Antiparos Is the Final Hidden Gem Island in Greece — How one can Go to

In the case of Greek islands, Mykonos and Santorini are virtually assured to be on the itinerary. The party-centric playground of the Cyclades and its endlessly photogenic huge sibling have endeared themselves to thousands and thousands of vacationers over time. It additionally helps that, logistically talking, each locations are accessible through ferry and airplane, and make for a superb base for hopping round.

However when you’re to discover past the well-trodden path and expertise a less-touristy aspect of the Cyclades, think about Antiparos. Regardless of its proximity to Paros — which is on observe to grow to be a sizzling spot due to Instagrammable Naoussa and new lodges comparable to Andronis Minois and Avant Mar — the small, quiet neighboring island within the Aegean Sea stays one thing of a best-kept secret. “I actually like that it’s devoid of huge manufacturers and chains, so all the things remains to be native and distinctive,” says Caro Favre, co-owner of Casa Fistiki. The vibe right here feels relaxed, and you’ll simply lose observe of time whereas catching rays on the seaside and sipping Assyrtiko with pals. Cool in an easy means, it’s a spot the place the jet set decamps for a weeklong keep in a whitewashed villa that’s solely accessible by a dust highway and in-the-know day trippers come from close by islands to decelerate even additional.

Learn on for the very best issues to eat, see, and do on a visit to Antiparos. 

Greatest Accommodations and Resorts

Kameo

Tucked away within the south of Antiparos, Kameo friends over Despotiko and lies simply steps from Agios Georgios Seaside. An actual-life Cyclades sanctuary, it’s replete with whitewashed structure accented by magenta bougainvilleas, Aegean blue trim, and pure stone. Go for one of many ethereal sea-view suites to benefit from the spectacular environment.

The Rooster

For one thing luxurious but laid-back, test into The Rooster, a tranquil boutique resort nestled away on 30 untamed acres. Effectively-integrated into nature and with a concentrate on well-being, the property invitations company to recharge with leisure time spent outdoors, therapeutic spa rituals, and meals that celebrates elements from the backyard. It’s additionally a shocking spot to catch the sundown.

One other Island

In search of somewhat further quietude? Intimate, serene, and providing pretty views, One other Island sits atop a hill overlooking the bay of St. George and Despotiko. All 5 conventional Cycladic properties have been lovingly restored with reverence to the previous and an eye fixed on the current. Count on whitewashed minimalism, out of doors swimming pools, and panoramic sweeps.

Kouros Village

Choose to remain inside strolling distance of eating places and outlets? Kouros Village sits proper by the harbor. “It’s a bit extra easy, however comfy with fashionable decor and an outside pool. And it’s actually well-located,” notes Favre.

Le Collectionist

“Lots of people come to Antiparos with family and friends,” explains Favre. She suggests looking Le Collectionist. The portfolio of luxurious leases accommodates teams and comes with VIP perks like transfers and concierge service. A continuously booked favourite, Villa Ray has 5 bedrooms, an outside pool, and sleeps 10 in model.

Greatest Issues to Do

Boat Day

Among the prettiest elements of Antiparos are greatest accessed from the water. Chartering a non-public boat permits for exploring the assorted bays and having a picnic lunch on some unmarked spit of shore. Alternatively, you may be part of a small group tour for the same expertise at a fraction of the fee.

Faneromeni Seaside

A wildly stunning possibility for adventurers and tranquility seekers alike, Faneromeni Seaside is a small cove that’s reachable by a rocky, uneven dust highway (a couple of 20-minute drive from city). It’s with out facilities, so you should definitely convey drinks, snacks, towels, and umbrellas — mainly all the things you want for a seaside day.

Agios Georgios Seaside

Located within the small village of the identical title, Agios Georgios Seaside is a sheltered bay with crystalline water and picturesque views of Despotiko. Whilst you will not discover facilities like sunbeds and umbrellas for lease, the peaceable and picturesque setting greater than makes up for having to BYOS (convey your personal shade).

Antiparos Village

This charming harborfront village is small and walkable, although Favre suggests going within the night when it’s a bit cooler. “Stroll alongside the primary avenue, perform a little procuring, cease someplace for dinner, after which seize some drinks or gelato,” she provides.

Despotiko

To the southwest of Antiparos, Despotiko, a tiny islet inhabited solely by goats, is house to the Historic Sanctuary of Apollo and sandy seashores. The calm, clear waters beckon vacationers to drop anchor and go for a swim.

Associated: 20 Greatest Seashores in Greece With the Bluest Water You have Ever Seen

Greatest Eating places

Casa Fistiki

Mexico meets the Mediterranean at Casa Fistiki, a classy eatery with good vibes and sea views. It’s the proper place to seize a low-slung desk, order a cocktail or fresh-pressed juice, and share a number of plates of corn ribs, tuna tostadas, and butterfly-grilled fish with pals.

Kalokeri

“The house owners of Kalokeri are super-welcoming and actually care about service,” says Favre. The dishes style genuine to the Aegean area, however it’s extra upscale than taverna-style meals (assume: artfully plated crimson mullet tartare and dolmadakia with wine leaves. The wine record is superb, too.

Sapou

Lauded as top-of-the-line eating places on the island, Sapou serves fashionable Mediterranean delicacies injected with a slight Asian affect. Standouts embrace the crimson shrimp tartare with crumbled hazelnut and char siu Greek pork.

Zombos

At Zombos, the main target is on contemporary elements. Produce plucked from the backyard, meat produced on the household farm, and seafood caught by native fishermen go into home-cooked dishes like pappardelle with goat ragu, baked auberge, and Greek salad.

Taverna Yorgis 

Cozy and alluring, Taverna Yorgis is a family-run institution that treats diners like previous pals. The home made Greek classics like tzatziki, freshly baked moussaka, gigante beans, and hen souvlaki are complemented by heat hospitality and native wine.

Greatest Time to Go to

June is a pleasant time to go to as a result of it’s heat, however not too sizzling and nonetheless comparatively quiet. In accordance with Favre, July and August are perfect for vacationers who need to have enjoyable and be social. Even throughout peak months, the island by no means feels too busy, and it’s nonetheless simple to expertise serenity and empty seashores. By September, the water has had all summer season to heat up and a lot of the vacationers depart, so it’s additionally a beautiful time to go to.

How one can Get There

Most individuals take the ferry from Parikia — the primary port on Paros — however it’s really faster and cheaper to go from the smaller port of Pounda. The journey lasts about seven minutes and prices one euro per passenger or seven euros for a automotive. It’s additionally simple to coordinate a gaggle or personal sightseeing tour from Paros that brings you to Antiparos for the day.

How one can Get Round

Whereas Antiparos is sort of small, issues are unfold out. If you wish to discover the island and entry a number of the extra distant seashores, it’s greatest to have a automotive.