This little-known island is defined by stunning waterfalls and pebbled beaches you’ll have almost entirely to yourself
It often feels as though everyone in the UK is actively planning a Greek island holiday. The feeling isn’t entirely baseless, given that many Greek island groups experienced record-high tourist visits in the last two years.
According to Mabrian , a leader in travel data intelligence, Greek islands outside the traditional cruise circuits are experiencing a surge in popularity. Notably, the islands of Lesbos and Chios in the North Aegean region saw year-on-year visitor increases of 78.8 per cent and 65.2 per cent respectively, as of 2024. But, despite the constant hunt for the next best Greek hideaway, one island has managed to remain under the radar.
Kythira is one of the most isolated of the Greek islands. Located at the bottom of the Peloponnese peninsula, it is technically part of the Ionian island group, but draws parallels to the Cyclades for its Venetian architecture.
One reason the island has been overlooked by many is because it is not quite as easy to reach as some of its cousins. The best way to get to the island is by taking a local flight from Athens to Kythira airport or by taking a boat from Athens or Neapoli to Kythira’s Diakofti port. Once you arrive, there are plenty of lovely accommodation options in the historic capital of Hora, as well as in the surrounding villages. In the old fishing village of Avlemonas, many fishing houses have even been transformed into beautiful holiday flats. Meanwhile, the island’s hilltop capital features the white-washed lanes, Venetian architecture and authentic tavernas characteristic of many other Greek islands, the real appeal of Kythira is its natural beauty.
Because the island doesn’t have as much tourism as others in Greece, the wild landscape of gorges, valleys, waterfalls and astonishing beaches have retained an element of seclusion and pristine beauty. As a result, a cooling dip in the crystal clear waters of the Fonissa waterfall can be enjoyed in peace and quiet. Kythira’s beloved Lagkada beach has also been awarded a Blue Flag for its superior water quality. And there are many other beaches in Kythira worth exploring, including Kalami (if you’re keen to hike and explore the Agia Sofia cave) and Diakofti (if you want to enjoy the beautiful white sands).
Keep in mind that unlike Diakofti, many of Kythira’s beaches are pebbled, so waterproof shoes are recommended.
It’s worth planning your trip around the island’s sensational wine festival. The festival takes place in the village of Mitata during the second weekend of August. The annual event started in 1982 to promote the importance of wine production for the local economy.
Local wine varieties to keep an eye out for are Arikaras (red) and Petrolanos (white). As their production is limited, only a few bottles make it to the market. The festival is also a great way to sample other local products including honey, pure salt, olive oil, and tsipouro (the basis of the local liqueur, Fatourada ).
