Information about the island of Antiparos
Antiparos, the small island of the Cyclades next to Paros, is a stark white ensemble bathed in bold touches, a historic place of global interest. It is known for its natural beauties, its authentic Cycladic beauty and the absolute sense of tranquility.
Even though Antiparos is such a small island, it can get very busy in summer. It is only 30 minutes away from Paros, and is therefore a popular goal for people that like travelling around. Some time ago only a few would visit it, mainly those who had heard of its famous cave and made a day trip to Antiparos from the nearby cosmopolitan island of Paros.
Today things have change. Visitors have discovered that the little sister of Paros is a small world with its own charms, so more and more visitors spending their holidays here in order to explore it. In Antiparos the pace of life is easy and smooth, and despite the small size of the island, there are plenty of choices and for every taste.
You go to Antiparos for the beauty and the beaches, and surprisingly, for the nightlife as well. Therefore it is a good holiday resort for both families, youngsters and a more mature audience. It all comes down to where you choose to stay: in Chora you’ll find the nightlife, and in Psaraliki you’ll be close to the beach. A very good side of Antiparos is that it is almost traffic free and you can walk to many places
Antiparos Castle evokes romance and emotion. Here the imagination gallops and the senses as if drugged and wake up in another world. It is not a simple fortification project, but an organized urban complex, one of the most interesting medieval settlements of the Aegean and one of the most important attractions of the island. Its coastline is famous for its lacy and secret beaches, crystal clear waters and enchanting sea caves of rare natural beauty.
The architecture in Antiparos has a typical Cycladic beauty, with the white houses, the cobbled streets and the colorful bougainvillea blooming in the courtyards of the houses and it is a popular tourist resort for Greeks and foreigners. The churches that are scattered in various parts of the island have been a cornerstone of island tradition for centuries.
Antiparos is endowed with absolute natural beauty, it has lush landscapes full of cedars and together with dozens of uninhabited islets it is an amazing example of natural beauty and archaeological interest. The Antiparos Cave is one of the most beautiful and important in the world, because it was created millions of years ago. Inside you can admire the unique stalactites and stalagmites in impressive shapes.
The settlement of Chora with its characteristic Cycladic architecture, the white houses decorated with bougainvillea, the narrow cobbled streets, the picturesque square with the eucalyptus and the ruins of the Venetian castle make up an incomparable image, recall aspects of the past and are recognizable images in almost every Cycladic island.
Antiparos is an island that deeply impressed those who met it with the many surprises it hides, but above all there is the warmth, kindness and hospitality of the inhabitants who guarantee that your stay will remain unforgettable.
Geographic data
The area of the island is 35 sq. km and due to its long and narrow shape, its coasts exceed 57 km in length. To the east (that is, towards Paros) the coastline is smooth, while to the west it is rocky with small creeks.
Antiparos is a volcanic rock with a dry climate and high humidity, while the morphology favors the development of strong winds. It is an island with low hills and the most important mountainous mass is Prophet Ilias (300 m.), which occupies the largest part of the island in the center.
To the north of Prophet Ilias is a lowland area, Kampos, which separates the northern part from the rest of the island. The morphology of Antiparos is essentially flat, with many small hilly peaks, while the vegetation of the island is low. The soil is fertile in the plain and northern lowlands of the island, but crops are limited.
The rocks of the island consist of limestones, gneisses, slates and volcanic rocks. Small amounts of ore were formerly mined in the now abandoned mines. The ancient name of the island was “Oliaros” which means wooded mountain. But an unknown catastrophe changed its morphology.
History
Antiparos is closely connected with the history of Paros. The island was probably one with Paros at some time, and there is evidence that there were Neolithic settlements here. In the 2nd Millennia BC it was probably inhabited by theMinoans. In the 13th century the island, just like its neighbours fell under Venetian Rule, only to be conquered by the Turks 300 years later.
The liberation came in the 19th century. During World War II the island was occupied by Italian soldiers.
Economy
The island’s economy is based mainly on tourism, fishing, animal husbandry and less on agriculture. It is a popular summer tourist resort for Greek and European visitors. Small settlements are developing in Agios Georgios and Soros.
