Kythira lies at the crossroads between the seas of the Ionian and Crete, in the Mediterranean's deepest and seemingly most impassable crossing. The afternoon humidity that mysteriously envelops the island and veils.its beauty, in its own way, serves to shield against the evil eye.
With tales from yesteryear, numerous would-be conquerors, myths and customs, Kythira has a beat on the pulse of the traveler. Shades of purple-green, scenic villages, exquisite local dishes, and engaging churches serve as a backdrop for journeys to any of its over 60 villages.
In the 1700s, the French were among the first to set foot on Kythira. Renowned painter Jean Antoine Watteau found inspiration among young lovers who boarded galleys destined for the shores of Kythira. Watteau painted the masterpiece "Pilgrimage to Cythera" in 1717, and it remains a lasting depiction of this dreamland of spiritual delight. To this day, nothing comes close to portraying this unique island's character.
Agia Pelayia, Kapsali, and Platia Amos are must-sees. The sun sets just beyond Chora, best viewed counting the waves at Kapsali with a Banda Landra cocktail close by. Gaze upward and you will be rewarded with a breathtaking view of the Castle of Avlemonas, perched precariously along a steep rock. The Venetian castle is a visual delight, and a testimony to Greece's history and culture. Kythira is tailor made for the traveler who loathes mass tourism, crowded beaches, and restaurants. Life here is simple and easy going, in harmony with a natural world that is unassuming. Little by little, Kythira reveals its mystery and allure, all the while leaving room for new discoveries.