island’s sleepy port, you’ll quickly sense the laid-back atmosphere that pervades Kythnos. While the port itself may offer limited accommodation options, the resort town of Loutra is where many visitors find their home base. Known for its thermal springs, once highly regarded by Greece’s King Otto in the 19th century, Loutra is the epitome of relaxed elegance.
Loutra’s Hidden Gem: Natural “Bathtubs”
Although there are plans to modernize the original neoclassical thermal complex as part of a new hotel project, visitors can still indulge in nature’s own spa. A natural “bathtub” rock formation by the beach allows for a free soak in the warm groundwater, making it a popular but uncrowded spot for both tourists and locals.
Kolona: A Sandy Stretch of Paradise
The Kolona beach is a true natural wonder—a sandy isthmus connecting the main island of Kythnos to the small islet of St. Luke. Perfect for swimming and sunbathing, its unique geographical formation is as head-turning as it is breathtaking.
Hiking and History
For those keen to explore more than just the beaches, a hiking trail leads to Kastro tis Orias, the island’s medieval Byzantine capital located five miles northwest of Loutra. Steeped in history and offering panoramic views of the island, it’s well worth the trek.
Kanala: Where Pilgrimage Meets Beach Bliss
Situated in the far southeast of Kythnos, Kanala beach is shaded by tamarisk trees and touched by the salty sea breeze. It’s not just a place for relaxation, but also a significant spiritual destination. The Church of Panagia Kanala stands here as one of the most important pilgrimage sites in the Cyclades.
Why Kythnos?
If you’re yearning for a taste of Greece that’s been largely untouched by the massive influx of tourism, Kythnos is your island. From its unspoiled beaches to its historical landmarks and its local, non-commercialized charm, Kythnos is a true throwback and a tribute to Greek island life as it once was.