Fishing in Antiparos is naturally one of the oldest and traditional professions. Of course, the fishing activity was more intense in the previous decades, but now there are only a few who are exclusively employed in it, due to the depletion of the fishing wealth.
In recent years there has been a significant increase in the planting of olive trees. The olive fruit produced is mainly used for olive oil production. The prevailing varieties are thrombolia and koroneiki to a greater extent. There are scattered olive trees of the Amfissa and Manaki varieties. The cultivation practices used in olive cultivation are very close to biological systems as little or no pesticides are used. However, organic farming is developed (checked by a certification body).
Grapevines and especially grapevines are a traditional crop for Antiparos. The main wine-making varieties grown are from red varieties: Mandilaria, Vaftra and Aidani and from white varieties: Menemvasia, Assirtiko and Savvatiano. Large quantities of wine grapes are sold to Paros wineries. Unavailable quantities of table and wine grapes are distilled to produce traditional drinks such as suma.
Antiparos has important sulphide deposits. Zinc ores were extensively exploited mainly from the 1870s, which continued sporadically into the next century, until 1955. However, the significant iron ore deposits were not systematically exploited, and a small calamine mine was exploited intermittently.
Local Products and cuisine
The famous traditional products of Antiparos are considered to be the fragrant tsikoudia and souma, amber wine, various varieties of traditional sweets, pickled capers, thyme honey, various cheeses such as kefalotyri, mizithra (sweet, sour) and toulomotyri.
In terms of cuisine, Antiparos followed the path of self-sufficiency. It could not be an exception to the rule of insular isolation. Antiparos cuisine was based on the products of the sea and the land: lots of fish, minimal meat, game, greens, pulses and cheeses accompanied by wine or local tsikoudia.
In Antiparos there are several traditional taverns and restaurants, where you can enjoy fresh fish and seafood and local delicacies. The places to eat and drink in Antiparos are concentrated mainly in Chora, but also in popular seaside settlements.
Cultural Events and Festivals
In Antiparos during the year many traditional festivals are organized in honor of many saints of the island. The younger ones as well as the visitors have the opportunity to get to know the traditional customs and traditions of the island, with dance and music.
The three-day Cultural Summer includes a series of cultural and artistic events, while a special place is occupied by the revival of the scenes from the movie “Madalena” filmed in 1960, with Antipariotes and theatrical performances at the local school.
The main town of Antiparos
Chora or Kastro, as the residents call it because of the famous castle, is the capital of the Municipality and the main town and port of Antiparos. The settlement spreads around the Venetian castle, at the north-eastern end of the island, at the bottom of a naturally protected bay and along the coastal zone.
The first image one sees when arriving at the island’s port are the colorful fishing boats, yachts and ships with tourists. Taverns, restaurants, cafes on the wide street that encircles the harbor and above the houses.
The town of Antiparos has all the necessary infrastructure to meet the needs of visitors, such as a supermarket, an ATM, a regional doctor’s office and a small market of food, coffee and beverage outlets and accommodation. In Chora, there is public transport or taxis for travel to the rest of the island and to the islands of the wider area. Other well-known seaside settlements are the holiday settlement of Ai-Giorgis at the south-west end, which has been included in the city plan, Soros and Kampos.
Opposite the pier the main road, the old cobbled Kobiakas, which is the commercial center of the village, leads to the center of old Antiparos, with all kinds of shops, to end up in the unique, picturesque square of the village, at the entrance of the church, Agios Nikolas, the metropolis of Antiparos.
From here a road leads to the gate of the castle, the western one reaches Sifneikos Gialos and the southern one goes to other houses. The road from Chora to the chapel of the Cross offers a unique view of Antiparos, Paros and the neighboring islets.
The settlement with its typical Cycladic architecture, the white houses decorated with bougainvillea, the narrow cobbled streets, the picturesque square with the eucalyptus and the ruins of the Venetian castle make up an incomparable image, recall aspects of the past and are recognizable images in almost every Cyclades Islands.
In Antiparos, the visitor can enjoy this beauty, enjoy the romantic walks in the settlement and daydream walking slowly on the cobblestones of the Castle, without being disturbed by the crowds and bustle that prevails on other islands. Sights of Chora are the Venetian Castle with its churches and the Historical and Folklore Museum.
