Kythnos

Island Overview

Kythnos is located in the West Cyclades, and it is not as popular as other islands in the Cyclades. The island offers tourists both gentle and dramatic sceneries that will blow your mind. The island is also surrounded by beaches that you can explore. It is a perfect destination to go on a yacht charter in Greece if you are looking for a chance to escape from the hustle and bustle of the city. There is a wide range of activities that you can try out in Kythnos, from relaxing on the beaches to hiking around the island.

Navigation

On your yacht charter holiday to Kythnos, you will find a wide range of anchorages where you can anchor your yacht.

You can head to Ormos Kolona, Ormos Apokriosis, and Ormos Fikiadha, and they are just N of Ormos Merikha. Ormos Kolona is a sandbar bay, and you can anchor in the NE corner, which is 3-10m on the sand. In the summer, you will take a long line ashore to the N side. The bottom of the bay is sand, and it has good holding. You can also anchor in 3-5m on sand and weed in Ormos Fikiadha. It has a good holding as soon as the anchor is through the weed. In Ormos Apokriosis, anchor in 5-10m on sand and weed, and then take the long line ashore to the N side for added security.

You can also take your yacht to Ormos Merikhas, which is a small harbor on the W coast and the ferry port of Kythnos. You can then go stern or bow to the quay between the two piers.

Ensure that you allow plenty of scopes, and you anchor your boat well in to cope with ferry wash and the gusts from the Meltemi. Most ferries are now using the new quay that is just outside the basin.

General information

Kythnos is a Greek island located in the west Cyclades between Kea and Serifos. The island is small, and it is not developed in tourism like other islands around it. This makes it a heavenly retreat for crewed yacht charters looking for peaceful and serene vibes. The island is surrounded by quiet beaches, scenic villages, and serene landscapes that you can explore by joining a yacht charter in Greece.

The island will not stay a secret for long because of its picturesque scenery and should be on your yacht destinations while you are in the Cyclades.

Places of Interest

Panagia Kanala

Panagia Kanala is one of the best churches that you will find in Kythnos. You will find the church in a picturesque location, and it also serves as a fine example of the types of churches in Greece.

The church is among the top destinations on the island, and it offers plenty of photo opportunities for tourists.

Kolona Beach

This is a mind-blowing beach and one of the highlights of visitors to the island – it is even more stunning than in pictures. The beach does not offer natural shade but you will love its spectacular scenery.

Byzantine Museum

You will find this museum in Driopida, and it is an excellent destination for history and religious enthusiasts. The museum houses collections like holy icons, golden crosses, and gospels from the 18th century and numerous other ecclesiastical items.

Merichas Port 

This port is the busiest and most touristy part of Kythnos. It looks just like a typical Cycladic harbor with its white houses but is also surrounded by modern buildings. You will find hotels and taverns where you can try out delicious fish delicacies.

Chora

The main town of the island was built on the top of a cliff to hide from the pirates. Chora is filled with whitewashed houses, jewelry stores, cozy shops, and traditional taverns to explore. The town has a relaxed vibe, and it is surrounded by small chapels that are constructed with the traditional architecture of the island.

Kythnos Hot Springs

The island of Kythnos is popularly known for its hot springs, and it attracts visitors from all over the world. In the past, the island was known as “Thermia” as a reference to the thermal springs at Loutra Village.

Apokrousi Beach 

This is an excellent family-friendly beach that you can visit when in Kythnos. It is a great destination to chill out as it is equipped with a bar, sunbeds, and umbrellas.

Church of Agios Ioannis

You will find this church in Chora, and it is located on a paved street surrounded by pastry shops, and cafeterias. It has Cycladic architecture, and it is a lovely destination not to miss for architecture enthusiasts.

History of Kythnos

The history of the island dates back to the prehistoric period. Lots of old settlements were found around the island, and the site of Vryokastro is among the most popular. You will find this site above the bay of Episkopi, and it dates back to the 7th and 5th centuries BC. The island has been destroyed and rebuilt many times. In 1207, during the Venetian era of Kythnos history, the island was controlled by Frankish Lord Marco Sanudo. The island remained under Venetian rule for about 400 years. During that time, the island was called Thermia, and the capital was Kastro. The last Venetian lord was Angelo Gozzadini before the Turks overthrew him in 1617.

The island then remained religion-free after the Turks took over the island, but it was poor and backward. The locals later revolted against the Turks. In recent years, the island was under the first Greek King Othon, who used the island as an exile for political prisoners. The population of the island also dwindled during the Second World War. Today, the island is prosperous and thriving, and it is gradually getting popular among tourists.