Anafi island, Cyclades, Greece

An island in the heart of the Archipelago blessed with unique beauties. Mythology wants the island to have surfaced (in Greek, the word Anafi is derived from “anafainetai” which means to arise) from the depths of the Aegean to offer solace to the Argonauts, following command by the god of music himself, Apollo the Anafi. For centuries, it was a life-saving piece of land in the middle of the sea visited by many travelers. Today, it continues to be a safe haven for those travelers versed in the beauties of the Aegean. Sandy beaches to the south and pebble beaches to the west, tight stone-paved streets, white painted houses with abundant gardens, stone domed buildings, the ruins of a Venetian castle, and dazzling bright churches by the hillsides. The beauty of the Aegean is distilled on a single island.

The mountain/symbol of the island is Kalamos, also known as the “Anafian monolith”. It is a limestone rock visible from anywhere on the island and is located on the southeast side. It is connected to the rest of the island via a tiny isthmus, while many have sought its view, as a means to interact with and achieve internal harmony.

The rock is 460 meters high and is the second tallest rock in Europe after Gibraltar.

Every year on the 7th of September, the Monastery of Virgin Mary the Kalamiotisa, built-in 1715 on the ruins of an abandoned fortress at the rock’s summit, becomes a gathering point for an amazing celebration.

Today, the area is defined as a peninsula in the pan-European ecological network of protected areas under Natura 2000, given that visitors can see rare species of flora, as well as geomorphologic elements such as a cave with natural troughs and stalactites, which is approachable via a mountain path.

THE BEACHES

KLISIDI

utiful beach unique for its waters and surroundings, Klisidi is a sandy beach lined with tamarisk trees that provide the perfect shade.

KATSOUNI

A short pathways away from Klisidi you will find Katsouni, which you can also reach by swimming around the rock that separates the two beaches. The soft, warm sand and shallow waters are the perfect combination for you to enjoy your swim at this impressive but also quiet beach.

ROUKOUNAS

Talking about Anafi, you will inevitably mention Roukounas, with its unending sand and deep blue waters. A quite popular beach, where you can throw away your anxiety and stress, Roukounas provides you with a unique view of the monolith, the impressive rock of Kalamos.

AGIOI ANARGIROI

A small gulf, watched over by the church of Agioi Anargiroi, transforms into a welcoming corner for those who love the wildness of nature together with the magic of water. Its shallow emerald-blue waters will make you fall in love again and again.

MEGAS POTAMOS

Having left behind you Agioi Anargiroi beach and guided by a rocky trail, you will reach Megas Potamos beach with its amazing sand and total tranquility.

PRASIES OR MONASTERY

Engulfed by the shade of Kalamos, situated directly under the Monastery, it is one of the island’s largest beaches. Lying on its rich sand or tiny pebbles, you will soak in the sun after a swim in the invigorating waters of the Aegean. The gulf is called Prasies, while the beach itself is called Monastery.

LIVOSKOPOS

Golden sand and cool, crystal clear waters await those few visitors who venture to Livoskopos, to create memories that they will carry with them for years to come. It is located on the North side of the island and can be reached via a path that passes through rough landscape. Ask us.

* The aforementioned beaches are just some of our suggestions. There are numerous small gulfs around the island waiting to be discovered, all vying to be your favorite.