KEA

The closest of the Cycladic islands to Athens, Kea isn’t as much of a tourist destination as you might think – apart from the weekends, a lot of local holiday traffic heads further south. Perhaps that’s because in some ways it not the typical ‘quaint’ islands you’ll find elsewhere in the archipelago. Not a place of domed churches and sugar cube white dwellings, rather neo-classical buildings. In many ways, that’s quite refreshing. 

It’s a small island with a permanent population of around 2,500 – about half the number of people who lived here in the 1900s. There are three main towns/villages, the main port of Korissa, the fishing village of Vourkari and the inland capital of Ioulis which is known for its ancient carved stone lion. Other antiquities here include the ruins of a temple dedicated to Athena. 

You’ll find nice beaches around the craggy coastline, places to eat and drink, and the hills are particularly well known for hiking paths and trails. Come mid-week if you’re after tranquillity, come at the weekend if you want the cosmopolitan Athenian vibe. 

Our recommendation: probably not your first port of call however you’re travelling. But Kea’s proximity to Athens makes it the perfect penultimate island stop for one last souvlaki and bottle of Retsina before you head back home.