Antiparos Is the Final Hidden Gem Island in Greece — Methods to Go to

Relating to Greek islands, Mykonos and Santorini are virtually assured to be on the itinerary. The party-centric playground of the Cyclades and its endlessly photogenic large sibling have endeared themselves to thousands and thousands of vacationers through the years. It additionally helps that, logistically talking, each locations are accessible by way of ferry and airplane, and make for a very good base for hopping round.

However for those who’re to discover past the well-trodden path and expertise a less-touristy facet of the Cyclades, contemplate Antiparos. Regardless of its proximity to Paros — which is on observe to change into a sizzling spot due to Instagrammable Naoussa and new resorts 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 every little thing continues 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 buddies. Cool in an easy approach, it’s a spot the place the jet set decamps for a weeklong keep in a whitewashed villa that’s solely accessible by a mud highway and in-the-know day trippers come from close by islands to decelerate even additional.

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

Greatest Inns 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 reap the benefits of the spectacular environment.

The Rooster

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

One other Island

On the lookout for a bit of further quietude? Intimate, serene, and providing beautiful views, One other Island sits atop a hill overlooking the bay of St. George and Despotiko. All 5 conventional Cycladic houses have been lovingly restored with reverence to the previous and a watch on the current. Count on whitewashed minimalism, outside swimming pools, and panoramic sweeps.

Kouros Village

Want to remain inside strolling distance of eating places and retailers? Kouros Village sits proper by the harbor. “It’s a bit extra easy, however snug with fashionable decor and an out of doors 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 shopping 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 out of doors pool, and sleeps 10 in model.

Greatest Issues to Do

Boat Day

A number of the prettiest elements of Antiparos are greatest accessed from the water. Chartering a personal boat permits for exploring the varied 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 associated fee.

Faneromeni Seaside

A wildly stunning choice for adventurers and tranquility seekers alike, Faneromeni Seaside is a small cove that’s reachable by a rocky, uneven filth highway (a few 20-minute drive from city). It’s with out facilities, so be sure you carry drinks, snacks, towels, and umbrellas — mainly every little thing 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 (carry your individual 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 road, do some purchasing, 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 Historical 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’ve got 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 right place to seize a low-slung desk, order a cocktail or fresh-pressed juice, and share just a few plates of corn ribs, tuna tostadas, and butterfly-grilled fish with buddies.

Kalokeri

“The homeowners of Kalokeri are super-welcoming and actually care about service,” says Favre. The dishes style genuine to the Aegean area, but it surely’s extra upscale than taverna-style meals (suppose: artfully plated pink mullet tartare and dolmadakia with wine leaves. The wine record is great, 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 embody the pink shrimp tartare with crumbled hazelnut and char siu Greek pork.

Zombos

At Zombos, the main focus is on contemporary components. 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 welcoming, Taverna Yorgis is a family-run institution that treats diners like outdated buddies. The selfmade 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. Based on 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 stunning time to go to.

Methods to Get There

Most individuals take the ferry from Parikia — the primary port on Paros — but it surely’s truly 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.

Methods to Get Round

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