Nightlife and entertainment
The night life in Antiparos is centered on the main square of the capital which offers several options for night entertainment. Bars like Sunset, Boogaloo and Tabula Rasa for super cocktails. In the square you will also find Lime, Smile and Kafenio to try an interesting mix of fruits.
Almost all the bars of the island are gathered in the square. The strange thing is that Antiparos has taken the initiative and has made sure that all the bars in the square play the same music, from a DJ who changes every day from 8 to 11 at night.
Τhe nightlife character of the island may now tend towards the mainstream, but there are also options for rock fans. Doors a small bar where people drink beers and rock to classic rock rhythms and Lucky Luke, an island pub with darts that plays from rock to dub and serves cheap beers.
Very late at night you end up at the two legendary after bars of the island for one more drink. At La Luna disco you will dance to Clash, Marley and others until the sun rises along with almost the whole island, while at Mylos you will listen to Greek mainstream, but also electronic music, depending on the day.
Finally for cinema fans there is a the picturesque summer cinema where admission is free.
Eating out in Antiparos
You will find economical meal at Zorbas, a rustic tavern that prepares super seafood at great prices. At the port, Statheros, right next to the ferries, has delicious stews, seafood and meat, while Klimataria is a classic, family tavern with traditional food.
In Agios Georgios, Captain Pipinos serves delicious seafood in a wonderful location in front of the sea, while if you have children with you, Yam is all you need for a meal and a game in its improvised playground.
Samano restaurant offers a menu made up of creative Greek dishes, delicious flavors on plates to share with friends in original combinations. Here you will find the famous avocado tzatziki, as well as fava beans with Drama choristo, truffle and thyme, marinated sea bream with mango, chili and citrus, ruster kokoretsi with parsnip puree and sumac and kebab with Naxos lamb, onion jam and spicy mayonnaise.
Activities
In recent years, Antiparos has developed into a cosmopolitan resort, where many celebrities from all over the world visit the island, for its natural beauties, the picturesqueness of its settlement, the cave with the impressive stalactites and stalagmites, the traditional Cycladic flavors, the golden beaches, but above all for the warmth and hospitality of the residents that guarantee an unforgettable stay.
Tour of the island
The tour of the island and its dozens of small islets by boat is of great interest, because its coasts are among the most beautiful of the Cyclades with sea caves, rocks of various shades and amazing beaches, many of which are only accessible by sea.
Diving
The calm, crystal clear waters of Antiparos are ideal for diving, but also for exploring with a mask. In recent years there has been an effort to develop diving in Antiparos. In fact, the seabed around the island has interesting reefs and some old shipwrecks, which provide good diving spots. On the island you can find diving centers if you have a license or if you want to learn how to explore the underwater world. The recommended beaches are Agios Georgios, Monastiria and Soros.
Kitesurfing
The best location for kitesurfing is the eastern side of the island as the wind is stronger in this part of the island. The most suitable beaches are Psaraliki and Glyfa
Cycling
Due to its low altitude and small size, the island is ideal for cycling. The suggested routes are: from Chora to Livadia via Kampos, from Sifneikos Gialos to Livadi (Kambos), from Livadi to the Great Monasteries, from the Great Monasteries to Kaki Skala, from Kaki Skala to Prophet Ilias, from the Bad Stairs in Agios Georgios.
Hiking
Hiking in Antiparos offers the chance to experience the island’s natural beauty and tranquility firsthand.There are no major mountains in Antiparos, so hiking trails are generally not very strenuous. Most routes will take you through picturesque landscapes, featuring olive groves and pristine beaches.Walking along the coast is a popular way to explore the island. There are many secluded beaches that are accessible only by foot, offering peaceful spots to relax.
What to see
Castle of Antiparos
The Castle of Antiparos is located near the square of Chora and is the only preserved castle in the province of Paros whose remains are preserved today. The Venetian castle of Antiparos dates back to the middle of the 15th century and is an uncharacteristic example of all castles. It was built between the 13th and 16th centuries by the Veneto Giovanni Lorentano to protect the inhabitants from pirate raids and was inhabited until the 19th century. It is a fortified settlement that resembles other island castles in the Cyclades, but also with several peculiarities.
Cave of Antiparos
Beyond the wonderful country with the castle and the dreamy beaches with the fantastic waters of the Aegean, Antiparos has an amazing cave. The impressive cave of the island, which is among the most important in the whole world.
Its importance lies not only in the fact that it is one of the most magical and impressive natural attractions, but also in the fact that it is inextricably linked to the history of the island, while it also hides a rich archaeological interest due to finds dating back to the Stone Age , which have been found inside it.
Sanctuary of Apollo
The Sanctuary of Apollo and Artemis are located on the uninhabited islet of Despotiko and is a unique case in the Aegean area, since according to the excavations, there is a unique intact archaic sanctuary, in honor of the god Apollo, which operated from the 7th century BC. as well as the Roman years.
Historical and Folklore Museum
The Historical and Folklore Museum located on the main pedestrian street of Chora.. The cultural exhibits constitute single sets of particular historical and scientific value for Antiparos and the wider region. With a sense of responsibility, the people of KEDA aim to protect and save from annihilation, genuine treasures of our historical and cultural heritage, to highlight and show them to local and foreign visitors, through various cultural activities.
The islet of Despotiko
The unknown, amazingly beautiful island with intense archaeological interest hides beaches of incredible beauty. Access to the uninhabited islet is daily by private boat or boat from Ai George. The Despotiko, which will become an open museum on the standards of Delos, with the marble archaic sanctuary of Apollo as its focus, is worth exploring and swimming in the idyllic beaches of Panagia, Plakakia and Livadi with unique crystal clear waters and silver sand.
Beaches
Antiparos, despite its small size, is blessed with a number of beautiful beaches that cater to a variety of tastes. The island’s beaches are renowned for their crystalline waters, golden sands, and the serene atmosphere they offer.
Antiparos boasts numerous other small coves and beaches, many of which are accessible only by boat. The island’s charm lies not just in its popular spots, but also in these hidden gems waiting to be discovered.
No matter where you choose to lay your towel, the beaches of Antiparos promise pristine waters, relaxing atmospheres, and plenty of opportunities to bask in the Grecian sun. Whether you’re a solo traveler, couple, or family, there’s a beach in Antiparos that’s perfect for you.
Just a 5-minute walk away, there are the Psaralykes, the first and the second, two organized beaches with golden sand, sunbeds with umbrellas but also with natural shade from tamarisk trees and beach bars. Panagia stretches out into a large bay with crystal clear waters and pebbles.
Sifneiko (or Sunset Beach) is just 500m away. from the central square of the Settlement, it enchants for the clear waters, with terraces ideal for gazing , the gaze reaches as far as Sifnos, from where it got its name. One of the best beaches in Antiparos.
Moving around
For your transportation in Antiparos, there are radio taxis as well as municipal public transport buses departing from the port. Accordingly, movement in Chora is done either by bicycle and motorbike, or on foot. The distances are short and most of the shops in the center of the square are nearby.
Whichever way you choose to explore Antiparos, you can see everything within a day in less than 20 minutes by car from one end of the island to the other. For those who are familiar with two wheels, you can rent a scooter as the best option to get around Antiparos.
The mileage is low, the climbs are never demanding and the limited cost compared to the car makes it an almost unbeatable choice.
How to get to Antiparos
By Air
Most international travelers arrive in Athens, the capital of Greece, at the Eleftherios Venizelos International Airport (ATH). Athens has direct flights to Paros National Airport (PAS) which are operated by several domestic airlines. The flight is about 30 minutes long.From Paros you can get to antiparos by boat.
By Ferry
Ferries to Paros depart from Piraeus, the main port of Athens, and also from Rafina, another port closer to the airport. The journey can take anywhere from 3 to 4 hours, depending on the type of ferry.
Getting to Antiparos from Paros
By Local Ferry from Pounta:
Pounta is on the western side of Paros and is closer to Antiparos. Ferries from Pounta to Antiparos run frequently (approximately every 30 minutes in the high season). The ferry ride is short, about 7 minutes. You can get to Pounta from other parts of Paros by bus or taxi.